Rio de Janeiro is an awe-inspiring city where impossibly steep granite peaks rise from the ocean between glorious stretches of golden sand. Brash skyscrapers vie for space with impeccable colonial buildings, and lush forests tumble down hillsides into densely populated residential areas.
Rio’s diverse cultures and peoples live in varying degrees of wealth or poverty. But no matter what their background or economic standing, Cariocas (Rio's residents) are characterised by a passion and enthusiasm for life.
Ranked top of Forbes' 2009 list of the world’s happiest cities, the cidade maravilhosa (marvellous city) revels in life, with the beach, football, samba and Carnival the principal diversions. High above all this fun and frivolity are Rio's ever-present landmarks - the statue of Christ the Redeemer on the summit of Corcovado (hunchback) mountain and Sugar Loaf with its historic cable car.
As well as these twin icons, Rio boasts a wealth of attractions and activities, plus great food, music and entertainment - enough to keep a visitor busy for any length of stay. A vibrant agenda, including hosting the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 Olympic Games, is quickly transforming the once precarious city into a safe and exciting destination.
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