Rio De Janeiro, BRAZIL
Airing Date: May 9th, 2005
Rio would have to be one of the most distinctive cities in the world, with Sugar Loaf Mountain on one end and the Hill of Corcorvado on the other.
Located on Corcorvado is the statue Cristo Redentor, which stands 30 metres tall and is the second biggest statue of Christ in the world and a very prominent feature in this city. At night, the brightly lit statue is visible from all over the city. One of Christ's arms points toward the beach and the other to Maracan. The statue of Christ the Redeemer pays homage to Rio's religious fervour and has become a symbol of the City and its people, receiving all visitors with its arms open.
A fantastic way to experience this city is from the air in a hang glider. You can take a tandem flight from Pedro Bonita for around $150. You'll glide over the city at a height of 500 metres and land on the beach.
Along with religion, Cariocas (the Brazilian name for those who live in Rio) are obsessed with their beaches and two of the most famous are Copacabana and Ipanema.
Copacabana is probably the most famous beach in the world. Wedged on a strip of land at the foot of the most dramatic hills in Rio de Janeiro, there's always something happening on the beach during the day, including fute volley (like beach volley ball using feet) and, on the sidewalks at night, drinking, singing, eating and all kinds of people checking out the scene.
Ipanema Beach gives foreign visitors a sense of life in Rio, displaying a cross-section of lifestyles, chic boutiques and eateries and luxurious apartment buildings.
Ipanema is one of the most privileged areas of Rio and the beach reflects that atmosphere. It's very much the fashionable place to see and be seen. Trendsetting has always been part of this beach - it was here the g-string (fio dental) dental floss bikini and topless bathing was invented.
But in this city where Christ actually looks over the city, there is another religion - football (soccer)! Maracana still remains the biggest football stadium in the world, holding the record for the biggest crowd ever (in excess of 20,000 people) and the whole stadium vibrates like no other when those fanatical fans start cheering. There are matches on every weekend and they take their game very, very seriously. The Rio league is the second oldest league in Brazil; Sao Paulo's is the oldest.
Further information:
Unlimited Travel and Lan Airlines will fly you to Rio from $2949 ex east coast & $3549 ex west coast, twin share.
Prices include charges/taxes. Subject to exchange rate. Conditions apply.
Includes return flights, 4 nights accommodation, transfers and city tour.
Unlimited Travel: Ph. 1300 668 241
www.un-limitedtravel.com.
Prices correct at 09/05/05.
