This is my 7^th trip to Abadiania. I always spend a few days in Rio de Janeiro (or somewhere in Brazil) FIRST to have a bit of a vacation. While Rio de Janeiro has gotten considerably more expensive in the last 4 years (a combination of rising prices and a falling dollar), it is still less expensive than in the US and much less expensive than Western Europe or the UK. Go to the page for “Rio” for more information.

Ipanema and Leblon are two food areas to stay in Rio de Janeiro. Copacabana is fine, and that is where most tourists go. Ipanema and Leblon are nicer areas of Rio and more expensive, but with they are safer, have less prostitution, and have a more interesting group of tourists than Copacabana.

Rio de Janeiro has only a small number of historical and colonial buildings. You would go there more for the fun of experience Rio and its samba feel. There are beautiful sites such as going to the top of Sugar Loaf, or the top of Corcovado (where a huge statue of Jesus looks down on all rio). There are day trips to beautiful beaches and islands. You can take tours to the urban Atlantic rainforest around Corcovado; or tours to the favelas (the famous slums of Rio). People have a wonderful sensuality and comfort with their bodies. The beaches are good, and its just fun to walk around, eat, and experience the feel of Rio. With you want more of the historical aspects of Brazil, or secluded beaches, there are better places to go in Brazil. Yes Rio has crime (it’s avoidable if you follow the rules any guide book will tell you about), and traffic, and poverty. But for all its flaws, I just love being in Rio.