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Rio de Janeiro

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Overview: On the south coast of Brazil, Rio de Janeiro's sprawling urban high rises spread around the base of steep lushly forested green hills and a long strip of sandy beach.

One of the world's most famous attractions in Rio de Janeiro is the impressive towering statue Christ the Redeemer but equally impressive views are also popularly seen from a cable car ride up to Sugar Loaf peak.

Cruise ships berth at the commercial Pier Maua port which can dock five cruise liners all sharing Emapa cruise passenger terminal. The port and cruise terminal are equipped with medical services, transportation options and shops. The Rio de Janeiro port is across from Praça Mauá district and shouldn't be walked through at night. Contact:

Tel: +55 21 2516 2618
Website: www.piermaua.com.br
The tourist information centre is located at the Pier Maua passenger terminal.

Transport: Shuttles provided by the cruise lines into the city centre are the best mean of transportation. Taxis can be hailed from outside the cruise terminal but be weary of overpricing. The cruise terminal is a long walk from any attractions and shouldn't be walked to at night. From the city centre a bus system is easily navigable. Attractions: The two most popular attractions both tower over the city, the giant Christ the Redeemer statue and the high central peak Sugar Loaf. Beaches are also popular with tourists and locals including the famous Ipanema and Copacabana which also has a popular boardwalk. In the downtown area a number of museums and historic churches dot the area and, if timed correctly, catch a football match in Estadio Maracana, one of the worlds largest stadiums. Restaurants:

• Brasileirinho - Rural atmosphere with traditional food.
• Paladino - Casual locals haunt with generous portions.
• Confeitaria Colombo - colonial era lunch dining.

Best dish: feijoda (black bean dish)

Shopping: A number of standard shopping centres dot the city but the most interesting finds are along Copacabana and Ipanema. Several weekend markets, Feira Hippie de Ipanema and the Babilônia Hype Fair, are the best way to buy local crafts. There is limited shopping at the port's passenger terminal.

Best buy: Gemstone jewellery

Excursions:

• View Iguacu Falls
• Explore Tijuca National Park
• Sail to the nearby islands and beaches
• Sightsee at the Imperial Museum and Crystal Palace
• Day trip to Buzios Peninsula