rio travel guide

P R E S E N T S

Rio A G U I D E T O T H E C I D A D E MARAVILHOSA

Roadrips Presents Rio de Janeiro | 5

Rio de Janeiro is Brazil’s most popular tourist destination and the host of the 2016 Summer Games. In preparation for the upcoming Summer Games (as well as the 2014 World Cup), Roadtrips staff has travelled to Rio dozens of times, each time learning a little more about this intriguing destination. We created this travel guide to share our findings with you, whether it be something as important as where to stay or something as simple as the best place to find a burger.

With Rio’s six million culturally diverse residents and its rich natural beauty, it is no surprise why its popularity continues to grow. Not only does Rio annually host the exciting and colorful Carnival, but it is also home to the impressive Sugarloaf Mountain, a collection of world-class galleries and museums, historic colonial architecture and the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer. Despite Rio’s continued modernization, it also embraces its natural beauty and diverse past, making it an exciting and distinctive destination.

Whether you choose to spend your time in Rio sipping a Caipirinha (Brazil’s national cocktail) on the beach, hiking through an enchanting rain forest or shopping in the fashionable Leblon district of Rio, this city has something to offer every type of traveler.

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Roadrips Presents Rio de Janeiro | 7

TRAVEL TIPSBrazil is a beautiful and exotic country full of spectacular sights to see, many of which are in Rio de Janeiro. After a very successful stint hosting the 2014 World Cup of Soccer, Brazil is preparing to shine even brighter with the 2016 Summer Games in Rio. As is usual when traveling outside of our home country, there are always challenges present, extending from differing customs and common practices, but with some preparation and a willingness to be flexible, travelers are easily won over by Rio’s many charms. It’s no wonder that Rio is one of the world’s most desirable destinations. We at Roadtrips want to help set your expectations and do whatever we can to ensure that you are prepared for Rio’s challenges and triumphs, and to create the best possible experience for our guests.

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8 Rio | A Guide to the Cidade Maravilhosa Roadrips Presents Rio de Janeiro | 9

GETTING TO RIOThere are many flight route options from major North American cities into South America. The majority of these international flights arrive into Rio or Sao Paulo. For the 2016 Rio Games, flights directly into Rio will fill up first but there is excellent lift from numerous international gateways into Sao Paulo (GRU). You’ll find more flights and potentially slightly less expensive fares via GRU, just make sure to book your connections at the same time as your international flights. During the 2016 Summer Games, a major international event, there will be high demand for these domestic flights as well. So even though there are many routes, it’s best to book early to get the best price, as well as your preferred routing and schedule.

TRAVEL TIMES & TRANSPORTATIONTraffic is a significant issue in most large Brazilian cities. As well, traffic patterns during major events are, by nature, always somewhat dynamic. Roadtrips accesses official information from local

While Brazil normally requires most visitors to obtain an entry visa prior to arrival, the Brazilian government recently announced that they will waive this policy during the Summer Games for a number of countries including the USA, Canada, Australia, and Japan. If you’re not sure whether you are eligible for a visa exemption, please contact your local Brazilian Consulate or ask the Roadtrips At-Your-Service Desk for details. Visitors still require a valid passport.

DO I NEED A VISA?

authorities, the Games Organizing Committee and from our destination partners to provide the best information possible about traffic, estimated travel times, and permitted drop off points at venues. Roadtrips’ Summer Games guests will benefit hugely from our experience working at multiple Games and the recent World Cup.

Good news! Traffic during the Games often isn’t quite as bad as forecasted. Many city residents leave the city during the Games, businesses and schools provide staff holidays and the total number of cars on the road reduces from normal levels. Still, enhanced security, closures for VIPs, and random rules imposed by the Organizing Committee can create traffic headaches so it’s important to plan for extra time, to be flexible and to learn as the Games progress. It’s also important to note that at the Summer Games, many venues have wide security perimeters. A smart plan for accessing the events is a good pair of walking shoes and a few extra minutes. Our staff has experience and knowledge that you’ll find invaluable and they will assist you with all of it. It’s the goal of our team of hosts,

drivers, and destination specialists to provide as seamless an experience as possible for you.

DINING OUT & RESERVATIONSIn Brazil, it is not uncommon to have the evening meal start between 8:30 and 9:00 p.m. or later. You may even notice that many restaurants have very few patrons dining before 8:00 p.m. It is good to note that many restaurants do not typically take reservations, but if you arrive for the first seating (typically at 7:00pm) you will most often have no trouble being seated right away. Our Roadtrips personal concierges can give you the inside track on the best places to eat and often arrange for reservations before 8pm. Want to eat earlier? They can also suggest all day dining establishments that are open before 7pm. Be sure to check out our Restaurant Guide to Rio (p. 23) to hear about all of our favorites.


HOW TO DIAL LOCALLY AND INTERNATIONALLYTo call a Brazilian phone number from a US or Canadian phone (mobile or land line) you must dial 011 + Country Code (55 for Brazil) + Area Code (21 for Rio) + the 8 digit phone number.

To call a US or Canadian phone number from your North American mobile phone you must dial 00 + 1 + Area Code + Telephone Number.

