cariocas are all about

cariocas are all about
BLUMAR
INCOMING TOUR OPERATOR
RIO DE JANEIRO
MAP
Engenhao
stadium
Prainha
Paineiras
Urca
Gávea
Parque
da Catacumba
Forte
Copacabana
2
living &
dancing
04-06
cariocas
sports
eating &
drinking
outdoor
activities
07-09
10-12
13-15
— as the inhabitants of Rio de
Janeiro are widely known — know how to best take ad-
seasonal
festivities
16-18
“Don’t’
leave Rio
without…”
vantage of the Marvelous City in which they live. The wide
variety of scenery such as the beaches, a lagoon, forests,
and mountains make up their daily lives and influence their
lifestyle in various ways. Blumar presents some of the best
“carioca” suggestions for exclusive tours in Rio.
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Best souveniRs
When going back home, do
not forget to pack some of
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the city’s best souvenirs
living & dancing
Cariocas are all about... living and dancing. The happy and relaxed nature of cariocas is well known,
and not without reason. Cariocas know how to live and enjoy their city and manage to find a way to enjoy
themselves anywhere, while taking in the best the city has to offer in terms of music, history, and overall culture,
whether they are alone or with somebody else!
AMENO RESEDA MUSIC HALL
Casarao Ameno Reseda opened its doors in March 2012 inside a two-story 19th-century
corner building. With “joy, music, and gastronomy” as its slogan, the new spot in the historic
Catete district is part restaurant, part live music venue. On the first floor of the attractive restaurant you will find a range of authentic Brazilian appetizers such as codfish croquettes, pies and
escondidinhos (casseroles). On the second floor, first-rate Brazilian musicians like Elsa Soares
frequent the stage.
Tour Capacity: 1 to 30 pax | Duration: 4 hours | Venue Capacity: 250 people
photo: Adriana Brant
ART GALLERIES (Moreira Salles Institute + Anita Schwartz)
The Moreira Salles Institute is a beautiful cultural center which contains an archive of more than
80,000 photographs, many depicting the old streets of Rio as well as the urban development
of other Brazilian cities over the last two centuries. It also hosts impressive exhibitions, often
photo: Alexandre Macieira | RioTur
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showcasing the works of some of Brazil’s best photographers and artists. The gardens, complete
with artificial lake and flowing river, were designed by Brazilian landscape architect Burle Marx.
This tour is combined with a visit to the Anita Schwartz Art Gallery, a bold architectural statement in Gavea. Featuring exhibitions by heavyweights from the world of Brazilian art as well as
breakthrough newcomers, the gallery regularly hosts meetings and talks by curators, collectors
and guest artists alike.
Tour Capacity: 1 to 6 pax | Duration: 4 hours
photo: Rodrigo Lopes
BAR CRAWL
Going on a Bar crawl is the most exciting way to party like a Carioca while touring the cool and
well known bars frequented by locals. We will hit up to 3 popular bars within walking distance
with 2 complimentary draft beers at each stop. Please note that the bars are very popular and
seating availability may be limited.
Tour capacity: 2 to 6 pax | Duration: 3 hours
RIO SCENARIUM
There is no other place in Rio that embodies the spirit of the cariocas more than the nightlife
scene in the neighborhood of Lapa. Come right to the heart of the action in one of the best clubs
in Lapa, Rio Scenarium, an unusual bar, which is a mix between an antique shop and an auction
room, where the locals come to listen to traditional Brazilian jazz and samba.
Duration: approximately 4 hours | Rio Scenarium is closed on Sundays and Mondays |
Dinner is not included.
PERCUSSION CLASS AT FUNDICAO PROGRESSO
In these percussion classes, offered at the historical Fundicao Progresso (Lapa), young people
and adults learn the origins, rhythm, songs and dances of Maracatu de Baque Virado, as well
as the nuances of Samba, Coco and Ciranda. Instructors are proficient in English, French and
Spanish.
