Dear Belavista Readers,

Starting this month, Belavista-Rio will start a new series on Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup. We will be describing most of the 2014 Brazil World Cup developments such as stadium renovations, investments in infra-structure and historical facts. Brazil hosted the 1950 FIFA World Cup which was historic, but sad for us Brazilians since we lost at the Final for Uruguay by 2 X 1 in a legendary game.

We believe most soccer fans all around the world are eager to know what goes on at the backstage of Brazil 2014 World Cup. At Belavista Brazil Carnival Blog, this is what we promiss to deliver so when the Cup finally arrives, you can have all data you need.

In the first article, we will write a full retrospective about all the Official FIFA World Cup Posters from 1930 to 2006. The post in under research and should be posted next week. For now, please read the about FIFA South Africa´s 2010 World Cup Official Poster Ceremony:



The official 2010 FIFA World Cup™ poster was unveiled on 23 November 2007 following a board meeting of the Local Organising Committee in Durban. The poster was designed by the South African creative agency Switch, who also created the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ emblem. The design beat three rivals in a public vote held throughout South Africa from 11 September to 30 September 2007. As the lucky winner in a lottery among all of the voters, South African Marilyn Rhoda was presented with a prize of two 2010 FIFA World Cup™ tickets provided by official sponsor MTN.

"Portraying a country in the shape of a man heading a ball is a new idea with potent symbolism. For me, football is all about emotion and passion, which is why I was particularly attracted to this poster. It invites the world to join in the celebration of the greatest football event on earth, while highlighting the pride and passion of the African continent and her people. It represents the African dream come true. The South Africans made a good selection for the poster, which will represent their country all the way up to 2010," said FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter.



For the first time in football history, the FIFA World Cup™ will be hosted on African soil from 11 June to 11 July 2010. The artwork depicts a celebration of the African continent as well as everyone who calls it home. The simple and yet iconic rendering is symbolic of the relationship between football and Africa and captures a sense of excitement, awe and aspiration. It also reflects the positive impact that the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ will have on Africa. Africa is the "hero" of the official event poster. The unique shape of the continent almost naturally lends itself to the shape of a man's profile, while the face represents every single African supporter from Morocco in the north, Gambia in the east, Somalia, Kenya and Ethiopia in the west to South Africa in the south.



"The official poster symbolises the important role of football in the history, tradition and culture of the African continent. It's also a recognition that football has always been an inspiration for a better future and a generator of hope in Africa. It recognises that Africa has a football face and a football heart," explained Danny Jordaan, CEO of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee.

Bright, vibrant and celebratory, the colours of the poster are inspired by the South African flag, but also draw upon the African continent. The strong yellow background symbolises the sun as the source of warmth, energy and life.

From a total of 16 creative entries, all submitted by South African-based agencies, three proposals had been pre-selected for the public vote by South African residents. The jury was made up of FIFA General Secretary Jérôme Valcke, CEO of the 2010 South African Local Organising Committee Danny Jordaan, Minister in the South African Presidency Essop Pahad, Deputy Finance Minister Jabu Moleketi, South African playwright and author Wally Serote, and artist and director of the Vega School of Brand Communication Gordon Cook. Following on from the 2006 FIFA World Cup™ in Germany, this was the second time that residents of the host country have been actively involved in the selection of the official event poster.

Today we will talk in about one bird in Rio-de-Janeiro considered as one of the city´s favorite icon: the frigate bird or man-o'-war bird. Since the discovery of Rio-de-Janeiro, the frigate birds of Rio de Janeiro, here called as “Gaivotas”, have been drawing attention by naturalists, biologist, adventurous, and nature lovers in general. Please read below a scientific excerpt of the Frigate Bird from Columbia Encyclopedia.

Man-o'-war bird or frigate birds most aerial of the water birds, found in the tropic seas. The man-o'-war bird's wingspread (7 1/2 ft/228.5 cm) is the largest in proportion to its body (3-4 lb/1.4-1.8 kg) of any bird. It can soar motionless by the hour and has been recorded in flights lasting nearly four days, spending most of that time several hundred feet or more in the air. It is awkward on land and in the sea, where the feathers quickly become water-logged. Here in Brazil, the frigate birds of Rio de Janeiro are translated into Portuguese as “Gaivotas” and inspired several composers and Brazilian Poets.



Above, great photo of a man-o-war bird taken in Rio by Netmark from Flickr.

These frigate birds of Rio de Janeiro can be seen regularly at most beaches like Ipanema, Leblon, Flamengo, Copacabana and Urca to the amusement of locals and tourists. Its name derives from its grace and swiftness in the air and from its piratical tendencies; it harasses boobies, pelicans, cormorants, and gulls until they drop their catch. Man-o'-war birds feed chiefly on fish but also prey on the young of sea birds and on jellyfish, squid, and young turtles. They have long hooked beaks and forked tails; the male has an inflatable orange throat pouch that becomes red at courtship. Amongst Brazilians and ,native Cariocas and surfers, the frigate birds of Rio de Janeiro are also a symbol for liberty and freedom.

Please see below this fantastic photo of a Gaviota taken in Rio by Rafael Sieber from Flickr.