LANGUAGEThe official language of Brazil is Portuguese, but it is quite different in style and pronunciation from the Portuguese spoken in Portugal. Although more common in major cities such as Rio de Janeiro, English is not widely spoken in Brazil, and most who do will have only a basic knowledge of the language. Our host team includes Rio-based destination specialists who are at your disposal to assist with any language obstacles.

WEATHERBrazil is located in the Southern Hemisphere, as such, its seasons are exactly the opposite of those in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer is December through March, and winter is June through September. Although the Rio Games will take place during Brazil’s winter period, Rio is very mild and sunny year-round. In August, the average low in Rio de Janeiro is 64°F (17°C) with average highs of 81°F (27°C). Just like winter in North America, South American winters feature early sunsets and later sunrises. Typically in August, Rio is nearly perfect for beautiful alfresco dining in the moonlight.

BANKING & LOCAL CURRENCYThe official currency in Brazil is the Real, plural Reais (noted by symbols R$ or BRL). Banks and automated teller machines (caixa automática) are widely available, however, it is important to note that specific ATMs may not work on your bank’s network (most often CIRRUS or PLUS). Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted credit cards, however, American Express and other cards are often accepted,

particularly at fine restaurants and hotels. Bank machines are not always open 24 hours. ATMs often close at 8 or 10 p.m. or are programmed to dispense only a small amount of money. In general, it’s a good idea to have at least some cash on hand in the event your access to a working ATM is limited.

ELECTRICITYVoltage in Rio is usually 110 V. Hotels typically label their outlets clearly, however if you are unsure, it is always best to use an adapter that can handle the range of voltage or check with the hotel before using the outlets. Most outlets in Rio are the round, 2-prong style and will require an adapter to convert a North American pronged plug to fit the outlet.

TIME ZONEDuring the Summer Games period, the time zone for Rio de Janeiro will be GMT -3 hours.

New York - August 5, 2016 - 4:00 PM • Rio de Janeiro - August 5, 2016 - 5:00 PM (+1 hour)

Los Angeles - August 5, 2016 - 1:00 PM • Rio de Janeiro - August 5, 2016 - 5:00 PM (+4 hours)

As with most destinations, recognition of good service by tipping is appreciated but not always required in Rio. There are a few common practices to be aware of. A 10% service charge is automatically included on most restaurant and hotel bills and any additional amount is completely at your discretion. For taxis, it is common to round up the amount to facilitate change. Of course, it’s a great practice to be generous with housekeepers, servers, drivers and other service staff as many of these folks have limited earning power and are key breadwinners for their families.

WHAT ABOUT TIPPING?


TRANSPORTATIONThe coastal city of Rio de Janeiro has a variety of transportation options. A wonderful, sprawling city, travel times can vary greatly depending on the destination and mode of travel, but most major hotels, attractions, restaurants and Olympic venues can be reached by various transportation methods.

For the Summer Games, Roadtrips’ guests will receive assistance from our onsite team in arranging transportation and making transportation choices to help get to their events and to explore the Cidade Maravilhosa (the Marvelous City). For many of our guests, a mix of taxis and pre-chartered private vehicles will be the best solution.

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TAXIRio taxis are one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to get around. They operate by meter with varied rates depending on the day and time. Drivers are quite knowledgeable but rarely speak English, so we recommend that passengers have their destination written

down or listed on their portable electronic device. Yellow taxis are licensed and are the official service in Rio; they are plentiful and the fares are reasonable. The biggest hurdle can be traffic; roads are often faced with congestion, particularly at rush hour.

Another option is the Radio Taxi, generally green, blue or white vehicles. You’ll pay a premium for these but they tend to run higher quality vehicles and are very safe and reliable. They are arranged through a hotel or by calling directly. Prices are fixed and set in advance. It’s also good to note that most taxis are small and fit a maximum of 3-4 guests.

PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLESRoadtrips can arrange for a private vehicle for those preferring the comforts of a dedicated car. We recommend securing these in advance to guarantee availability, particularly for larger groups, as demand will be high. In addition, our hosts will work onsite during the Summer Games with guests, concierges, and transportation coordinators at our premium

For the Summer Games, Roadtrips’ guests will receive assistance from our onsite team in arranging transportation and making transportation choices to help get to their events and to explore the Cidade Maravilhosa (the Marvelous City). For many of our guests, a mix of taxis and pre-chartered private vehicles will be the best solution.

HOW WILL I GET AROUND?

hotels to make private chartered vehicles arrangements on request, where available.

METRORio’s subway system is relatively new and rather small for a city so large. There are three lines: Line 1 (orange line) which operates in the Central and South Zones, which include the main tourist locations of Copacabana and Ipanema; Line 2 (green line) which serves the more residential areas towards the north; and most importantly for our Summer Games guests, Line 4 (blue line) that will link Ipanema to the Barra da Tijuca neighborhood, home to the Olympic Park. The metro may seem overwhelming at first, but with a bit of familiarization regarding the routes and stations it becomes easier to understand and is reliable, safe and clean. In general, the metro operates Monday through Saturday from 5 a.m. to midnight, and on Sundays and holidays from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. There is expansion work being done on the metro in preparation for the 2016 Summer Games, including additional stations in the South Zone and the completion of Line 4’s link to Barra.

