While the opportunity to watch the World Cup is once in a lifetime, you should also take the chance to explore the real Rio de Janeiro: the Rio outside of futbol. Rio is full of life and flavor, from the favelas to the suburbs. In a short amount of time, you can have an incredibly unique experience of Brazil by following the locals through their home, their Rio. Watching the games is just part of the journey. Our Insiders, Don Blanquito and “Real Rio Artists” Nina Chini Gani and Julia Murad, tell us the best things about Rio: from a local to you. By taking just a few steps outside the stadium, you can discover Rio de Janiero off the beaten path.
Vayable: What do we need to know that we won’t find in the guidebook?
Don: Rio is a city that is so dynamic in so many ways that I don’t even know where to begin.
I think people should definitely check out Lapa (neighborhood)on a Friday night. It’s a gateway to Rio’s “real Rio,” you can meet any kind of person at Lapa. Bring your camera because you probably won’t remember everything!
Ipamena, Arpoador is beautiful as well — touristy, but lovely for pictures and for an evening swim, in my opinion.
There are a lot of places to get off the beaten path such as Urca, which is lovely on a weekend, as well as the Suburbs of Rio de Janeiro. The only issue is without language skills and/or a local contact, it can be difficult to get around — but that isn’t a problem if you’re with me!
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A collection of destination tips to help you travel like a local.