The purplish black magnificent frigate-bird, Fregata magnificens, 40 in. (100 cm) long, is found from the Bahamas and Baja California S to Brazil and Ecuador; the great frigate-bird, F. minor, is found in the Indian Ocean. Other species, e.g., the Ascension and Christmas Island frigate-birds, are named for their habitats. The lesser frigate-bird, the smallest (32 in./80 cm) of the family, is found in the South Pacific and on the islands off Brazil and Madagascar.



Above, a picture of a flock of Frigate Birds taken by CSERFATY within Rio-de-Janeiro State. This photo shows us the gaivotas can also fly in a large group!

The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition | 2008 | The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. Copyright 2008 Columbia University Press.

Last week, I visited one of the most famous historic landmarks of Brazil, the omnipresent Sugarloaf Mountain and its cable car inaugurated in 1912 in Rio-de-Janeiro. I hadn’t been there for quite a few years, so the experience would be extra special, since it would be the first time I would see it with eyes of someone working on the tourism field at the wonder city, like myself. It would be sort of a review of the “SugarLoaf experience" itself.



Sugar-Loaf Entrance:

The visit was planned on a Saturday, and it was not really packed, but sunny. There were many tourism buses, but no crowd at the Urca neighborhood in Rio. At the very entrance, I was glad I wasn’t approached by anyone selling me stuff, although I have the “gringo” look. The ticketing booths were relatively well displayed; the cue organized and looked very clean. Although I had problems with my half-price entrance ticket, (native Cariocas are discounted, but have to show ID + proof of residency), I was happy to hear so many different languages and accents at ticketing booth.


Sugar-Loaf Station I: anxiety for everyone

As soon as you pay and have the ticket in your hands, you get to see a very well made mock up of the Sugar-Loaf and Urca Mountains. I saw many people already flashing their cameras and being amazed with the project. Right after, I could see a nice souvenir shop, selling all kinds of well made design Rio and Sugar-Loaf products. ( If you are anxious to see the view, there is also a second souvenir shop at Station III).


The shop is well decorated and has English speaking salesmen. Prices of Sugar Loaf gifts were reasonable and creative. I was then directed to the first cable on to the Urca Mountain, and from the platform, we could see already the massive rock in front of us. The cable car that lifts us to the first stop takes approximately 3 minutes moving at a speed of 21.6 km/hour or 6 meters ( 18 feet ) per second. It has a capacity for up to 65 people, but had less than 30 this day.



Suspense in Sugar-Loaf Station II

Impressive and breath taking this first leg, where you can see the Red Beach - Praia Vermelha, the green and blue color tones of the Guanabara Bay & Rio-de-Janeiro shore. More flashes all around the cable car and much amusement could be seen during those lively 3 minutes. Once we reached the Urca Mountain - Station II, we could see everyone was already thrilled with the spectacular sight. At 721 feet we could see almost all of the wonderful city view: Niteroi, Christ the Redeemer Statue, Flamengo and Botafogo Beaches, Santos Dumont Airport, Rio-de-Janeiro ´s downtown, and part of Santa Teresa neighborhood…amazing!


The Sugar-Loaf´s general infrastructure has improved a lot, with visible security, Sugar Loaf workers in uniform, boards and signs indicating directions, trash cans, and water fountains. At the Urca Mountain station, where the “Station II” is located, there is also food kiosks, diapers' corner stands, and clean bathrooms. At this level, you can also check out a very interesting film that tells the story of the construction and evolution of the cable car ride, in wide amphitheater. For those real adventurous, there is a helipad too at Station II.

After watching the film, I directed myself to the second platform in order to take the cable car to Station III, where the SugarLoaf Mountain is located at 396 meters ( 1 300 feet ) above sea level. Just before I arrived at this platform, there is also an interesting spot worthwhile stopping by, which is old open-air cable car on display that was used in the '30´s. Many tourists entered this “antique cable car” imagining how it would be those days. This vintage cable car area was just a great location for the taking pictures.



As I embarked for the final up-wards stretch, I observed one procedure that could be perfected at the Pão de Açucar. Someone in my group lost the entrance ticket, which should be kept all the way until the end. The ticket is used in all turnstiles when entering the cable car. I remember someone telling me to keep the ticket, but I saw no sings re-emphasizing this necessity. I am not sure either this observance was stated in all languages…So just as a reminder, keep your Pao de Acucar ticket all the way until your exit!

Amusement in Sugar-Loaf Station III

At a reasonable speed of 10 meters per second, 31 km p/ hour, our cable car then rose to the final stop at Rio´s Sugar Loaf Mountain. The view on the way up was even more spectacular, as we could now see Copacabana, Leme, Ipanema beaches and Rio-de-Janeiro Oceanic Islands as we approached the tremendous mountain top. We could also see several mountain climbers on the face of the giant Pão de Acucar mountain, which impressed all tourists aboard. As we felt the cool breeze entering through the window shaft of the cable car, the bulky mass seemed even bigger and bigger. As soon as we finally landed, the sense of astonishment and awe was visible at the faces of all tourists.


Walking around Sugar-Loaf´s Station III was thrilling! The 360º Rio-de-Janeiro view points from this historic landmarks of Brazil was unimaginable to all accents. I could now see the many mountains that circumvent the wonder city, including Teresópolis´ “Dedo de Deus” peak which lies at the Órgãos Mountains at 2,959 feet, most of the Guanabara Bay, Niteroi´s shoreline, apart from the Oceanic Islands in front of Copacabana beach and Ipanema. Simply wonderful!