BUSBuses serve almost all of Rio de Janeiro, operate 24 hours a day, and are the most inexpensive method of transportation. It can be a bit confusing to navigate the bus system due to language and routing challenges, therefore we’d suggest planning the trip in advance with assistance as drivers will not generally speak English. Fares are paid directly to the driver in cash. Be cautious: avoid buses at night, guard your personal belongings, and stick to the main routes.

CAR RENTALAs there are so many transportation options in Rio, a car hire isn’t necessary or required to get around. Navigating the streets of Rio is not for the faint of heart - many roads operate a one-way system and traffic jams can be common. Finding parking can also be challenging in Rio. For those feeling brave, Rio has all the major international car rental agencies including a selection of Brazilian companies. Ensure that you have proper insurance and good maps.


WALKINGWalking is a great way to discover the beachside districts of Copacabana, Arpoador and Ipanema. They are lively, scenic, and chock full of restaurants, bars and shops. The bohemian neighborhoods of Santa Teresa and Lapa can also be explored by foot as an excellent way to soak in the history and vibrant culture in these artistic areas. Pedestrians should be mindful of directions and avoid walking in some areas at night.

CYCLINGCycling is becoming increasing popular in Rio. With the benefits of providing exercise, avoiding

traffic and choosing a more sustainable way to get around, cycling paths and bicycle racks are popping up all across the city. Specified routes are well marked. A public bike rental system is in place, and shops that specialize in rentals are also easily accessible.

FERRYA lesser-known transportation option is the ferry service. Many Cariocas live in Niteroi (Rio’s sister city) and commute the short distance to Rio for work, via Guanabara Bay. Millions of passengers travel every year by ferry on fleets of varying capacities. There are numerous services between these two cities; they are frequent and inexpensive. While it’s not a serviceable option for getting around Rio itself, it’s great for those wanting to visit the Niteroi Art Museum or to take in the beautiful views.


TOP 5 THINGS TO SEE IN RIO

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CORCOVADO CRISTO REDENTOROne of the most iconic and recognizable monuments in the world, Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) stands atop Corcovado, surrounded by the beautiful Parque Nacional da Tijuca and the beautiful city of Rio de Janeiro. Completed in 1931, this magnificent statue can be reached from the base by a funicular railway that winds its way through the lush forest of Tijuca as it makes its way towards the summit. Once at the top, the incredible panoramic views of Rio including downtown, Sugarloaf Mountain and Copacabana, will almost make you forget to turn around and take in the imposing 98-foot statue that stands, arms open, embracing this world-class city. In fact, we think this is such a spectacular attraction that we have included a guided tour to Corcovado and Christ the Redeemer in our standard Summer Games packages, so that none of our guests will miss out.

PARQUE NACIONAL DA TIJUCAAs one of the world’s largest urban forests, it is difficult not to be in awe of this lush and spectacular landscape. Visitors to the park can take in wonderful hikes, anywhere from beginner to advanced, unforgettable lookout points from spots such as Mirante Dona Marta, countless species of flora and fauna as well as beautiful waterfalls. Covering over 15 square miles of Rio, it is best experienced with a guide who can show you all of the hidden lookouts and best spots to catch that perfect picture. Our Tijuca Forest hike is a great way to see this incredible area.

PÃO DE AÇÚCAR SUGARLOAF MOUNTAINOnly second to Cristo Redentor, Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf) Mountain is Rio’s next most-famous sight. Towering over Guanabara Bay, the views afforded from its peak are some of the most breathtaking in all of Brazil. Visitors to Sugarloaf can take a series of relaxing cable car rides to the summit. If you are feeling adventurous, you can hike (about 30 minutes) to the top of Morro da Urca, the smaller mountain, and from there continue to the top of Sugarloaf via cable car. As one of Rio’s highest points above sea level, views from the top are stunning and with a multitude of wildlife and beautiful forest, there is so much to see at this mountain.

THE BEACHESYou cannot visit Rio de Janeiro without experiencing one of its world-famous beaches. From iconic spots such as Copacabana and Ipanema, with their beautifully designed boardwalks, to lesser-known gems like Barra da Tijuca and São Conrado, soaking in the sun while sipping a Caipirinha is one of the best ways to relax the day away in Rio.

SANTA TERESAPerched on top of a hill overlooking the city, visitors to Santa Teresa will feel as if they’ve departed from the typical Rio de Janeiro as they explore this unique neighborhood. With its colonial architecture, cobbled streets and artistic flare, visitors can spend hours just meandering the narrow streets, taking in the art studios, galleries, and cafés that are nestled in this delightful community.


ACCOMMODATIONSAs one would expect, Rio has a wide variety of accommodation options to choose from. However, compared to most major cities, Rio has a significant shortage of luxury hotel rooms, especially when it comes to major events such as the Summer Games. With this knowledge in hand, Roadtrips began working in Rio years in advance to secure a unique inventory of top end accommodation options for our Summer Games guests. The possibilities range from charming boutique hotels to top-end luxury properties and even private villas or condos.