Tour Capacity: 10 to 30 pax | Duration: 4 hours
photo: Viviane Fernandes
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SANTA TERESA ARTIST STUDIOS
Feel the spirit of Santa Teresa by visiting the studios of artists who have elected this idyllic Rio de
Janeiro neighborhood as a place to expand their creativity. On this route, you’ll visit three artists
that live and work in Santa Teresa and see their work while visiting their studios and chatting
about art, their creative process, techniques, the art market and a lot more.
Capacity: 1 to 20 pax | Duration: 4 hours
| OBS: Not available on Sundays.
photo: Marcio Macedo
Guided historical tour by professor Milton Teixeira with Afternoon tea
This is a unique walking tour which gives visitors a feeling for the legends and stories woven
throughout Rio. During this truly fantastic experience you will be guided by Professor Milton
Teixeira, whose expertise of Rio de Janeiro and its history will give a wholly unique perspective
to your visit. Locales on your itinerary reflect a variety of Rio’s cultural mainstays, ending with a colonial
afternoon tea at the Colombo Coffee Shop or at the neo French Cultural Mansion, Julieta de Serpa.
Capacity: 1 to 20 pax | Duration: approximately 4 hours | Tour is scheduled according
to availability of Professor Milton Teixeira.
photo: RioTur
SHOPPING TOUR WITH A PERSONAL SHOPPER
Go where the Cariocas go; shop where they shop! Being a city known for its beauty and fashion,
Rio de Janeiro hosts a wide variety of street markets, shopping malls and clothing stores, all of
which reflect the iconic style and culture of the Cidade Maravilhosa. Benefit from the personal
assistance of a fashion expert, taking you to the most upscale boutiques in town; with the support of a skilled consultant to enhance your wardrobe, creating multiple looks according to your
style and personality.
Tour capacity: 1 to 4 pax | Duration: 4 hours
SOCCER MATCH AT ENGENHAO STADIUM IN A PRIVATE BOX
Enjoy the opportunity to live and watch a lively football match for the Brazilian First Division.
Experience the fanaticism with which Brazilians embrace this sport and watch the skillful soccer
players who contribute to a rich and exciting Brazilian soccer game.
Tour capacity: 1 to 30 pax | Duration: 4 hours | Private boxes available for groups.
photo: Pedro kirilos | RioTur
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sports
Living in and being surrounded by a setting of beaches, mountains and forests, the people in Rio recognize the
city’s natural inclination for a wide range of sports, and they always find a way of fitting it into their day-to-day
schedule. Waking up early for a short swim in the ocean before work, a quick bike ride or jog at the end of the
day or playing soccer on the weekends are all things that are very much in the carioca lifestyle. Cariocas lack
neither options nor motivation for enjoying the outdoors!
Beach Soccer
The beach is a hotspot for socializing with Cariocas - Rio’s natives. Friends and families get
together on the beach to swim, chat, read and play sports. One of these sports is beach soccer,
a sport played barefoot and with a variety of players, making it a very friendly game in which everybody gets a chance to participate. Private lessons can be arranged for individuals or groups.
Tour Capacity: 1 to 6 pax | Duration: 45 minutes
photo: RioTur
Skateboard Lessons
Enjoy the most beautiful views in Rio on 4 wheels. During one and a half hours of private lessons
learn the techniques, balance training, and the perfection of skateboard maneuvers along the
edge of Lagoa Rodrigo Freitas or in Arpoador, where you can find the best “bowls” in Zona Sul.
Tour Capacity: 1 to 6 pax | Duration: 1h30min
photo: RioTur
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Kite Surfing Lessons
The beauty of Rio’s natural settings and ideal wind conditions come together to create the
ultimate kite surfing adventure in one of the world’s most dramatic urban kite destinations. Both
beginners and advanced riders will enjoy the variety of kite conditions that make Rio the perfect
place to learn kite surfing.
Tour Capacity: 5 to 10 pax | Duration: 1h | Restrictions: Giant waves and strong
winds. Must be a strong swimmer.
photo: RioTur
Sailing Lessons at Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
Enjoy beautiful landscapes while learning sailing skills aboard dingue boats on the calm waters of
Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon. Private lessons are available for 30 min. or 1hr. The tour ends with
some refreshing exotic Amazonian fruit juice at the trendy Palaphitas Kitch kiosk.