At Pão de Açucar´s Station III, there were also several shooting platforms perfect for your favorite photograph at this unimaginable scenery, as well as kiosks, an ecological park and an extra souvenir shop. Tourists and locals simply couldn’t avoid demonstrating their state of ecstasy; magical indeed: Many couples showing their love, children with their parents, friends just hanging out…The wind was blowing cool, the fantastic view of Rio-de-Janeiro in sunset, and my soul replenished...Do you want to know more, come to Rio! I felt then my mission had been accomplished. This Rio-de-Janeiro beauty could be then reviewed in a full article.



Below, I reproduced some factual information about this Rio-de-Janeiro classic:


Sugarloaf Mountain (in Portuguese, Pão de Açúcar), is a peak situated in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from the mouth of Guanabara Bay on a peninsula that sticks out into the Atlantic Ocean. Rising 396 metres (1,299 ft) above sea-level, its name is said to refer to its resemblance to the traditional shape of concentrated refined loaf sugar. However, it is believed by some that the name actually derives from Pau-nh-acuqua (“high hill”) in the Tupi-Guarani language, as used by the indigenous Tamoios.



Visitors can watch rock climbers on Sugarloaf and the other two mountains in the area: Morro da Babilônia (Babylon Mountain), and Morro da Urca (Urca's Mountain). Together, they form one of the largest urban climbing areas in the world, with more than 270 routes, between 1 and 10 pitched long. Some classic routes in Sugarloaf are:

• Italianos, 5.10a, 2 pitches. Beautiful and well protected face climbing. Can be connected to other routes, in a total of 6 pitches to the top.

• Stop Chimney, 5.6, 7 pitches. Classic runout but easy chimney.

• Lagartão, 5.11c, 7 pitches. First two pitches are traditional climbing, the rest is bolted.

• Ibis, 5.10d A1, 10 pitches. Runout and committed. Some parties climb it in one day, sleeping on one of the ledges in the first half of the route.


The mountain is only one of several monolithic morros of granite and quartz that rise straight from the water's edge around Rio de Janeiro. A glass-paneled cable car (in popular Portuguese, bondinho - more properly called teleférico), capable of holding 75 passengers, runs along a 1400-metre route between the peaks of Pão de Açúcar and Cara de Cão every 20 minutes. The original cable car line was built in 1912 and rebuilt around 1972/1973 in its current form. The cable car goes from the base, not the peak of the Babilônia mountain, to the Urca mountain and then to the Pão de Açúcar mountain.



The mountain may be known for its memorable scene in the 1979 James Bond movie, Moonraker, in which the villanous henchman Jaws attempts to kill 007 and the agent's ally, Dr. Holly Goodhead, on a tram, but instead is defeated at their hands when he comically flies through a 7 Up billboard by accident. So familiar is this peak, the mere sight of it in a film is considered sufficient to establish the setting as Rio de Janeiro.


Candidate to be one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. The Cable Car connects the base to the Morro da Urca, and then Morro da Urca to Sugar Loaf Mountain. Several personalities as Kennedy, Einstein and Lech Walesa have already enjoyed the trip and several other international celebrities.

Rodrigo Freitas Lagoon: History From 16th Century to today’s charm!

That Rodrigo Freitas Lagoon is one of the most charming districts in Rio-de-Janeiro, everybody knows. But what about its history? I bet few ( even amongst native Cariocas) know how the Lagoa District became the glamour spot as we see currently, with many restaurants like Mr.Lam Rio, Braz Pizzaria, Katmandu Sushi Lounge and the lovely Lagoa Kiosks. So let´s get to know a little bit of the district’s history and origins:

In the XVI century, there were some farms and mills in Jardim da Gávea, comprising the current neighborhoods Gávea, Jardim Botânico, and Lagoon itself. This area presented good lands for sugar cane plantation, which activity interested very much to the settlers in the beginning of Carioca’s life.
At the lake borders, which were known by the Indians as Sapopenipã - meaning lagoon of flat roots in Tupi-Guarani, and by the Portuguese people as lagoon of the socós, since there were loads of such birds in the region, it was settled the Engenho Del Rei (King’s Mill) by the Governor Antonio Salema, right after having expelled the French corsairs from Baía de Guanabara in 1575.


Rio-de-Janeiro old picture see below:



At the beginning of the XIX century, D. João VI when moving to Brazil, in 1808, arrived at Rio-de-Janeiro and, the first thing he did was to built a gunpowder factory so that his army and navy were able to protect the wonder city against possible French invasions. The location chosen to build the factory was within the lands around the lagoon, which was already named Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon. In order to such construction to be done, D. João VI reimbursed Rodrigo de Freitas family, and the factory was built this year. In 1826, the gunpowder factory built by D. João VI exploded and was, then, moved to Raiz da Serra on the way D. Pedro II used to make do get to Petrópolis, which was called Fábrica da Estrela (Star Factory). From half of XIX century, sugar cane production starts facing a crisis making some mills in the rural regions to become small farms.




