Walks
From the snapshot views to paradisiacal beaches, an innovative cultural agenda, open air programs and consumer tips
Calmness in the West Zone
The West Zone is less sought out by tourists but it has natural beauties and a number of gastronomic options. On the way to Barra da Tijuca, take the Avenida Lucio Costa road, following the shoreline of Recreio, Reserva and Pontal, where the greenery is still preserved and you will find less busy beaches than those in the South Zone. In Pontal, stop for a swim in the waters of Prainha or Grumari. On the way back, choose between the great eating places in Vargem Grande. Here are three suggestions where you won´t go wrong: Gugut (Estrada do Rio Morto, 541, ☎ 21-2428-1343), Jardineto (Rua Luciano Gallet, 75, ☎ 21-2428-1053) and Quinta (Rua Luciano Gallet, 150, ☎ 21-2428-1396). Bear in mind that the restaurants in the area are usually open from Thursday to Sunday for lunch. Reservations are recommended.
Port cards views
Two post card views of the city should be visited at least once in your lifetime. From the foot of the Cristo Redentor statue (photo) on top of Corcovado hill, you have a 360-degree view of the beauties of the city. Go by train along tracks surrounded by greenery from the Cosme Velho station (Rua Cosme Velho, 513, ☎ 21-2558-1329. Fare: R$ 50.00). The glassed-in cable car suspended by steel cables, known as the Bondinho do Pão de Açúcar, stops at the Morro da Urca hill (220 meters high) and the Pão de Açúcar itself (396 meters). The ticket costs R$ 62.00 and visits can be made daily from 08:00 to 19:50.
New Museums
The city gained two attractive cultural centers last year. The works on display in the Museu de Arte do Rio (Praça Mauá, 5, ☎ 21-3031-2741), better known as the MAR, share attention with its exuberant architecture. The institution occupies two buildings from distinct epochs linked by a covered walkway that reproduces ocean waves. The Casa Daros is located in a neoclassic style building with an outstanding huge patio in Botafogo (Rua General Severiano, 159, ☎ 21-2275-0246). It is the Brazilian outlet of the famous Swiss foundation that specializes in Latin American art.
Walking on water
This stand up paddle (SUP) originated in Hawaii in the 1940s and has invaded Rio´s beaches. There are competitions along with options for beginners and practitioners. Fancy having a go?
? SUP Arpoador. ☎ 21-98352-1400
? SUP Carioca (private lessons). ☎ 21-99735-2305
? Kite Point Rio ? Team Nogueira. Av. do Pepê, kiosk 7, ☎ 21-98859-2112
Salvador Dali in the CCBB
One of the most awaited events of the year in Brazil is an exhibition of Dali´s works which will be held during the World Cup and run until September 22. The CCBB (Rua Primeiro de Março, 66, centro, ☎ 21-3808-2020) celebrates the master of surrealism with an exhibition of 150 items, including paintings, prints, drawings, documents and photos. One of the highlights of the collection is Figuras Tumbadas en la Arena, painted in 1926.
CARIOCA SHOPPING
Clothes, accessories and decorative objects reflecting the face of the city
Galeria River
This is a meeting place for surfers and also has products for those who like skate, boxing, trekking and tattoos. Rua Francisco Otaviano, 67, Ipanema, ☎ 21-2267-1709.
Gilson Martins
Carioca landscapes inspire the designer. Even the singer Madonna was taken by one of his bags made with recyclable material. Rua Visconde de Pirajá, 462 B, Ipanema, ☎ 21-2227-6178.
Maria Oiticica
Accessories and jewelry made with natural raw material, such as seeds, straw and vegetable-based leather, have made this brand famous. Av. Afrânio de Melo Franco, 290, Shopping Leblon, ☎ 21-3875-8025.
Novo Desenho
A store selling furniture, objects and accessories signed by famous designers and new talents. There are items for all pockets, from a necklace of recycled material by Mana Bernardes to an armchair by Sergio Rodrigues. Av. Infante Dom Henrique, 85, Museu de Arte Moderna, ☎ 21-2524-2291.
Parceria Carioca
Clothes, decorative objects and accessories created by handicraft cooperatives from the city. Rua Marquês
de São Vicente, 52, Shopping da Gávea, ☎ 21-2511-8023.
Salinas
The beachwear brand, created 32 years ago, has become famous for its colored bikinis, original prints and comfortable models. Av. Ataulfo de Paiva, 270, Rio Design Leblon, ☎ 21-2512-9734.
Sobral
Carlos Alberto Sobral began selling his pieces which are made with resin in the 1970s. Miniatures of the Cristo Redentor statue and Pão de Açucar usually captivate tourists. Rua Lauro Müller, 116, Shopping Rio Sul, ☎ 21-2275-4446.