Many visitors to Rio are lured in by the beaches and for good reason; Rio has some of the best in the world. Copacabana and Ipanema are the two biggest names and they have plenty of hotels to choose from. Ipanema boasts one of our favorites, the Caesar Park Ipanema by Sofitel, as well as the Golden Tulip Ipanema Plaza. If Copacabana is more your scene, check out the Porto Bay Rio International, Rio Othon Palace, or the Tulip Inn Copacabana. While a beachfront location is hard to beat, Rio has so many unique and interesting neighborhoods worthy of exploration. We love the chic bohemian vibe of Santa Teresa and in particular, Hotel Santa Teresa and the charming Mama Ruisa boutique hotel. There are also number of villas and condo options available throughout the city for travelers seeking something a little more exclusive.Rio


ROADTRIPS RESTAURANTGUIDE TO RIORio de Janeiro is an incredible city - exciting, beautiful and passionate. It is a world-class tourist destination and will be a spectacular host to the 2016 Summer Games.

In regards to food, Rio has it all: casual, neighborhood botecos for a quick petisco through to outstanding Michelin-starred restaurants serving the finest of cuisine. Every taste and palate can be accommodated in this energetic, coastal city. Dining out is a way of life for the Carioca, and there is no shortage of options here for true foodies.

Listed by area, here is a selection of our favorite establishments. These are the restaurants we frequented many times over during the 2014 World Cup. We’re excited to share our findings with those visiting Rio in 2016 for what promises to be a truly memorable Summer Games. Bon appétit!

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IPANEMAAs one of our choice locations for guests travelling with us to the Summer Games, Iconic Ipanema is beautiful and spirited. It inspired the song “The Girl from Ipanema” and is the birthplace of the Bossa Nova. Ipanema boasts a spectacular beach, sophisticated shopping and a host of great restaurants. Its cultural scene is vibrant, as displayed through its many art galleries, theatres, markets and clubs.

Our restaurant recommendations are within walking distance or a quick taxi ride from our 2016 Summer Games Ipanema Hotels.

ESPLANADA GRILLA popular Carioca restaurant featuring large cuts of fine, local beef. Try the traditional Brazilian cut picanha cooked to perfection and served by butcher-coated waiters. Esplanada Grill provides a cozy atmosphere, personal service and a great location in a charming neighborhood.

www.esplanadagrill.com.br

VENGA Venga is the first Spanish tapas bar in Rio, focusing on one of the most social ways to dine – sharing a variety of small portions accompanied by a glass of wine or cold beer. Sample traditional plates of chorizo, Iberico ham and Manchego cheese in a fun, dynamic atmosphere.

venga.com.br

ALESSANDRO E FREDERICO CAFÉ The initial location was so successful that they opened up a second, slightly more casual one across the street. Now there are more in upscale suburban areas, but at the original Ipanema restaurant you’ll find a more authentic feel,

great alfresco dining with great Brazilian meat, wood-fired pizza and excellent pasta dishes.

alessandroefrederico.com.br

GEROThe Fasano brothers are serious about luxury hotels, fine wine and top quality restaurants. The original Gero is in São Paulo and is vibey, classy, expensive and delicious, not to mention widely popular. The brothers figured that their template for fine Italian cuisine would work in Rio, too. So they replicated the São Paulo restaurant to the finest details and have since done it again in Barra and in Belo Horizonte.

www.fasano.com.br/gastronomia/restaurante/24

BALADA MIX Balada Mix is a colorful and cheerful place for fresh juices, a variety of sandwiches and great salads. Close to the beach, it’s ideal for a quick, tasty lunch or early dinner. There is an outdoor verandah as well as indoor seating. Casual, delicious and great for people watching!

www.baladamixrestaurante.com.br/

GAROTA DE IPANEMA The composers of the “The Girl from Ipanema” were dining at this landmark restaurant when they were inspired to write the world-renowned song. It is a great place for a cerveja and picanha (beer and steak) that serves late into the night and attracts visitors from all over the globe. It’s a fun atmosphere with delicious codfish and fried crab.

L’ENTRECOTE DE PARIS Known for its famed entrecote dishes, this is the Rio outlet of the traditional “Steak Frites” restaurant. It’s just as delicious here as it is in New York with the same authentic, housemade sauce, quality, tender cuts of meat, attentive service and a welcome greeting.

www.lentrecotedeparis.com.br

T.T. BURGERActually located in Arpoador (just outside Ipanema) but well worth the walk, T.T. Burger is arguably the best burger in Rio. Rio’s most famous restaurateur, Claude Troisgros, has joined forces with his son to open a simple hamburger stand. Simple might define the basic


premises and short menu (just burgers, fries, drinks and milkshakes) but less so is the fifty-year-old Troisgros family secret burger recipe. Although some of us prefer it without the housemade smoky sweet ketchup, this is still easily our favorite burger in Brazil.

GALANILocated in the Caesar Park Sofitel, Galani produces sophisticated French cuisine fused with Brazilian ingredients. Focusing on international culinary trends, it’s constantly

evolving its menu and creating delicious, high-quality contemporary cuisine. Meals are complemented with beautiful views overlooking Ipanema beach.