On January 1, 1871, Jardim Botânico Railway Company, a company that got the first concession of mule trams in Rio-de-Janeiro, extended its railways to where today is Jardim Botânico neighborhood. Two years after, on December 17, 1873, the Company launched Gávea extension, which became “Freguesia" next year. Freguesia da Gávea, which comprised the current neighborhoods of Lagoa, Jardim Botânico, Gávea, Ipanema , Leblon, Vidigal, São Conrado, and part of Barra da Tijuca, reached in 1890 a population of 4.712 people.




Above, old photograph of the Lagoon.

At the end of the century, Freguesia da Gávea started to be filled by textile factories, and then, fast increasing population. In the first decade of XX century, in the urban reform program implemented by the Mayor Pereira Passos, it was performed Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon sanitation. In 1919, Mayor of Rio-de-Janeiro Paulo de Frontim, aiming at solving the lagoon sanitation problem decided for its salinization, but it was during Carlos Sampaio’s administration that such area started to be effectively urbanized, integrating, thus, the new and large "noble area" to the city. (In 1920, although the groundings, the Lagoon area were still closed to Humaitá and Marquês de São Vicente streets) . In 1922, the lagoon border was rounded by a beautiful avenue, which was used for building houses for the carioca high-society, this avenue was called Epitácio Pessoa Ave., honoring the President of Republic that time, Mr. Epitácio Pessoa. In 1926, it was founded the Brazilian Jockey Club, which remains in the same area until today.

Below, the elegance of Brazil´s Jockey Club, in the early century.



In the 50’s, the textile factories ‘Carioca’ and ‘Corcovado’ were closed in Rio-de-Janeiro, and their areas were urbanized, thus ending the industrial phase in the Neighborhood. At the same time, the shantytowns were withdrawn from the region where the poorest lived. During Governor Carlos Lacerda’s administration, the Rebouças tunnels were opened, which links Lagoon to Comprido, thus linking North to South.


At the beginning of the 70’s, the real state speculation occurred in a more aggressive way in the neighborhood which was targeted by the Construction Companies, which started to ground, even though they had no authorization from the City Hall, the Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon in order to build residential buildings. Thus, the Lagoon, which had already been suffered from the groundings since 1808, lost almost half of its original area. Several protests from people who lived there and architects like Oscar Niemeyer and Lucio Costa came out in order to make the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon and its border declared historical patrimony.

Below, we see Gavea Rock from the Lagoon:



In the 80’s, the attentions in Rio-de-Janeiro, were to Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon waters clean-up, where several projects were presented and some of them, having the private initiative help and international capital, were performed. However, only in the 90’s, Cariocas could appreciate the water mirror less polluted. It was in the last three decades of the century that the neighborhood got a good participation in Carioca’s nightlife with bars, discos and restaurants for all tastes.

Credit for Rio-de-Janeiro old school photos to Rio Passado from Flickr.

Hippie Fair Ipanema Rio

But Ipanema Rio is not only about eating and drinking. This district is home to several tribes that live in a harmony: the tourists, the surf crowd, the rich and famous, the new hippies, the jocks, the Rio gay friendly and the typical local resident. Maybe one of the reasons of Ipanema district success is exactly this heterogeneous environment that captivates mainstream and alternative vibrations. One of the greatest examples of this peaceful coexistence is the legendary Ipanema´s Hippie Fair.


Originally known as “Ipanema´s Handcraft and Arts Fair”, the Hippie Fair used to be a spot at the General Osório Square Rio where locals gathered to display their art in the late 60´s. By 1968, the Ipanema Hippie Fair established itself and became the world’s largest handcraft open art gallery and fair. Today, “Ipanema Hippie Fair” opens every Sunday from 09:00 AM to 02:00 PM and is definitely the best place in Rio for you to find that quintessential souvenir gift. Another great of shot of Ipanema Hippie Fair of Renato Sil, below:




At this Ipanema Hippie Fair , you will be able to find several kinds of Brazilian Native craftwork techniques including: wood, stone, canvas, clothing, leather, paper, metal, semi-precious gems, metal, bones and straw. One of the reasons why the Hippie Fair became “Hype” is exactly because of this heterodox atmosphere and constant evolution of its products in terms of fashion and glamour. Some example of this fashion products are the leather Franciscan sandals bought by Giorgio Armani, artsy-fashion ladies bags and real life Samba instruments.


Important notice: Don’t forget to bargain, as it is part of the culture, just like in many street markets around the world. Visit Rio, Visit Brazil!

Below, a classic picture of the famous Girl of Ipanema in the sixties. She has probably visited this Hippie-Fair several times...

Garcia D´Avila´s Diamond Square

One of the most important facts about Rio-de-Janeiro for the girls, the glamorous shopping block in Rio Ipanema´s Garcia D´Avila “Diamond Square” makes window-shopping an entertaining experience, and is an excellent way of getting to know the true spirit of hype-fashionable Cariocas. Garcia D Ávila´s Diamond Square encompasses Barão da Torre & Prudente de Morais Streets with Garcia D´Avila & Rua Maria Quitéria.