Tour Capacity: 1 to 12 (There are 4 dingue sail boats. 3 pax per boat) | Duration: 2h
Footvolley & Beach Volleyball Lessons on Ipanema Beach
Enjoy these national pastimes with private volleyball or footvolley lessons on the world-famous
Ipanema Beach. Beach volleyball, dominated by Brazil internationally, consists of just two players per team, providing considerable fun and exercise! Exciting and fast-paced, footvolley is a
truly Brazilian sport, combining the format of volleyball with the skills of soccer. Footvolley allows
players to use only their heads, feet and chests.
Tour Capacity: 1 to 6 pax | Duration: 45 minutes
photo: RioTur
Slackline Lessons
With a radical profile and the mark of fun, slackline is the new “fever” of the carioca summer.
During the first classes, students get some idea of body control and, with time, can walk from
one side to the other. Progression in the activity, which is similar to tight rope walking, is normally
quick. Soon, after a week, students can already make their first walks across the strip confidently
with plenty of motivation to learn more advanced maneuvers in the future.
Tour Capacity: 1 to 6 pax | Duration: 2 hours
photo: RioTur
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Stand-up Paddle Boarding Lessons at Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
Stand-up paddle boarding has become a popular carioca pastime, as it is easily accessible to
a wide range of ages due to the fact that stand-up boards are larger with more balance and
stability than surfboards. Riders propel and steer themselves with a long-shafted paddle, and
use different strokes to help them turn and accelerate. Join a 1-hour private Stand-up paddle
boarding class on the calm waters of Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon.
Tour Capacity: 1 to 8 pax | Duration: 1h
photo: RioLife
Surf Lessons
Rio’s long coast offers many wonderful areas for surfing and beach breaks, providing ideal
conditions to learn how to surf with ease and safety. Arpoador, Barra da Tijuca and Prainha are
some of the best options for lessons and no previous experience is required. The instructors are
prepared either to teach beginners or to assist experienced surfers.
Tour Capacity: 1 to 8 pax | Duration: 1h
Wakeboarding Lessons at Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
When done right, wakeboarding is a hearty workout not only for your body but also your sense
of balance. This kind of setting also delivers a good dose of emotional pep as well. On Lagoa
Rodrigo de Freitas, experienced teachers offer private lessons both for those who have never set
foot on a board and those wanting to nail a perfect 360.
Tour Capacity: 1 to 6 pax | Duration: 1h
photo: RioTur
Windsurfing Lessons
In this windsurfing class for beginners guests will learn the basics of the sport, including board
maneuvering, equipment use, water safety and some information regarding the Olympic Races.
The class is given by experienced professionals who employ techniques used in the most advanced windsurfing schools and who are thus equipped to teach even the bravest of students.
Tour Capacity: 1 to 6 pax | Duration: 1h
photo: RioTur
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eating & drinking
Savoring some good food and a good drink is a pleasure that human beings appreciate in any part of the world.
Be it while traveling or in the city in which you were born, sharing a table with friends or family is an occasion
that can be made special even during your day-to-day life. And in Rio, this is no different, as the city is home
to a variety of food capable of charming all palates.
Baixo Gavea - Bohemian night life
To enjoy a more contemporary party atmosphere stop by Baixo Gávea located in the heart of
Zona Sul. The bars in this exclusive neighborhood are the preferred watering holes amongst
Rio’s college population due to its proximity to one of the city’s most elite universities. Whereas
lapa is the perfect spot to dance the night away, Baixo Gávea is undoubtedly the best place to
meet and greet the young and the beautiful of Rio de Janeiro and, perhaps, even practice your
Portuguese. Sundays and Wednesdays reign as the hottest nights to see and be seen in Baixo
Gávea.
Capacity: 1 to 12 pax | Duration: approximately 3 hours
Bar urca
Do as the locals do and enjoy your beer outside along the sidewalk while taking in the sights
around urca. Here you’ll get one of the best views in Rio: Christ the Redeemer, the São João
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fort, and Sugarloaf all framed by Guanabara Bay. After relaxing among the scenery, enjoy a
meal on the bar’s second floor. Sought-after plates include meat, fish, seafood, appetizers such
as cod croquettes, fried sardine with cheese, meat, shrimp, pastries, potpies; and black bean,
shrimp, and seafood broths. Beer, wine, cachaça, and mixed drinks are served.
