Carioca Life: A Guide To Rio de Janeiro

Online, November 17, 2009 (Newswire.com) - Rio de Janeiro, known throughout the world for its spectacular natural scenery and carnival atmosphere, is a city with over 400 years of history. A former capial of the Portugese Empire during the Napoloenic invasion of the Iberian Peninsula, Rio was Brazil's first capital city after independence, until the construction of Brasilia in 1960. It therefore remains one of the most important cultural and economic centres of Brazil- often setting the cultural trends become a part of Brazil's exotic image.
A vibrant and diverse metropolis, the bountiful scenery and sights of Rio require time and appreciation- the more discerning traveller will maybe prefer to see how Cariocas (residents of Rio) themselves lead their lives. If you don't speak Portugese, it might be a good idea to hire a specialised guide to make the most of what the city has to offer.
For the arts, Rio has a number of internationally acclaimed collections in museums like the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Modern Arts and the Mosteiro de Sao Bento, showcasing the masterful Brazilian Arte Sacra
An endearing feature of the Rio experience is the mood of the city and its inhabitants. The Carioca cultivates a joy for life which can only been seen when in direct contact with its people. Take the time to stroll the streets and mingle with the locals in bars, on the beaches and in our numerous parks. Cariocas are open and curious and will gladly share their views with you. Whether you stay in a luxury hotel on Ipanema beach, or a smaller budget hostel, you will find the city welcoming you with open arms.
Another interesting place to visit is Petropolis, a city in the mountains 50 kms from Rio where the emperor Peter II had his summer palace built. In the middle of the Serra dos Orgaos Park, Petropolis is still nowadays an important weekend destination for Cariocas and foreigners alike. There are many luxury boutique hotels and inns where you can stay overnight or just have lunch or dinner in their wonderful gardened facilities.
By the seaside there is the colonial village of Paraty, a 17th century port, used to export the gold extracted from the Minas Gerais state, the general mines. This place,located on the shore of the Angra dos Reis Bay, is the starting point for unforgettable boat trips to several green islands located off the coast. History and nature reside there in a tranquil harmony.