This fetching quadrilateral in Rio-de-Janeiro sells top fashion bikinis, glamour clothing, design jewelry, contemporary art furniture, Brazilian music & audio, collectors´ books, and expensive souvenirs to wealthy Brazilians and sophisticated tourists. The Garcia D’Ávila magical block, also known as the “Ipanema´s Diamond Square” has become the "in" place for the well-to-do Brazilian brands like Ellus, Rosana Bernardes, Lenny and branches of world-famous names like Cartier, Louis Vuitton and Puma. Two of the best Brazilian jewelers in Rio-de-Janeiro Amsterdam Sauer and H-Stern are located there and have permanent museums. The area also has a good number of enchanting restaurants like Alessandro & Frederico Café, fast-food spots and branches of international banks such as Citibank and Itaú Boston Fleet. If you really wish to find Rio-de-Janeiro best shopping, don´t miss Ipanema´s Diamond Square.

Below a picture of Livraria da Travessa, one of the best bookstores in town, close to Garcia D´Avila´s Diamond Square.

Flamengo District is definitely a Gourmet district. Some of the finest restaurants in town can also be found in this charming Rio neighborhood. We selected a few of these Gourmet restaurants in Flamengo District that you can´t miss. In this lovely neighborhood, there are restaurants serving many tastes, flavors, and pockets. Most of them are well rated by prestigious dining guides like Frommer´s and The New York Times. You can chose between five-star meat, romantic settings, French bistros, wine bars, and even top of class “kilo” restaurants. Below is a small summary we prepared of Porcao Rio, Alcaparras, and other delicious dining settings in Flamengo area .



PORCÃO RIO´S FLAMENGO

A mass carnivorous orgy, Porcao Rio´s is where you go not to sample or taste or nibble, but to munch and stuff and gorge yourself on some of the best beef the world has to offer -- in this case served up with some of the best views in the world.

Porcão is a “churrascaria” (a chain, in fact; there are several in Rio, but this one has the best view) operating on the rodízio system. It's one price for all you can eat (dessert and drinks are extra), and once you sit down, onslaught of waiters comes bearing all manner and variety of meat (steak cuts, roast cuts, filet mignon, chicken breast, chicken hearts, sausage of diverse kinds, and much more) which they slice to perfection on your plate. The "stop sign" card you receive is supposed to regulate this serving army -- green means go ahead, and red says no more -- but considering how little respect Cariocas have for red lights in general, it's hardly surprising that waiters keep coming no matter how abjectly you wave your little red surrender sign.

Oh, and don't forget the nonmeat dishes: Included in your meal is a buffet with dozens of antipasto items, hot and cold seafood dishes, and at least 15 different kinds of salads and cheeses.

Additional Information on Porcão Rios: ● Address: Avenida Infante Dom Henrique s/n, Flamengo Park . ● Open Hours: Daily 11:30am-1am ● Phone: (21) 2554-8535 ● Prices: R$58 (US$24) per person all-you-can-eat meat and buffet. 50% discount for children 6-9, free for children under 6 ● Credit Cards: AE, DC, MC, V ● How to get there: by cab, since you can´t reach it through bus.



Emporio Santa Fé

This lovely two-story restaurant overlooking the Flamengo Park is one of the best restaurants at this charming Rio district. The ground floor has a small wine bar and a few tables but you really want to head upstairs and, if possible, grab one of the window tables in the elegant L-shaped dining room. The chef's forte is pasta; all dishes are made fresh and combine some creative flavors. We loved the ravioli with prawns in a leek sauce with mushrooms as well as the Tortele Tricolor, pasta rounds stuffed with smoked ricotta, figs, and Parma ham. Steak lovers have plenty to choose from, including filet mignon medallions with grilled Brie and potatoes, or grilled tournedos in a balsamic jus, served with rice and mushrooms. Empório Santa Fé´s wine list is probably one of the largest in Rio, and has over 400 options covering most of the world's regions, many reasonably priced (under R$60/US$25.)


Additional Information on Empório Santa Fé: Address: Praia do Flamengo 2, ● Phone: (21) 2551-1278 ● Prices: R$30-R$60 (US$13-US$25) per person ● Credit Cards: AE, DC, MC, V ● How to get there: any bus that rides through Flamengo Beach – “Praia do Flamngo”

Julieta de Serpa at Flamnego District in Rio-de-Janeiro




Casa de Arte e Cultura Julieta de Serpa

One of the most elegant venues in the city, this lovely neoclassical mansion has just been converted into a fabulous cultural complex. The Salon d'Or, one of the former grand salons, is now used as a tearoom, serving a deluxe high tea (R$49/US$21) that is more like a full meal (forget about dinner plans). Tea includes cheesecake, Black forest cake, a variety of breads, savory mil-feuilles with prawns, mushrooms, or palm heart and many other treats.

The main dining room, Blason, is open for lunch and dinner. On weekdays it serves a great executive lunch which includes a choice of an appetizer, a main course (fish or meat) and a dessert for R$59 (US$25). A la Carte main courses include more elaborate dishes such as rabbit with a black olive risotto or duck with apples and red cabbage. For lighter meals and a more intimate setting, there's the Provence Bistro; open for lunch and dinner on most days, the menu includes sandwiches, salads, pastas, risottos, and omelets. In the afternoons, a fabulous spread of sweets and savory treats is served here as well25.