Capacity: 1 to 8 pax | Duration: 4 hours
Brazilian Culinary Experience
This tour offers guests the opportunity to experience how the incredibly mixed Brazilian culture
has affected the country’s diverse cuisine. In a relaxed environment, participants will have a
hands-on experience with Brazil’s rich cuisine, including a chance to prepare national dishes,
drinks and desserts. Clients will be invited to learn recipes, prepare drinks and in the end eat what
they’ve learned! Lessons are 3-4 hours long, during which time the chef welcomes “students”
into her kitchen for the hands-on experience, ending in a delicious sampling of the dishes prepared by the students under the chef’s guidance.
Capacity: 1 to 60 pax | Duration: 6 hours | Not available on Sundays.
Cachaça Tasting
Cachaça is the best-selling sugarcane spirit in Brazil. Made from distilled sugar cane juice it is
the basis of the national drink of Brazil the caipirinha. Before lunch, a cachaça expert will take
you on a tasting experience of this amazing liquor, guiding novices & connoisseurs alike through
the proper evaluation techniques for this fine spirit.
Capacity: 1 to 30 pax | Duration: 4 hours
photo: RioTur
Cipriani Chef’s Table
Located in the heart of the Cipriani restaurant’s kitchen, at Copacabana Palace, the Chef’s Table
is a unique gastronomic experience. Guests closely follow Chef Nicola Finamore as he prepares
an array of dishes inspired by the day’s freshest ingredients. The Chef’s Table offers diners an
unlimited number of dishes, all expertly paired by the restaurant’s sommelier. With only six seats
available, this is one of the most exclusive fine-dining adventures in Rio. Guests will receive a
personalized menu signed by the chef.
Capacity: 2 to 6 pax | Duration: 3 hours
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Early Arrival in Rio – Breakfast at the Botanical Garden
Upon arrival at Rio de Janeiro Airport, meet your local guide and take private transportation
to your hotel. Since check-in is not until after 2:00pm, the hotel stop is just for dropping off
luggage and getting changed. Your local guide will take you inside the Botanical Garden for a
typical “Carioca” breakfast to recover from the long flight in the perfect setting for a pleasant
breakfast, surrounded by nature on all sides. With a large variety of breads, fruits and juices, the
location enchants visitors with its rustic decoration and special attention to its clients, so much
so that each table even has its own toaster. After breakfast, a walk through the Botanic Garden’s
promenades is always a good choice.
Capacity: 1 to 4 pax | Duration: 4 hours | OBS: Service starts at 10 A.M.
photo: La Bicyclette
Bar Astor
Bar Astor is a frequent after-work option for cariocas during the week and an after-beach option
on weekends. Located in one of the most charming beachfront addresses next to Arpoador, the
beautiful view of the beach enchants even those accustomed to the city. Famous for its ‘chopp’
(draft beer) and delicious dishes, the house, which just recently opened in Rio (2010), is already
a favorite and is always packed. If you do not want to wait a long time in line, it is good to arrive
before 9pm.
Feijoada Feast
One of the first answers that comes to mind when someone asks “What is the typical Brazilian dish?” is, inevitably, feijoada. And in Rio de Janeiro, this dish is given all of the attention it
deserves. On any given Saturday, most restaurants offer a tantalizing feast of feijoada, a dish of
slowly cooked pork and sausage stewed in black beans and served with an array of delicious
sides including rice, collard greens, farofa (toasted mandioc flour), and cracklings, among others.
All of the flavors in this dish combine to create a hearty and distinct taste of Brazilian tradition that
cannot be missed. In Rio, some of the best places to try Brazil’s national dish are Casa da Feijoada, Confeitaria Colombo (on Saturdays), Bar do Mineiro, and the Atlantis at the Sofitel Hotel.
