Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, or simply Rio, is first and foremost a city that resonates with a passion for the good things in life. The Sugarloaf Mountain is the gateway to the Guanabara Bay, where waters filled with green islands and sailboats embrace sun-soaked beaches. Christ the Redeemer watches over the entire town, while people bask in the sunshine at the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. The urban appeal of its museums, theaters, historic sites, restaurants and star-studded nightlife are balanced by its natural, majestic attractions, with opportunities for everything from hiking through Tijuca Forest to sailing, hang-gliding, surfing and rock climbing. A city where streets parties are common, Rio charms with its vivacity, vibrant culture and relaxed attitude. Music is the very soul of Rio, its live music venues, bars and clubs hosting lively dance parties to the tune of samba, bossa nova, and other regional styles, as well as rock, hip-hop and funk. The Carnival is by far Rio's most anticipated annual fete, with its costumes and colorful floats. There are other occasions to celebrate too, with events like the Festas Juninas, the Réveillon and the Flamengo soccer match at the top of the list.