The J-Club (pronounced Jay-Club) has recently started hosting jazz and bossa nova concerts. Check the website or call for updated programming; cover R$25 (US$11), shows usually start around 9pm.

Additional Information on Julieta de Serpa: Address: Praia do Flamengo, 340 ● Phone: (55-21) 2551-1278 ● Cuisine: Bistro, French, Tea Salon ● Work Hours: Lunch Tues-Sun 12:00-4pm; dinner 7pm-midnight ● Prices: Main courses R$ 30-R$60 (U$13-U$25) per person ● Credit Cards: AE. DC, MC V ● How to get there: any bus that rides through Flamengo Beach – “Praia do Flamngo”


ALCAPARRA

Alcaparra is considered one of the most romantic restaurants in town. Usually it is pretty full but there's always room at the bar to wait for a table. The waiting is not usually long. It has a nice view over the park and the decoration is done with pearl color fabrics on the ceiling and on the couches and chairs. Ivy and flowers seem to crawl up the roman columns. The meal is perfectly served with great care in the presentation. They are proud of having very good wine cellar and the waiters are marvelous. There are plenty of them and eager to serve you. The chef usually comes to ask if you are enjoying the meal. It is an expensive meal, but due to the serving, the food and the atmosphere it is definitely worth it!

Below. Alcaparra Restaurant



Additional Information on Alcaparra´s: Cuisine: Eclectic/International ● Address: Praia do Flamengo District, 150 ● Phone: (21) 2557-7236 ● Open Hours: Monday to Sunday from noon to the last client ● Price Range: US$21-30 per person ● Credit Cards: Cash, Visa, Amex, MasterCard, Diners

Estação da República

The Estação is top of the heap in that unique Brazilian category, the kilo restaurant. It offers a daily selection of at least 20 salads, a range of pastas, and many Brazilian favorites such as feijoada (bean stew), vatapá (seafood stew), and bóbó (shrimp stew). Fancier dishes include carpaccio and sushi. The pièce de résistance is the grill in the back of the restaurant where skilled chefs serve you a choice of beef, Chicken, and a wide assortment of fish. It's a great place for children; they can see the food and try as much or as little as they like. Make your selection, weigh your plate, and find yourself a seat; drinks are served at your table. If the ground floor looks packed, take the escalator up to the second floor for more tables.

Additional Information on Estação da República Restaurant: Address: Rua do Catete 104 International ● Phone: 21 - 2225-2650 International ● Open Hours: Daily 11am-midnight International ● Price Range: per kilo style; R$30 (US$13) per kilo International ● Credit Cards: Cash, Visa, Amex, MasterCard, Diners International ● How to get there: Subway stop at Catete Station.

Belmonte Bar

Last but not least, lets talk now about the editors favorite neighborhood food pick: Belmonte Bar. An old-fashioned botequim with the bright lights, dark wood furniture and tile floors, the Belmonte serves up great beer, sandwiches, and snacks at almost any time of the day, but in the evenings and on weekend afternoons things get really hopping: Patrons spill out on the sidewalk, making do with improvised tables made out of barrels. Although now a local chain with brand-new old-fashioned Belmonte's in Lagoa, Ipanema, and Copacabana, this Belmonte unit remains as the best one, miles away from other one. Originally, Belmonte was a street bar used by taxi drivers serving cachaça and quick meals. It was bought and renovated in the nineties and became a huge success. My favorite snack is the "bolinho de bacalhau" or codfish cake, sold for US$ 2,00. The draft beer served there is simply incomparable. Thursday is the best day to go to Belmonte, where all neighborhood locals gather. Take cash or debit cards since they don´t accept credit cards. Belmonte is located at Praia do Flamengo,300 ● How to get there: any bus that rides through Flamengo Beach – “Praia do Flamngo”



So what are you waiting?? Come visit this lovely charming district in Rio - Flamengo Area!

Most people would agree to say that getting around a city is one of the most important issues when trying to understand our travel destination. Some people consider it fundamental, even when picking for a travel destination. The ideal scenario is to have a thorough notion of the city transport alternatives before your arrival, so you can feel safe and comfortable. This is why we decided to write a basic guide on the public transportation facilities and some important facts about Rio. When do we pick a taxi or ride a bus? How do regular buses look like in Rio-de-Janeiro What is the color of the cabs in Rio? How much does an executive bus and average taxi ride cost? What are the transportation options locals prefer? What are the main subway stations used by locals? These are some of the questions you will see answered at this post.


Rio is a large city, but most of what goes on is concentrated within a small area. Just like Manhattan in New York, once in Rio-de-Janeiro, you do not need to worry about transportation if you follow basic rules. Generally speaking, it is very simple to get around in town, following the shoreline. Most of the places you will ever visit are all within a radius of 15 miles. Rio de Janeiro offers a number of public and private transportation options. These include regular city buses, executive bus (called “Frescao”), subway (metro), taxis, van and even a Ferry service (to Niteroi and other touristic islands like Paquetá). Check out below main transport facilities at the wonder city.





Regular City Bus
Regular city bus in Rio-de-Janeirois a very inexpensive form of travel which costs about R$2.10 to ride. They come in both non air conditioned (R$2.10) and air conditioned versions (R$2.25 - R$2.40). In past years, city buses suffered from criminals targeting the passengers but they are safer these days. During the day, it is a decent transportation option if you know the routes and are in safer areas of the city. However, they may not be the best option late at night.