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outdoor activities
Cariocas are all about... outdoor activities. Relax among views that will take your breath away, paying
attention to the noise of birds and cicadas at the end of the day and feel the pure air of preserved forests. All
of these sensations allow a greater, more fantastic impact in the Marvelous City, which offers outdoor activities
for all nature lovers.
Bike Tour Along the Beachfront
A pleasant tour along one of the world’s most famous beaches. You will have the chance to feel
and observe how the cariocas enjoy their beaches; running, playing soccer and cycling along
the seashore. On Sundays and national holidays one side of the avenue is closed for recreation,
providing extra space for biking and jogging.
Capacity: up to 12 people | Tour Duration: 4h
photo: RioTur
E-Bike Ride by Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
Enjoy a fun Electric Bike ride along Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas on the new Lev Electric bikes, allowing riders to choose between pedaling, electric motor power or both. On this guided tour you
will zip along the 7.5km bike path that surrounds the freshwaters of Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon,
taking in the panoramic views of the city and lagoon as you ride your eco-friendly electric bike
for 90 minutes. Take some time off at Palaphitas Kitch kiosk to sip some exotic fruit juice or a
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refreshing caipirinha made of typical Amazonian ingredients. These cool electric bikes will make
your ride fun, easy, and eco-friendly.
Capacity: upt to 7 pax | Tour Duration: 4h | From Tuesday to Friday: 2 P.M. to 6 P.M.
| Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays: 11 A.M. to 6 P.M. | Not available on Mondays.
Capoeira Presentation + Casual Lessons
Capoeira is a combination of martial arts and Afro-Brazilian dance created by African slaves as
a means of self-defense and mental and physical exercise. Capoeira works all of the body’s
muscles and has grown increasingly popular throughout the world. You can learn this important
Brazilian tradition in a private open air class where you will have the chance to meet Capoeira
group leaders, learn basic fight movements, and try its instruments.
Capacity: 2 to 30 pax | Duration: 4h
photo: RioTur
Eco Adventure at Catacumba Park
Catacumba Park is located in one of the most privileged areas of Rio, at the foot of the Cabritos
Hill, right by the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon. From the top you will have impressive views of
the Lagoon, Ipanema, Leblon, The Botanical Garden and Corcovado Mountain, with the Christ
Statue. Prepare yourself for some adventures. Taking advantage of the lush forest, you will be
able to participate in a: Canopy Walkway, Zip Line, Rappel, Climbing Wall and Environmental
Education. All activities include full equipment, a bilingual guide and personal insurance. Beverages and food are not included.
Capacity: 1 to 15 pax | Duration: 3 hours | Availability: Everyday, except Mondays.
photo: RioTur
Sailboat Cruise
Watch the sunset aboard a private sailing boat along the Guanabara Bay towards Copacabana
beach, one of the most beautiful views in Rio, with Sugar Loaf Mountain towering in the distance.
Pass by the bay’s islands and forts as you cruise the idyllic water, perfect for swimming, and
appreciate a different perspective of Rio... from the sea! Deluxe picnic service on board, including national or French champagne, mineral water, a selection of cheese, cold cuts, Brazilian fruit
preserves, fresh fruits and assorted breads.
Capacity: up to 6 people | Duration: 4h
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Tijuca Forest with Picnic in the Woods
Tijuca Forest is one of the largest urban forest in the world, located in an environmental preserve
in the Atlantic Rainforest and 10 minutes from downtown Rio. During the tour, guests often spot
tropical animals like monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds. We will stop at the Chinese Belvedere to
admire the magnificent views of Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, Guanabara Bay and Sugar
Loaf, ending at the “Emperor’s Table” for a private picnic. On the way back to the hotel, a relaxing
stop at Pepino Beach (in the exclusive Sao Conrado neighborhood) to watch the hang gliders fly
through the air and sip some refreshing coconut water. The picnic in the forest includes: fresh
fruits, juices, coconut water and sandwiches in a private set up.
