After spending a few days in Rio, we found Eddie on Vayable. We wanted to get a bit of an alternate perspective from a local resident of Rio - and that is exactly what we got!
We met next to Copacabana for the Morro da Babilonia tour and strolled down towards the favela. Along the way we got a bit of history around Copacabana and recent events surrounding the favelas. In contrast to much of the hysteria you hear from other tourists, Eddie gave us the lowdown on exactly why the favelas have become a lot safer in recent years - primarily down to better community relations but I'll leave him to explain it in full!
The hike itself was relaxed, really a comfortable pace and we stopped off at various points along the way to get different viewpoints. All I can say is that it was truly amazing to look across at the sugarloaf mountain, down at the bay in front of Urca and on the return leg (which takes you down the other side of the mountain) see the stretch of Copacabana (though this is somewhat impeded by the vegetation!).
We got down and went for a recuperatory beer at one of the bars of the favela, once again completely safe and the bar owner was especially happy to have a few foreigners visiting his establishment. Word of warning - he does enjoy giving all the ladies a welcome kiss to establish the owner/patron bond!
Personally, one of the more enjoyable and unique experiences I had in Rio de Janeiro. If you want to get a little closer to the vibe of the city and a little further from the tourist mass ... then get involved!