SATYRICONKnown as one of the best seafood restaurants in Rio, Satyricon is elegant and charming with an extensive wine list and pretty garden area. Expect great service and fresh, flavorful Mediterranean cuisine. Superb.

www.satyricon.com.br/en

LEBLONAffluent and scenic, Leblon is adjacent to Ipanema and has a quieter, more relaxed vibe. As one of the more sophisticated and exclusive neighborhoods in Rio, it is home to the wealthy upper class and is framed by a spectacular beach, stunning mountains and the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, site of the Rowing and Canoe Sprints venue for the 2016 Summer Games.

Some of the best restaurants in Rio are located in Leblon. Our chosen ones are a quick cab ride or leisurely stroll along the coast, west of Ipanema, where some of our top hotels are located.

ZUKARua Dias Ferreira in Leblon is probably the best restaurant street in Rio and its anchor is Zuka. This buzzing little contemporary restaurant may be a little tightly sat but it is also both trendy and delicious. You’ll find something for all here including excellent beef, fresh fish, king prawn risotto and creamy cannelloni. It’s a top spot on the beautiful people circuit.

www.zuka.com.br

BRIGITE’S A sister restaurant to Zuka, Brigite’s interesting dishes include duck confit with manioc gratin (heavenly), many vegetarian options and an experimental cocktail menu. Brigite’s bright white interiors, inviting bar and delicious food never disappoints. A solid spot for great food in a hip atmosphere.

http://brigites.com.br/

SUSHI LEBLONAcross the street from Zuka, this is the current “it” place in Rio for sushi. Rio de Janeiro is surprising in many ways and a Japanese restaurant serving exquisite sushi is one of the most pleasant surprises of all. It’s one of the most popular Japanese restaurants in the region benefiting from acclaimed Sushiman Jun Sakamoto, a famous Sao Paolo sushi expert.

www.sushileblon.com

GIUSEPPE GRILL Excellent steak and seafood grill that features top quality meats, fresh seafood and shellfish (displayed a la Milos in New York or Miami on a large table of ice) in an elegant setting. To start, the house specialty pao de quiejo sticks are a delicious appetizer. There’s an extensive wine cellar and a beautiful private room for up to 40 guests on the lower level.

www.bestfork.com.br


QUADRUCCI Chic and vibrant, Quadrucci serves fantastic Italian dishes on one of the best-known foodie streets in the city. Headed by chef Ronaldo Canha, it is won the attention of critics and Cariocas with expertly prepared Italian dishes such as decadent pastas, creamy risottos and cooked to perfection meats.

quadrucci.com.br/site

CT BOUCHERIEClaude Troisgros is a French kid who left his home to run away to Brazil. A couple more parts to that story: Dad Pierre, and Uncle Jean are the founders of French nouvelle cuisine. Brother, Michel is multi-Michelin star awarded. Lucky for Rio, the runaway has done fine, too. He’s now a television personality in Brazil and operates a

mini restaurant empire in the city. CT Boucherie is a deliciously unique concept where your main, once served, is accompanied by a parade of servers each with a different hot side for your consideration. This is a great place to eat fine meats and sample a wide variety of traditional Brazilian dishes under the supervision of a talented and steady French hand. CT also has a CT Trattoria in Jardim Botanico, a CT Brasserie in Sao Conrado and Olympe, a fine dining restaurant. Claude is the star of the Rio restaurant scene.

www.ctboucherie.com.br

RESERVA TT BURGER Another branch from our local burger heroes, and worth mentioning twice! Delicious, flavorful and immensely satisfying burgers. This Leblon location is recently opened.

JARDIM BOTANICOThe “Botanical Gardens” neighborhood is a picturesque, residential area tucked away behind the Lagao. Fairly equidistant between our Ipanema, Copacabana and Santa Teresa hotels, many of our favorite restaurants can be found in this tranquil yet lively part of Rio.

BRAZ Pizza is taken to a higher level here with silver service and butcher-coated waiters serving fabulous wood-fired fare in a big, fun, upscale yet comfortable atmosphere. One of our staff favorites for a casual bite and delicious food!

www.brazpizzaria.com.br

MR. LAM Mr. Lam is hailed as the best Chinese restaurant in Rio and fronted by a skilled team of chefs handpicked from Hong Kong. With a nod to feng shui design, the entrance is marked by authentic terracotta warriors and the furnishings combine traditional décor with a modern touch. Each dish is freshly and expertly prepared. Outstanding Peking Duck, spectacular views and some of the best Chinese cuisine in Rio.

www.mrlam.com.br

OLYMPE Claude Troisgros’s gourmet restaurant is considered to be one of the 50 best restaurants in Latin America. Expect evolutionary cuisine with a Brazilian flare, such as heart of palm

carpaccio and roasted quail with farofa. It is Michelin star awarded and offers a fantastic tasting menu.

olympe.com.br/en

ROBERTA SUDBRACK Fine dining from one of Rio’s hottest chefs. Sudbrack was previously the personal chef to the former president of Brazil and also chef to the Brazilian athletes in the 2012 Games in London. The menu varies based on the freshest ingredients of the day. Unique, outstanding and winner of a Michelin star.

robertasudbrack.com.br

CT TRATTORIEClaude Troisgros’s Italian outpost – authentic, signature dishes with a Brazilian touch including antipasti, seafood risotto and the house specialty Polpettone – meat loaf with cream cheese and homemade tomato sauce. Complete with a large wine cellar and a great atmosphere.

cttrattorie.com.br


RUBAIYAT RIO Rubaiyat is a popular steakhouse on the Rio scene with fantastic picanha, juicy Kobe beef and expertly cooked fish. The food is rivaled by

the breathtaking views of the Jockey Club and an extensive wine list. A place to see and be seen.

rubaiyat.com.br

SANTA TERESAThe Bohemian, hillside area of Santa Teresa is a completely different side to Rio. Home to the stunning Hotel Santa Teresa, one of our favorites for the 2016 Summer Games, it is tranquil, eccentric, spectacularly beautiful and incredibly historic.