Click on this videoclip link to see a typical ride on the Rio Subway and a regular city bus.

Services operate 24 hours and are relatively safe – incidences of crime are rare, although travelers must exercise caution during rush hour and at night, when pickpockets prey. Tickets are available for purchase from the conductor, who sits next to the turnstile at the back of the bus. See below a picture of regular bus in Rio-de-Janeiro. Again, try using regular buses day-time with your friends, but don´t carry jewelry or expensive wear.




Executive Bus (Frescao)
There is also another type of local bus called the “Frescao”, which means in Portuguese “very fresh” and commonly used by locals. This type of bus runs on a route from Centro through Botafogo, Copacabana, Ipanema and to Leblon (and vice versa). It is more upscale/comfortable and is air conditioned and costs R$3.50. All Frescaos are have the same visual identity (see below). The Frescão that rides from the Rio International Airport to Barra costs R$ 6.00. However, it is only available during the week. These buses also run more frequently during the rush hours in the morning and evening. Going in the direction of Centro, the bus can be flagged down on the beach road (Buses with plaques showing "Castelo"). Coming from Centro, the bus starts off from the Menezes Cortes garage and runs on a road parallel to the beach (but one or two blocks in). It runs on Barata Ribeiro through Copacabana, Prudente de Morais through Ipanema and Av. General San Martin through Leblon.

Well you do have the executive buses going every where in Rio-de-Janeiro and not just on the rush hours but all the time during week period. It’s a wiser decision to get the executive buses than the regular one, especially if you are a tourist in the city. Prices of the Frescão do vary depending on its route. As an example, it´s not the same price to go Copacabana from the Downtown as to go to Barra da Tijuca or Recreio from Downtown. We strongly recommend this transportation option in Rio: they are very safe, practical and can take you to most places in Rio, including both airports. See below a picture of a Frescão executive bus in Rio.




Rio de Janeiro Taxis/Cabs

Rio-de-Janeiro has a very extensive taxi fleet which includes yellow metered cabs which can be hailed in the streets, as well as a series of special taxis operated by licensed companies which can be found at the airports, in front of our rental apartment’s buildings or booked by phone. The yellow taxis operate with a meter and can be hailed on the street. The flag, or “bandeira” in Portuguese, indicates the tariff and usually reads ‘1’. However, after 23:00, on Sunday and on holidays the tariff will be ‘2’, which indicates a price hike of about 20%. Taxis are fairly priced, although some late-night drivers might quote excessive fixed prices. Travellers should check that the meter is reset and indicates the correct tariff. The minimum fare is currently R$2.70. Tourists are strongly advised to only use taxis that have an official identification sticker in the window. Cabs in Rio-de-Janeiro are a very popular choice, even amongst locals. Definitely use them to go home from faraway places, like samba rehearsals, and parties.

See below a picture of a regular taxi/cab in Rio:



Special Taxis
Special taxis – either blue or red – or white, operate from the airports and some specific locations. Payment is by pre-paid vouchers, which are available for purchase at airport kiosks. Radio taxis are safe and reliable but 30% more expensive than yellow taxis. Providers include Central de Táxi (Phone: 21- 2593 2598), Coopertramo and Transcopass (Phone: 21 - 2560 4888). The minimum fare for radio taxis is currently R$ 3.10. Brazilians generally do not tip taxi drivers, although rounding the total fare up to the nearest Real is appreciated. Try to avoid these. We consider this a very expensive option. It is used mainly by executives.


Subway – Metro Rio
Lastly, we will describe the subway system: The “Rio de Janeiro Metro” (Metrô Rio) is a mass-transit underground railway network that serves the city of Rio-de-Janeiro, Brazil. The subways system was founded in 1979 with five stations operating on one line, it now includes 32 stations and two separate lines and serves on average nearly half a million passengers per day. The system currently consists of two lines: Line 1 which serves the city's downtown business center, tourist areas in the city's South Zone, and several neighborhoods in the North Zone; and Line 2, which serves working-class residential neighborhoods extending toward the north.
The price of a ticket is no more than R$2.40. Follows below the stations listed for Line 1 and Line 2 of the Rio Metro Subway System:


Line 1 (Center and South Area )
Saens Pena; Sao F. Xavier; Afonso Penna; Estacio; Praca Onze; Central; Pres. Vargas; Uruguaiana; Carioca; Cinelandia; Gloria; Catete; Lgo. Machado; Flamengo; Botafogo; C. Arco Verde; Siqueira Campos

Line 2 (North Area):
Pavuna; Eng Rubens Paiva; Acari F: Botafogo; Coelho Neto; Colegio; Iraja; V. de Carvalho; Thomaz Coelho; Eng da Rainha; Inhauma; Del Castilho; Maria da Graca; Triagem; Maracana; Sao Cristovao; Estacio.




See above a map of the Rio de Janeiro Subway Stations.

