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Rio de Janeiro, in southeast Brazil, is one of South America's most famous hubs of energy
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and excitement.
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Rio fills the narrow strip between the Atlantic Ocean and the Serra do Mar coastal forest,
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and is home to some sixteen million people.
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In Rio de Janeiro, the soft glow of dawn reveals golden shores,
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and an urban jungle dotted with mountain peaks.
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At this early hour, the coastline is a sea of serenity,
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but soon enough energetic locals fill the scene.
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Rio's seductive beaches have a rejuvenating effect that appeals to everyone.
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With each sunrise, the city readies itself to put on a brand new show.
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Cariocas, as the residents are known,
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take pride in expressing themselves in less conventional ways.
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Even the city's main house of worship is unorthodox.
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The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian is modeled after a Mayan temple,
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a staircase to the sun.
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But it's the statue of Christ the Redeemer that takes center stage on Rio's skyline.
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Take the 20-minute ride through the Tijuca rainforest to the top of Corcovado Mountain,
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and stand at the feet of this world-famous landmark.
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With arms outstretched in a gesture of peace,
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this statue of Jesus gazes down upon all of Rio, from the waterfront neighborhoods,
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to the poor "Favelas" that cling to the mountain slopes.
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Just across the water lays Rio's most iconic peak, Sugarloaf Mountain. Hang on tight,
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as the cable car carries you to the lookout,
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then relax and enjoy the views over the city, bay, and beaches below.
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People from all walks of life are drawn to
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Rio de Janeiro's most talked about beach: Copacabana.
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It's usually packed with sun worshippers,
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but you can always find room to move out on its calm waters.
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If you are looking for waves, head out to Prainha.
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This protected eco-park lacks high-rise hotels and is a nice contrast to Rio's other beaches.
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Closer to downtown, Barra da Tijuca, and Ipanema Beach,
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are great places for people-watching, or a game of volleyball with the locals.
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In Ipanema, shop for souvenirs at the Sunday Hippie Fair.
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Or join the dancers during the street parties that often erupt here around Carnaval and
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New Year.
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At times it's as if Rio is one big parade of Samba,...Capoeira,...and Carnaval!
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In the heart of the city, is Cinelândia.
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This historic square is home to the eclectic Municipal Theater and the National Museum
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of Fine Arts.
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Admire works by some of Brazil's greatest artists.
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And see how the Portuguese left their mark on this city when they first arrived on New
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Year's Day in 1502.
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Discover Brazil's pre-colonial times, at the National History Museum.
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Located close to the port, the building was once part of the city's defenses.
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Rio is blessed with elegant public parks, such as Parque Henrique Lage.
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The formal gardens of Quinta da Boa Vista surround the Imperial Palace,
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the home of Brazilian royalty before the country declared itself a republic.
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The local lust for life is reflected in the cuisine,
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whether it be a traditional feast of grilled meat,
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or simply a cool drink straight from a coconut. But of course,
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nothing ignites the passion of Rio's residents like football.
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Even between games, a visit the Maracanã Football Stadium will give you a taste of
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this national obsession.
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Don't leave Rio before walking the Selarón Steps.
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The eccentric artist Jorge Selarón devoted much of his life,
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paving the way for a more colourful passage from the bohemian Santa Teresa area,
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to the nightlife district of Lapa. Tiles were donated from all over the world,
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resulting in a remarkable mosaic.
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No wonder they call Rio de Janeiro the "Cidade Maravilhosa",...the marvelous city.
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Seeing the sun set over Guanabara Bay, is like watching the finale of a spectacular
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show.
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When the curtain goes down, you can't help but wait, for the encore...