Capacity: 12 to 30 pax | Duration: 6 hours
Zen Botanical Garden + Yoga
Enjoy a morning tour that combines a 1-hour Yoga session with a visit to the Botanical Garden;
surely one of the most perfect ways to balance your body and soul during your stay in Rio. While
walking along the paths, hearing the birdsong filling the air, one feels at peace. The exuberant
nature shows all its beauty through the colorful and varied flora, creating images that will remain
in the visitor’s mind and soul forever. The session is adapted to each and every person’s skills,
especially beginners, focusing on muscle stretching and strengthening, breathing development,
stimulating the flow of the body’s energy, and ends with a delightful relaxation.
Capacity: 2 to 20 pax | Duration: 4h
photo: Marcio Macedo
Kayaking from Urca and Cotunduba Island
The Ocean Kayaking tour couldn’t be in a better place! You will paddle around the impressive granite rock of Sugar Loaf Mountain, having the whole city of Rio as a backdrop! We will
drive you to Urca beach where we meet our instructor and learn some safety and technical
procedures. Then you will paddle for about 1 hour and 30 minutes through the waters of the
Guanabara Bay. On the itinerary your instructor chooses for you, there will be time to rest, swim
and have a snack before returning to Urca beach and driving back to the hotel.
Capacity: 10 pax | Duration: 4 hours | *Includes: all equipment, snacks, a safety boat,
and stretching before and after the activity.
photo: Rio Hiking
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seasonal festivities
Cariocas are all about... seasonal festivities. Celebrating life, friends, and accomplishments are joyful ways in which cariocas express themselves. With diverse seasonal events happening in the city throughout
the month, you can easily see the source of all this happiness and relaxation.
Art Rio
Based on the premise that Rio de Janeiro is art all the time in every way, Art Rio proposes a new
way of interacting with the city’s visual arts and all its possibilities. With an extensive calendar and
varied art pieces, expositions and circuits, there is no lack of options for enjoying the living collection of art in the Marvelous City. The event, which has occurred in 2011 and 2012, normally
takes place in September.
photo: RioTur
Circuito das Artes do Jardim Botanico
The Botanic Garden Art Circuit is a complete journey though art, made up of artistically rendered
pieces that are framed well along at the feet of Christ the Redeemer, in the charming neighborhood of Jardim Botânico. Open studios, shows, lectures, theater, children’s art workshops, in
addition to a delicious journey through the area’s gastronomic scene, all make the event the
perfect opportunity to live an authentic carioca experience. The circuit, which has been going on
since 1996, has already been deemed as an irreplaceable fixture on the city’s annual cultural
calendar. For this reason, it is good to get organized beforehand as to not miss the date! The
2012 installment took place in August.
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Leblon Jazz Festival
Rio is the City of Samba and often lacks regular venues for jazz musicians. Notwithstanding, the
Leblon Jazz Festival has taken over the scene, offering lovers of good music the perfect option for enjoying Rio. Taking place on one of the most well-known streets in the neighborhood
(Dias Ferreira), also especially recognized for its great gastronomy, the festival is a privilege that
cariocas have enjoyed since 2007. In addition to new talents and excellent national artists, the
Festival receives internationally coveted artists, such as the Ethiopian Mulatu Astke (in 2012).
The cultural installation normally lasts 3-4 days in diverse locales along the street and in the surrounding area where the public can appreciate various shows. The festival dates change every
year, so it is good to look it up beforehand. In 2011 it was in May, and in 2012, in November.
photo: Leblon Jazz Festival
Música no Museu [Music in the Museum]
For classical music lovers, Rio de Janeiro is the main stage for the project entitled “Music in the
Museum.” The project was created in 1997 and since then has grown, attracting more and more
fans from throughout the country and outside of Brazil, as there have also been shows in Paris
and Lisbon. The majority of the concerts are done by pianists, but the current repertoire includes
shows with harps, flutes, percussion, among others. Young musicians gain a space with the opportunity to present themselves in prestigious locations for an attentive public. Delight yourself
with diverse options of cultured music performed in over 40 museums and venues that make
up the initiative, with various choices of days and schedules during the selected month (which
can vary from year to year).
