Rio de Janeiro Girl Guide

By Avril David. Life is beautiful. Ahh, Rio de Janeiro. Upon landing you'll hear that song in your head..."At the Copa...Copacabana, the da-da-da-da-da...ana."

In your jet-lagged reverie, Rio will knock you off your feet.  You can dance the night away. Ogle the beautiful people. Traipse through what's left of the Amazon's pristine rainforest. Or discover your own hideaway and watch the world go by on a sugar-soft white sand beach.

You'll step into a world that is a vibrant mix of traditions, where European, African and Native American religions, cultures and people combine to create a rich way of life.  This melange encompasses ancient and modern architecture, exquisite music and fashion. There's samba, capoeira, a martial-arts dance form created by slaves brought to Brazil and soccer mania.  Brazil's economy is the largest in South America and in recent years the country has become a major economic force on the global scene.

Our 5-day itinerary takes you on a fun-filled, but laid back holiday. Go hiking up Corcovado to the Christ Redeemer Statue. Hit the beaches, Ipanema and Copacabana. You have to see a soccer (futbol) game at Maracana Stadium.  Explore Santa Teresa, an artsy, bohemian colonial district and Niteroi, which houses Rio's Contemporary Museum of Art.