TEREZE AT HOTEL SANTA TERESA Sophisticated yet casual, Tereze offers world cuisine in a gorgeous setting above the lights of Rio below. Burnt cement floors, Rock Lane recycled wood furniture, white-washed walls and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking treetops and colonial houses provide a tranquil and picturesque setting to enjoy innovative Brazilian cuisine. A fantastic wine list complements dishes made of the finest regional produce.

www.santa-teresa-hotel.com/en/cuisine.html

BAR DO MINEIRO Bar Do Mineiro is local joint kind of place that you would expect to see on a Brazilian version of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. It offers a chance for travelers to mix with locals in a lively atmosphere that serves up strong Caipirinhas and traditional Minas Gerais Brazilian cooking. Crowds wait outside in the street as business goes strong from the lunch hour deep into the evening. This is an excellent place to sample feijoada, the national dish. As you sip a beverage or wait for a table, try the pastiche de carne or pastiche de quiejo; little deep-fried pockets with meat or cheese. Very casual, friendly and tons of fun.

bardomineiro.net

APRAZÍVEL With a splendid view from Santa Teresa, Aprazível boasts a magnificent setting, superior service, and truly wonderful dishes. Locals and tourists alike praise Aprazível for its superior cuisine, including the potato sponge cake with creamed salt cod, flaked corn farofa, banana Santa Teresa, or the grilled fish and Brazilian meats. The cuisine is complemented by a stellar selection of Brazilian wines.

www.aprazivel.com.br

CAFECITO A picturesque and delightful all day dining

restaurant perched above the streets of Santa Teresa. It is best for sandwiches and snacks in a beautiful setting, with reasonable prices and friendly service. Soak in the surrounding views with a Brazilian coffee and decadent cake.

www.cafecito.com.br

BAR DO ARNAUDO Perched in a popular neighborhood location, Bar Do Arnaudo serves up cuisine from Northeastern Brazil in large, shareable platters. Excellent hearty dishes include grilled queijo coalho (Brazilian cheese) and feijoada (Brazil’s national dish of black beans and pork). Located in a scenic area of Santa Teresa.

COPACABANANeeding no introduction, Copacabana is famous for its sprawling beach, turquoise sea and iconic black and white promenade. It will be home to Beach Volleyball during the Summer Games as well as a selection of great hotels we have booked for our guests in Rio.

CIPRIANI The crown jewel of the food and beverage scene at Copacabana Palace, Cipriani is a fine dining Italian restaurant that scores on all levels.

Highlights include indulgent dishes such as ultra creamy lemon seafood risotto, a parmesan cream gratinee tagliatelle, a sesame dusted truffle cheese puff pastry, and fine roasted


Brazilian filets with a rich, dark cabernet sauce. There are no misses and the hotel sparkles.

www.belmond.com/copacabana-palace-rio-de-janeiro/rio-restaurants

MEE Located at the iconic Copacabana Palace, Asian Fusion restaurant MEE was awarded a Michelin star and is a true gastronomic experience. Celebrity Chef Ken Hom creates stand out, exciting dishes in an Asian inspired setting by the hotel’s iconic swimming pool. A must-do in Copacabana.

kenhom.com/mee-restaurant

D’AMICI D’Amici is a warm, hidden-away gem serving high quality Italian fare on the outskirts of Copacabana, in the Leme area. It’s popular with locals looking for a cosy, traditional Italian restaurant. Top-notch white pizza, fish and housemade bread.

www.damiciristorante.com.br

LA FIDUCIA AND LA FIDUCIA CAFE Meaning “trust” in Italian, these are two excellent Italian options in the heart of Copacabana. Choose between a more formal dining experience with expertly prepared, classic dishes, or the casual café across the street for sandwiches, pastas and rich coffee and dessert.

www.lafiducia.com.br

CERVANTES Celebrating 60 years, Cervantes is famous for its exceptional sandwiches – steak, turkey, cheese – and adding the pineapple is a must! Think generous portions, quirky atmosphere and friendly service. A true local favorite and an ideal lunch spot while exploring Copacabana.

restaurantecervantes.com.br

MARIUS A quirky, rodizio-style restaurant with cheerful service. Busy and bustling, it provides high quality local meat, seafood, fresh salads and a vast dessert section. Eccentric décor and a weird but wonderful atmosphere!

www.marius.com.br

GULA GULA Gula Gula is simple but impresses with tasty dishes such as crispy chicken, grilled tilapia, and fresh quiches. Fresh, casual dining at Shopping Rio Sul just beyond Copacabana with other locations throughout the city.

www.gulagula.com.br

AZUMIAn excellent Japanese restaurant where sushi chefs hurry around the open kitchen (there are private rooms for those wanting a personal feel) preparing fresh, quality cuisine. Traditional and authentic with an extensive menu highlighting all the usual favorites prepared perfectly.

