PAS 5S: “Cidade Maravilhosa”

Join me, and in this semester you will learn more about tourist attractions in my home country, Brazil. By the end of this series, you will love Brazil as I do, and I am certain that in your next college break your bags will be ready to make a visit! The place I’m depicting in this post is probably the most commonly known place in Brazil and the destination of the majority of tourists. It’s nick name is “Cidade Maravilhosa” translated to The Marvelous City.

The Harbor of Rio de Janeiro is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, and it is known to attract millions of tourists throughout the year. Its bay is a huge expanse of water, which is surrounded by granite rock formations and monoliths which add to the unique striking visual appeal of the area. Though the harbor has also become a massive hub of human activity, from the city of Rio to public beaches such as Copacabana and an active harbor, the natural beauty of the bay remains, and it is clear to any visitors that the region is a true natural spectacle.

As you may know, during the previous semester I wrote my passion blogs about tourists attractions in the city of Rio: feel free to look at those later. In this particular post I am going to briefly describe some of them, so you can have a glimpse or a taste of what you are missing.

Lets start with the most touristic attractions:

• Christ the Redeemer –  One of the seven Wonders of the World, it should be on the top place of everyone that’s visiting the city.

• Sugar Loaf – The second most famous postcard of Rio and it also a must-visit. Go up to the top with a cable car or hike to the first viewpoint that already has an amazing view.
• Ipanema, Leblon and Copacabana Beaches – The best way to spend a hot sunny day in Rio. Right in the heart of the city, it’s a great place to go for a run, bike or just lay back and enjoy the sun and the breeze.

Then, a little bit more local:

• Pedra da Gavea hike – One of the most famous and beautiful hikes in the city, but quite challenging. A 3-hour hike with steep sections. There are epic photo opportunities with 360 views.

• Hand/Paragliding – This will be one of the best experiences you can have in Rio, giving you a freedom sensation
• Go on a helicopter ride – A panoramic flight is sure the best way to see the city. Trust me, you don’t want to miss that.