Santa Teresa de Portas Abertas
Santa Teresa in and of itself is one of the main attractions in Rio de Janeiro. With its pioneering
Arte de Portas Abertas (Open Door Art) annual event, it becomes even more inviting. In addition
to the artists who open their studios to guests, the event is known to have various musical shows,
many of which are unplanned and are announced as they’re happening, which is how many
things in this neighborhood occur. The event organizor normally publishes a map containing a
list of places to visit, studios, gastronomical areas, leisure activities, stores and participating social
projects. Get the most out of your trip to Rio by experiencing one of the most packed events
on the carioca cultural calendar.
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Samba School Rehearsal
No other music is more “Brazilian” than samba, and no samba is more authentic than the
rhythms of “samba schools”. Visit one of these samba schools as they open their samba hall for
rehearsals (a combination of a party and a pep rally), in preparation for the upcoming Carnival.
The percussion and ecstatic crowd will have you moving your feet in no time.
Tour Capacity: 1 to 20 pax | Duration: approximately 3 hours | OBS: Samba school
Rehearsals start on the third Saturday of October and finish the first week of January.
photo: Cláudia Silva | Riotur
Carnival Like a Native
Enjoy Carnaval like a Rio native! This unique tour allows guests to celebrate Carnival like the
Cariocas, with all the excitement and thrill of a huge party. You will be the guest of honor at one
of the final rehearsals before heading out. Participants receive their own Carnival costume and
head to Rio Branco Avenue in the center of the city where the huge parade will take place. Finally,
on the day of the parade, head to the Sambadrome with a guide, for what promises to be one
of the most exciting days ever.
Tour Capacity: 2 to 20 pax (since costume purchases are limited to only one parade
section) | Duration: 2h (which is amount of time it takes to get ready and parade in
the Sambadrome)
Festa Junina
Although traditionally associated with the northeast region of the country, festas juninas occur
throughout all of Brazil with variations between states. In Rio de Janeiro, for example, the festival
is so popular that it extends beyond the month of June into July. The festa junina is the perfect
place to get a taste of traditional Brazilian food and culture. People come dressed in caipira
costumes (similar to country or farm style), an assortment of checkered shirts, straw hats, braids
and bows for women, and painted freckles. Favorite foods include canjica (a hot dish made
with sweet corn, milk, and cinnamon), grilled sausage, candied apple, cocada (a candy made of
coconut), paçoca (a ground peanut dessert), among other unique dishes. The main events at any
festa junina are sure to include music and dance, particularly the quadrilha, a traditional group
dance revolving around the celebration of a mock couple’s wedding. With food and dance, these
festivities are the perfect way to experience Brazilian tradition.
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DON’T LEAVE RIO WITHOUT…
The typical carioca beach ritual is topped off by ordering
a cup of açaí at a local juice bar such as Bibi Sucos. While
sitting at the bar with a cup of the blended frozen fruit, beachgoers cool down and catch up with friends.
A trip to the beach is not complete without stopping at one
of the many kiosks. Here, cariocas sit and people watch while
rehydrating with some fresh coconut water.
Locals recognize that one of the best ways to end a day at
the beach is to appreciate the sunset in Arpoador. Young couples and beachgoers relax and enjoy the atmosphere seated
among rocks and the ocean and watch the show.
Street markets such as the one in Copacabana or the Hippie Fair in Ipanema are known as some of the best places to
buy souvenirs and support local artists. Home-made artisanal
crafts make these open air markets the best place to find
one-of-a-kind objects.
Any Brazilian’s favorite foods are sure to include pão de
queijo (cheese-filled bread) and brigadeiros (a cocoa and
condensed milk treats). Pão de queijo and coffee are a typical snack, and the brigadeiro is a much-loved and comforting
dessert.
Locals best appreciate the rhythm of the city by strolling
along the beach and relaxing while enjoying some coffee or
tea at the Copacabana Fort. The Fort, located near Post 6 at
the end of the beach, is closed on Mondays and charges an
entry fee.
BEST SOUVENIRS When going back home, do not forget to pack some of the city’s best souvenirs
photo: Riotur
Pair
of Havaianas
Bottle
of cachaça
photo: Embratur
Package
of coffee
Guaraná
Soda
A
canga
Handmade
artcraft
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