BARRAFeaturing Rio’s largest white sand beach and panoramic views of the mountains, Barra will host many of the events during the 2016 Summer Games. Barra is the new and burgeoning section of Rio and has a distinctly suburban feel with busy roadways, endless condominium towers and multiple shopping malls, each featuring a wide variety of restaurants inside or attached.

POBRE JUAN (VILLAGE MALL BARRA) This is another example of a popular São Paulo restaurant expanding into Rio. Pobre Juan is mostly about great steak. That becomes readily apparent when you walk past the gigantic glassed-in churrasco grill and see the grillmaster in action. The steak here is amongst the best in the country. Additionally, the atmosphere, set in the ultra luxe Village Mall, is sophisticated but also casual and fun with a huge patio

overlooking the lagoons in Barra.

www.pobrejuan.com.br

QUADRIFOGLIO (VILLAGE MALL BARRA)Mediterranean cuisine influenced by the fresh, flavorful ingredients of Brazil. Chef’s suggestions include Brazil-nut encrusted fillet of sole, Handmade gnocchi with sage butter and classic tiramisu. Authentic food in a great location.

www.quadrifogliocaffe.com.br


CT BRASSERIE (VILLAGE MALL BARRA)Another excellent choice from famous Claude Troisgros’ family of restaurants. Hip but casual atmosphere in the fashionable Village Mall. Choose a perfectly-grilled Tenderloin with housemade sauce; a fresh, hearty salad or rich seafood pasta. A sure winner.

www.ctbrasserie.com.br

GERO One of the most distinguished creations from the Fasano group. Gero is a stand-out for dishes such as rack of lamb with rosemary sauce, classic Ossobucco and homemade pastas. The focus is traditional Italian cuisine with a Brazilian twist; true fine dining and an exceptional wine list to accompany.

www.fasano.com.br/gastronomia/restaurante/25

BRAZ Braz is an upscale casual pizzeria with authentic ingredients and white butcher-coat service. Killer calabresa pizza and a unique thin folded-over-pie version of a calzone with mozza, ricotta and shredded ham that’s just fantastic. Just as delicious as the Jardim Botanico location.

www.brazpizzaria.com.br/home

BARRA GRILLAnother popular Brazilian steakhouse with a variety of quality grilled meats, seafood, fresh made salads and sushi. There’s a wide selection of drinks, attentive and friendly service and a lively atmosphere.

www.barragrill.com.br

38 Rio | A Guide to the Cidade Maravilhosa Roadrips Presents Rio de Janeiro | 39 Rio

SUMMER GAMES FACTS + FIGURES


Since the first Modern Games were hosted in Athens, Greece in 1896.

It was announced in October 2009 that Rio de Janeiro would host the 2016 Summer Games.

Over 10,500 athletes from 206 countries will compete in the 2016 Summer Games.

The Summer Games will last for 17 days and will be held in 32 competition venues spread out across Rio in four main regions – Deodoro, Maracana, Barra and Copacabana.

tickets will be available for these Games

IT HAS BEEN 120 YEARS

There have been 27 editions of the Summer Games staged across the globe, but the 2016 Summer Games will be the first Games to be hosted in South America!

6N. AMERICA

7.5 MILLION

there will be 306 medals up for grabs in 42 different sporting events including two new additions – golf and rugby. Golf is returning after 112 years and rugby after 92 years.

To ensure the Games go as smoothly as possible, there will be 39 test events, which started in August 2014 and will run through to May 2016.

In order to pull off an event of this magnitude, the organizing committee will need to hire 8,000 employees, 85,000 outsourced staff and train 45,000 volunteers. Wow!

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EUROPE

ASIA

OCEANA


THE BEACHESA Beginners Guide to Beach Culture in RioIf you’re planning to visit Rio for the 2016 Summer Games, you need to know this: the people of Rio are obsessed with their beautiful beaches, and for good reason. There’s more than 40km of coastline in the city, and the beaches span from the wildly popular Ipanema (yes, as immortalized in the song The Girl from Ipanema), to secluded coves that you’ll need to know how to find because they are hidden away. There’s a huge beach culture in Rio de Janeiro, and the locals converge there to relax, play, and party. No trip to this city could possibly be complete without walking on the white sands and dipping your toes in the turquoise waters, or indulging in many of the other activities you’ll find along the way.

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The main beaches in Rio run along a distance of just over 8km, and are divided up by 12 lifeguard stations (known as postos) that are referred to by number by locals. Cariocas often use the postos to describe where things are relative to the beaches. Each posto offers a different kind of beach experience. Posto 10 on Ipanema, for example, is where you go to play sports, and you’ll find volleyball nets, ongoing soccer games, and plenty of people playing frescoball (a Brazilian game played with wooden bats and rubber balls). Postos 2 – 6 are situated on Copacabana Beach, and will be where the beach volleyball matches are played for the Summer Games. Posto 12 in Leblon is a great family

beach, complete with a playground for little kids.

