Christ in center

Christ in center
Originally uploaded by Kaj Bjurman

This photo shows the contrast in Rio, the beauty, yet the mundane

The Statue of Christ that rises above Rio de Janeiro is definately one of the cultural icons of the modern era. Voted as one of the seven wonders of the modern world, it is recognized the world over as the keeper of Rio de Janeiro. Definately at the top of the list when it comes to things you should see it Rio. I feel it should be on everyone's list of things I want to do before I leave this world. Whether you are Christian, Jewish, Buddhist or Muslim, it is impressive and calls ones heart to peace. If you are visiting this beautiful city and need advice or a place to stay, consult us and we can help you make the most of your trip.

Biggest Party on the Planet

There are many places that make the claim to be the "Biggest Party on the Planet" But if you go by sheer numbers as you should, Copacabana Beach on New Years Eve holds the record, year after year. There is an incredible turnout since it is summer in the southern hemisphere, and Rio de Janeiro is one of the hottest places to be during this time. You cannot believe the number of people in the city of Rio during this time of year. Everyone wants to be on the beach on New Year's Eve. In the afternoon, the native women from Bahia hold court on the beach and build extravagant altars of flowers and stones, dedicated to the goddess "Yemanja" the goddess of the sea. People go there and take flowers and offerings to throw into the ocean, believing the goddess will grant them a safe and prosperous year ahead. Many people stand in line and receive "passas" where one of the priestesses from the northern state of Bahia will cleanse their auras of impurities. Later on, the shore begins to fill with people, mostly dressed in white, as a show of purity, so that the new year may be started clean. It is truly a spectacle, very interesting and exciting, and yes, the biggest party on the planet since over two million people go there to experience it.

Sands on the Beaches of Ipanema

There is just nothing better than sinking your toes into the sand at the beach in Ipanema. No matter the time of day or night, no matter how many people are there to share it. The beach here is picturesque, to say the least. From the rocks on the left extreme in Arpoador, to the rising granite monoliths of Two Brothers (Dois Irmaos). It is framed in an incredible natural setting with islands of stone in the front and sides. It never ceased to amaze me the wealth of beauty that encompasses Rio de Janeiro. I always tell my clients that they should see something different everyday, since there are so many areas to consider. The beaches are but one of the attractions here. There is the Botanical Garden, the Tijuca National Forest, The Vista Chinesa, not to mention the classics, Corcovado and Sugarloaf. As I said, rich in beauty and never enough time to see everything. I always enter into depression when I know I am about to leave...

Where to Stay, Where to Go?

The first thing to think about once you have decided to take a vacation is where to stay. While a lot of people go the standard hotel route, many decide to rent an apartment in Rio. There are the advantages such as privacy and the use of a kitchen. But also you gain a more homey atmosphere and more room to relax. There are so many options in Rio! So many neighborhoods, so many nice beaches and places to stay. It really all depends on your lifestyle and budget. Whether you are a single male and like the action in Copacabana, or a couple who like the tranquility of Leblon, there is something for everyone and we can help you find that perfect place to stay!

No Better Place to Vacation!

When I think of beaches, there are so many choices around the world. But when I think of real vacations, well, I want a places with more than just nice beaches. I want a place that has culture, music, food, mystery and more. That is why I think Rio de Janeiro is just about the perfect place for a vacation. It has all of those things and more! The topography of the land as seen from Corcovado (the Christ statue) is key to understanding how beautiful and diverse this city is. From the beaches to the mountains above, from the restaurants to the clubs, from the beautiful bodies and faces to the energy of the city itself, this is one place that never gets old. Antonio Carlos Jobim, who co-wrote the song, "Girl From Ipanema" said, "There are two kinds of people in the world, those who have been to Rio de Janeiro, and those who haven't!" I know exactly what he meant, and tell my clients that once you go there, you are never the same afterwards!

Tension on the Beach

I have a friend who goes to Rio once a year and spends a month there. He is married to a Brazilian and speaks Portuguese. They always hang out around Posto 9 in Ipanema. He told me that recently he was there on the beach and there was a local who was selling henna tatoos. When approached, a girl he knows asked my friend to inquire the price. "15 reais" said the salesman. The girl asked my friend to see if he would accept a lower price. When he did, the salesman became angry and began shouting at my friend that he was interrupting the sale. Tensions escalated and the guy said he was going to get some guys and come back to get my friend. A local guy my friend knows told him he better be careful as the economy has caused friction in the populace and people don't have much patience. Sure enough, a group of guys came and luckily the local guy took charge and explained the girl only wanted a lower price. I told my friend that people are tense everywhere. Even you and I are tense, I said. You have to take a step back from every situation now. It is not worth risking violence.