Rio de Janeiro — Destination Guide: Overview

Despite losing its domestic political and economic prominence decades ago, Rio de Janeiro continues to symbolize Brazil abroad. The city perennially ranks atop the list of destinations for foreign visitors. The biggest attraction by far is the pre-Lenten Carnaval parade, which draws spectators and even participants from around the globe. Rio's beach scene in Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon and Barra de Tijuca is unparalleled in intensity and diversity, with different tribes (yuppies, gays, surfers, foot-volley players, etc.) regularly occupying the same stretches of sand. Lapa, an old bohemian neighborhood near downtown, has reclaimed its title ...

Despite losing its domestic political and economic prominence decades ago, Rio de Janeiro continues to symbolize Brazil abroad. The city perennially ranks atop the list of destinations for foreign visitors. The biggest attraction by far is the pre-Lenten Carnaval parade, which draws spectators and even participants from around the globe. Rio's beach scene in Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon and Barra de Tijuca is unparalleled in intensity and diversity, with different tribes (yuppies, gays, surfers, foot-volley players, etc.) regularly occupying the same stretches of sand. Lapa, an old bohemian neighborhood near downtown, has reclaimed its title as the epicenter of the city's vibrant nightlife. Denizens of culture often snub the beach in favor of the B&Bs in the hillside neighborhood Santa Teresa, next door to Lapa. Rio's urban ecotourism, especially hiking on the jungle-covered hills, is perhaps unparalleled anywhere in the world.

About the Expert

Bill Hinchberger is the founding editor of the online guide BrazilMax and host of BrazilMax Radio. He is also a former correspondent in Brazil for The Financial Times.