next »

[stillstanding]

So, I'm heading out to Rio for a week-long conference in a month or so and I'm planning on taking out a day (8am-6pm) to take in some of the sights. I know I don't want to go on a tour of the favelas. And I also know I will probably want to visit the Corcovado and/or the Sugarloaf. (I expect I will already have had a chance to stroll around Copacabana and Ipanema). But then what else?? Help, oh worldly forumites!!

[j_source]

I found Corcovado pretty much a dud and it takes forever to get up there.  But then I find Jesus generally overated.  There's a great street market, the Hippie Craft Fair, that's excellent for souvenirs and leather.

[stillstanding]

Good to know about Corcovado, thanks j_source! By the way, why does it take forever to get up there? Are there long waiting lines? As for the Hippie Fair, I think that goes on on Sundays and, unfortunately, I will not be around on a Sunday...

How about the Botanical Gardens? Should they be part of my one day of Rio sightseeing?

[prytania3]

I know I don't want to go on a tour of the favelas.

I wouldn't be so hasty to cross off the favelas. I know it sounds like a poorism tour, but people are usually pleasantly surprised at what they find. Very friendly people, arts and crafts, spectacular views, and really interesting architecture. Also, much of the tourism profit goes back into the communities. For example, Marcelo Armstrong's tour helps support a school there. You may very well find the tour delightful and informative as opposed to simply voyeuristic (gawking at the poor). In fact, Americans and Europeans have started moving into the favelas because they like the people and the atmosphere.

http://www.favelatour.com.br/