When to Visit - Arts and Events

This lively city joins in with Brazil's most famous event - 'Carnaval'. The five-day extravaganza starts at midnight on the Friday before 'Ash' Wednesday. Fantastic parades, colourful costumes and an exciting rhythmical sound, demonstrates street entertainment at its best. Visitors are welcome to take part.

Rio de Janeiro Dining

Rio is a paradise of fine dining in which almost every kind of international cuisine is available but the local dishes are well worth experiencing. The national dish 'feijoada' consists of black beans and pork served with rice, kale and manioc. Another favourite is 'churrasco', huge chunks of barbecued beef, or pork served with manioc and onions. In many of these steak houses a set price secures customers as much meat as they can eat. Seafood is a speciality in Rio with fresh lobster, shrimp and shellfish appearing on a large number of restaurant menus. 'Caipirinha' made from cane sugar rum, limejuice and sugar is Brazil's delicious but highly potent alcoholic drink that can 'slide down' just a touch too easily; so beware!

Rio de Janeiro Tipping Advice

Taxi drivers do not expect substantial tips, whilst hotel staff are likely to expect at least one BRC. Generally, consider giving a tip of between 10 and 15 percent in restaurants. Remember not to tip public servants, as the action may easily be misinterpreted as a bribe.