How To Visit Rio De Janeiro The Right Way

Have you ever wanted to visit Rio de Janeiro? I’ve got 10 tips to help you visit Brazil the right way! Must-see sites, food and safety tips! #riodejaneiro #traveltips

Have you ever wanted to visit Rio de Janeiro Brazil?

But you’ve heard not so good things about the place?

Or you’d really love to go to the beach but don’t want to be self-conscious?

Well, I’ve been able to go, it was back in 2013 so I’ve got some tips and tricks, sites and restaurants that are must-see sites.

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Must-Sees in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Let’s just start with the most obvious?

Or at least the one you’re probably hearn about in songs.

Copacabana

Yes, it really exists and it is a beautiful area.

On the beach, you’ll find plenty of space to sunbathe or hop in the water.

We did see one spot where you could rend a paddleboard. We almost took advantage of the activity but the only time we had left was the morning before we flew back to the Staes and we didn’t want to fly with wet clothes 🙁

But I hear you asking. Was everyone on the beach in those teeny, tiny, string bikinis?

Nope, not me lol.

Now, I am not, although I’d love to be, a bikini person.

But yes, there were plenty of people on the beach in stereotypical beachwear.

And if you are not like me and would love to have a Brazilian bathing suit you will find shops near the beach to purchase them.

Right outside our hotel was a nightly market in the median. You won’t have any problem finding a Brazilian bathing suit, t-shirt, painting, and many other souvenirs that might strike your fancy.

Impanema

Heard of Impanema? Yup, it’s right there too.

It’s south/east of Copacabana and only a 10-15 minute walk to the other beach.

A fun note, each beach has a unique sidewalk design. Copa is wavy, while Imp is geometric.

Copacabana beach sidewalk with wavy mosaic design.

Impanema beach sidewalk with geometric mosaic design.

Christ the Redeemer

Of course, this would be on the list!

It is probably one of the most recognizable sites in Brazil.

It’s such an amazing place to see in person.

You get to take a cool trolley ride up the mountain and then there is a minimal walk the rest of the way.

It was busy the day we went but we were still able to get great pics so don’t hesitate to go!

Christ the Redeemer. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Sugarloaf Mountain

Maybe not as famous at the above Christ the Redeemer but is definitely a must-see!

Why you may ask?

Because of the great views you’ll get of Rio and its’ surrounding areas!

Not only that but you do get a very cool cable car ride up to the top of the 395 meters mountain.

View from the top of Sugarloaf Mountain in Brazil. Buildings and coastline.

Traditional Steakhouse

Have you ever been to one of these before?

Well, oh my gosh, are you in for a treat if you have not!!!

So, first, let me start by saying that, even if you aren’t a meat-eater or would prefer to have a more balanced meal, it is possible at the Steakhouse.

The cool thing about them is the variation of meats and how they deliver them to you.

They have several different options of steak, chicken, pork and even fish!

And most of them are delivered to your table on a large, handheld skewer. Which they then, specifically to your liking, cut you off your share.

Meaning they are more than happy to give you a little taste or plenty to satisfy your taste buds; a well-cooked portion or just cooked enough slice.

Now, again, for those of you who may not enjoy meat or that much meat, can find a large selection of vegetarian options at one or several islands/bars situated around the restaurant.

And don’t worry, if you love your desserts, they have plenty to choose from!

Safety Tips for Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Watch your valuables.

I know you hear it all the time when you travel, right?!

Well, in all my parents and my years of traveling 40 years our most blatant experience was in Rio.

Mom and I were just talking a walk and exploring the stores and shops and buildings along the beach.

Actually, the beach and the buildings are separated by a large 4/6 lane roadway.

Mom was wearing her small gold cross necklace and a guy on a bike just swiped it right off her neck in plain daylight with people around!

By the time it registered what happened he was long gone!

Since it happened so fast we couldn’t even tell you what he looked like except that he was probably a local Brazilian.

Thankfully mom was o.k., not even a scratch on her neck but it was extremely scary nonetheless.

Unfortunately, it was a necklace that meant a lot to her.

If it had of been costume jewelry she wouldn’t have cared.

There are so many options out there. Go to your local mall, retail store or even shop online (check out QVC and their Diamonique options!) to find a replacement to take with you so you can leave your real jewelry at home.

On your next trip, don’t chance your valuables, get and take along costume jewelry! You won’t regret it!

Solutions:

Your Purse–

You’ll want to look for ones that have splashproof straps and body.

RFID protection for your ids and credit card locks for the pockets.

And how about, as an extra added feature, if the others weren’t enough, an adjustable strap because some times you want/ need to be able to shorten your purse and at other times use it as an over-the-shoulder purse!

Again, if that wasn’t enough, how about making it even better, a detachable strap so that when you sit you can wrap the strap around your seat so it can’t be swiped while you’re enjoying a meal or drink.

Wallets

Now for the men, I’ve always heard you should keep your wallet in your front pocket and your hand on your wallet.

Sound advice.

Pants

Another option, get these great pants with hidden pockets so you can be hands-free too but know your valuables are safe!! And don’t worry, they have them for women too 🙂