Although the subway system in Rio-de-Janeiro just doesn't the entire city, it considered to be an excellent service by locals. Metro Rio has been very helpful to reduce the traffic jams and to reach destinations like downtown (e.g. former Itamaraty Palace) or Zona Norte (e.g. Maracana Stadium) in a really short time, in a safe way, and at a cheap price (one-way ticket is 2.40 reais). You should definitely use it to go to the Maracana Stadium. For a full review on Metro Rio´s system, please read this expert review.

As a final note, we would like to re-enforce some basic tips. Generally speaking, prefer to use taxi cabs to get from one place to another, even more when travelling in a group a 3, 4 or 5. They are abundant, fairly cheap and safe. When possible, try to use the executive bus, a.k.a. “Frescao”, especially if alone and from and to the airport. When deciding for regular buses, use them only with locals, during day-time, and carrying no expensive wear. Subway is an excellent facility to the Maracana stadium and city centre: very modern and comfortable. Lastly, try to read a little bit of the neighborhood you are settling in before arriving. See you in Rio!

Much have been said about Rio-de Janeiro ´s police, but tourists need not to worry. Rarely conflicts reach prime areas such as Rio ´s South Zone. Belavista-Rio wrote a series of Rio Security Tips to make sure you avoid unwanted hassles during your stay. Additionally, we described below the four types of police uniforms in Rio-de- Janeiro, so you can easily identify them in case you need some help or assistance:


Regular Military Police is in charge for combating the criminal activities and maintaing the public order in Rio de Janeiro. They are dressed in blue and grey uniforms, with black boots, as seen below. The also wear a black vest and white caps. Today, there are over 40.000 Military Police troopers in town, with 39 Battaglions.

See picture below of Military Police of the State of Rio de Janeiro.



Municipal Guard in Rio-de-Janeiro is in charge for the supervision of traffic, beach patrolling and minor types of criminal occurrences. They are dressed in a brown uniform; brown pants, khaki shirts and white cap. The Municipal Guard troop doesn’t regularly use fire arms.

See below picture of Municipal Guard of the wonder city.




The third type of policemen found in Rio is formed by the National Force. This elite police is usually called upon special occasions like the Pan American Games, important conferences or presidential visits in Rio-de-Janeiro. They are easily identified by their camouflage uniform, black fire proof vest, and red berets. See below uniform of National Force:



Finally, the last type of police that can be seen in Rio is the Battalion of Special Operations-BOPE. This elite troop became worldwide famous because of the successful motion picture “Elite Squad”, which portrays some of the activities performed by this hardcore police. They wear a black uniform and are rarely seen close to the tourists’ scene. They can also be identified by their intimidating badge, which has a skull, crossed by 2 guns and a knife. See below BOPE uniform in action:



The Wonder City also has a battalion strictly dedicated to foreign tourists, and is called “DEAT” . The District for Attending to Tourists DEAT is a special branch of the Civil Police and is made up of a Delegate (Superintendent), detectives and clerks responsible for investigating and recording occurrences. The DEAT has its own offices conveniently located in Leblon in front of the Casa Grande and Scala theaters. The District was instituted and the police officers specifically trained to solve incidents involving foreign visitors.

Follow this link to Google Maps to the access this tourist battalion.


Please see address below for DEAT District:


Delegacia de Atendimento ao Turista - DEAT
Address: Av. Afrânio de Mello Franco, s / nº - Leblon
22430-060
Phone: (55 21) 3399-7565 / 69
(55 21) 3399-7457 call center
(55 21) 3399-7562 intelligence service.
Fax: (55 21) 3399-7450

Even in vacations, we know emergencies may happen. Thinking about our clients in Rio, we decided to appoint a top quality dentistry clinic in Rio which we describe below:

DENTAL DOCTOR is a full dentistry clinic in Rio de Janeiro devoted to treating foreign and local patients in a clean, modern medical environment. The dentists at DENTAL DOCTOR are fully trained and licensed to practice in their clinic at the Ipanema district in Rio.

They can perform a full complement of dental procedures.
Our warm and inviting clinic in Rio de Janeiro offers the following services:

• Cleanings
• Cavities and Fillings
• Whitening
• Straightening with Invisible braces
• Crowns
• Veneers
• Periodontal Disease and Gum Treatment
• Root Canal Therapy
• Extractions
• Wisdom Teeth
• Fixed Bridge
• Implants
• Dentures
• Sealants



All DENTAL DOCTOR´s services are made with top quality materials.

Our staff of dentists will always begin with a full examination. The doctor will diagnose your dental needs and will give you a complete treatment plan during the initial consultation. The dentist and qualified staff members will explain all of the procedures that are recommended for your treatment plan. Once you and the dentist have agreed on a course of treatment, the doctor will begin the work the same day. DENTAL DOCTOR ´s skilled dentists Tatiana Sampaio (Dentist License CRO RJ 31822) and Fernanda Campana (Dentist License CRO RJ 31726 ) are experienced in the latest dental procedures. They can often complete a full mouth restoration in as little as one week.



Give DENTAL DOCTOR a call. Come experience high quality dental treatment in our friendly facility in Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro. Email a question to the dentist or inquire about scheduling an appointment. You will find your experience in Rio to be both affordable and satisfying.

Contact Information: Av. Visconde de Pirajá, 303/601 Ipanema

Rio de Janeiro, RJ - Tel: 21 2227-4026
E-mail: fernandacampana@hotmail.com