Don’t be intimidated by the common fallacy that everyone on the beaches of Rio looks like a supermodel and has been nipped and tucked into physical perfection – this isn’t true. Beach culture in Rio is welcoming to all shapes and sizes, and you’ll see all kinds of bodies on the beach. Don’t expect to see many board shorts or cover-ups though – the locals prefer tight trunks and string bikinis, which makes for some interesting people watching!

Vendors walk along the beaches selling everything from brightly printed sarongs

and bikinis to fresh coconut water to mate (a popular Brazilian tea, which is absolutely delicious especially when mixed with lemonade) to sweet pastries and ice cream. You won’t even have to take a seat with you to the beach, as there are vendors there that will rent you one, and an umbrella. Throughout the Summer Games you can guarantee that the number of vendors walking along the beach will rise dramatically, and there’s bound to be lots of themed goods available to buy too.

If you want to swim in the ocean at the beaches in Rio, pay attention to where the locals are swimming and stay in sight of lifeguards. There can be a strong undertow and the waves can get

pretty crazy. If it is the surf that interests you, then there are some excellent surf schools that Roadtrips works with, and we also set guests up with paddle-boarding experiences when in Rio for the World Cup.

All the beaches in Rio are pretty spectacular. Spending time on them is such a pleasure, and whether you’re there for the day, or to catch a sunrise or sunset over the ocean you’ll certainly have a moment of sheer bliss on those sands.

In case we haven’t convinced you just how spectacular Rio’s beaches are, take a look at this amazing video provided by one of our local hosts: www.vimeo.com/132754225


HIKING RIOA beautiful way to experience the cityVisitors to Rio are thrilled to find themselves in a cosmopolitan city that offers plenty of fine dining and entertainment, and of course when coupled with the excitement of being there for the Summer Games, this leads to an incredible experience. What many visitors aren’t expecting though, is the incredible natural beauty to be found in the parks and mountains surrounding the city. Hiking in Rio is a serene and exhilarating experience, and one that we love building into our 2016 Summer Games Packages for our guests.

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Here are some of the most beautiful hikes in and around Rio:

The fairly easy Pedra Bonita Hike takes just 30 minutes to get you to the base of Pedro Bonita Mountain, from where you’ll be treated to incredible views out over the city, its stunning beaches, one of the city’s largest favelas, Rocinha, and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. Look up to see hang-gliders launching themselves from the mountain’s various look-off points, and other extreme sportspeople doing crazy stuff from the location. To get to this hike, we drive guests through the incredibly beautiful Tijuca Forest, and out past São Conrado Beach, so you’ll experience several

beautiful places along the way.

The Tijuca Forest Hike takes you through the world’s largest urban forest, and it is absolutely spectacular. You’ll hike through lush vegetation that looks like it has been there for millennia, though in fact the forest was only planted in the 19th century on land that had previously been stripped bare as sugar plantations. There are more than 30 waterfalls, and lots of impressive granite formations throughout the park. This hike is moderately difficult, and we like to spend half a day hiking and then combine the trip with an afternoon visit to Santa Teresa, a pretty and historic area of Rio with cobbled streets, grand old homes, museums, and the city’s oldest

surviving tram line.

For those looking for a more challenging hike, you can make your way up Corcovado to visit the Christ the Redeemer statue. Starting the trail at the beautiful Parque Lage, you follow a marked trail that takes roughly 90 minutes to get to the statue. We can set you up with guides to get you through this challenging terrain and up to the summit, which is just spectacular and gives such wonderful views in exchange for the hard work of making it up the mountain.

There are lots of hiking adventures that you can take in Rio, and whatever you’re interested in doing, and how hard you’d like to push yourself,

we can arrange for an experienced local guide to help you to get out and experience the city in this awesome way.


A TASTE OF BRAZILMixing the perfect CaipirinhaA Caipirinha is Brazil’s national cocktail, featuring a distilled Brazilian liquor made from sugar cane called cachaça, which when mixed with muddled limes and sugar creates a delightful cocktail that has been gaining popularity around the world since cachaça became widely available outside of Brazil. While the ingredients may seem simple, mixing the perfect Caipirinha can be difficult. Here is our tips on mixing up this delicious Brazilian cocktail:

1. Roll one large green lime per glass to soften and release the juices

2. Cut off each end and cut into small pieces (Be sure to leave the peel on for that brilliant Brazilian green colour)

3. Pound the lime bits together with a heaped tea spoon of sugar (If you have a muddler, great! If not, the back of a spoon will do the trick)

4. Add ice up to the top of a lowball or rocks glass

5. Add cachaça until it covers the ice (approximately 2 ounces)

6. Stir or shake well and serve

While this is the traditional form of the cocktail, you can also consider a number of variations to create your perfect Caipirinha.

Looking for something a bit sweeter?Try replacing limes with another fruit such as pineapple, strawberries, passion fruit, mangos or any other juicy fruit, creating a sweeter version of a Caipirinha referred to as a Caipifruta.

Can’t find cachaça? Whether you can’t find the right liquor, or just prefer to use your favorite spirit, you could try making a Caipiroska which uses vodka instead of cachaca a Caipirissima which uses rum, or a Caipisake made with sake.

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