Saturday, July 10, 2004
Travel Information About Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is the name for both the State and the City. Within the State of Rio de Janeiro DiscoverBrazil has selected Rio de Janeiro the City, Buzios, Paraty and Itaipava as sub-destinations we sell.
Rio de Janeiro, was discovered on January (Janeiro) 1, 1502 by Portuguese navigators who mistook the entrance of Guanabara Bay for the mouth of a river (Rio). Sixty years later because French traders in search of pau-brasil (Brazilwood) were routinely 'visiting' the area the Portuguese crown established the city of Sao Sebastiao do Rio de Janeiro. After 2 years of bloody conflict the French were expelled and settlers began to cultivate the surrounding fertile lands. In the beginning of the 18th century the city's importance and population increased immensely as it became the main shipping port for gold and diamonds that came from Minas Gerais. In 1763 the colonial capital of Brazil was transfered from Salvador, Bahia to Rio. In 1808, as Napoleon's armies began the invasion of Portugal, the decision was made to transfer the monarch and his court to Rio de Janeiro, where he would remain until 1821. During this time Brasil was elevated in status from a colony to United Kingdom with Portugal. With the advent of Independence Rio became the capital of the new empire. The city prospered economically, and by 1891 it had a population of over 500,000 inhabitants ranking it one of the largest cities in the world. As the city grew in prominence mountains were removed, bay water reclaimed, and skyscrapers constructed.
With the inauguration of Brasilia in 1960, Rio de Janeiro ceased to be Brazil's capital. Even today discussion is rife concerning whether Rio was improved or hurt by the transfer of the government. In any event, this second largest city in Brazil is still a major cultural capital and, to some extent, its 'emotional' capital as well. Rio de Janeiro has a majestic beauty, with built-up areas nestled between a magnificent bay and dazzling beaches on one side and an abruptly rising mountain range, covered by a luxuriant tropical forest, on the other. This unique landscape makes Rio one of the most beautiful cities in the world, justifying its title of 'Marvelous City' (Cidade Maravilhosa). Rio's cultural life is intense and varied. Perhaps at no time is the city's festive reputation better displayed than during the annual carnaval which enlivens the city for 3 solid days with music, singing, parties, balls, and desfiles (street parades of brilliantly-costumed dancers performing the samba.) Economically it is a service industry center, a key financial center, and the producer of foodstuffs, building materials, electrical equipment, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and textiles. But it is in the pursuit of leisure that Rio is outstanding. With its world famous beaches free to all (such as Copacabana and Ipanema), its splendid bay, one of the loveliest in the world, and its wonderful climate, a blend of summer and springtime, Rio de Janeiro is a city that lives in and for the sun. Its population is around 5,750,000 inhabitants.
If you would like further information about Rio de Janeiro please click on the links below:
Rio de Janeiro History
Rio de Janerio Culture
Rio de Janeiro Natural Aspects
Rio de Janeiro Cuisine
Rio de Janeiro Weather
Rio de Janeiro Travel Tips
If you would like further information about Rio de Janeiro sub-destinations please click on the links below:
Information About Rio de Janeiro the City
Information About Buzios
Information About Paraty
Information About Itaipava
Rio de Janeiro is the name for both the State and the City. Within the State of Rio de Janeiro DiscoverBrazil has selected Rio de Janeiro the City, Buzios, Paraty and Itaipava as sub-destinations we sell.
Rio de Janeiro, was discovered on January (Janeiro) 1, 1502 by Portuguese navigators who mistook the entrance of Guanabara Bay for the mouth of a river (Rio). Sixty years later because French traders in search of pau-brasil (Brazilwood) were routinely 'visiting' the area the Portuguese crown established the city of Sao Sebastiao do Rio de Janeiro. After 2 years of bloody conflict the French were expelled and settlers began to cultivate the surrounding fertile lands. In the beginning of the 18th century the city's importance and population increased immensely as it became the main shipping port for gold and diamonds that came from Minas Gerais. In 1763 the colonial capital of Brazil was transfered from Salvador, Bahia to Rio. In 1808, as Napoleon's armies began the invasion of Portugal, the decision was made to transfer the monarch and his court to Rio de Janeiro, where he would remain until 1821. During this time Brasil was elevated in status from a colony to United Kingdom with Portugal. With the advent of Independence Rio became the capital of the new empire. The city prospered economically, and by 1891 it had a population of over 500,000 inhabitants ranking it one of the largest cities in the world. As the city grew in prominence mountains were removed, bay water reclaimed, and skyscrapers constructed.
With the inauguration of Brasilia in 1960, Rio de Janeiro ceased to be Brazil's capital. Even today discussion is rife concerning whether Rio was improved or hurt by the transfer of the government. In any event, this second largest city in Brazil is still a major cultural capital and, to some extent, its 'emotional' capital as well. Rio de Janeiro has a majestic beauty, with built-up areas nestled between a magnificent bay and dazzling beaches on one side and an abruptly rising mountain range, covered by a luxuriant tropical forest, on the other. This unique landscape makes Rio one of the most beautiful cities in the world, justifying its title of 'Marvelous City' (Cidade Maravilhosa). Rio's cultural life is intense and varied. Perhaps at no time is the city's festive reputation better displayed than during the annual carnaval which enlivens the city for 3 solid days with music, singing, parties, balls, and desfiles (street parades of brilliantly-costumed dancers performing the samba.) Economically it is a service industry center, a key financial center, and the producer of foodstuffs, building materials, electrical equipment, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and textiles. But it is in the pursuit of leisure that Rio is outstanding. With its world famous beaches free to all (such as Copacabana and Ipanema), its splendid bay, one of the loveliest in the world, and its wonderful climate, a blend of summer and springtime, Rio de Janeiro is a city that lives in and for the sun. Its population is around 5,750,000 inhabitants.
If you would like further information about Rio de Janeiro please click on the links below:
Rio de Janeiro History
Rio de Janerio Culture
Rio de Janeiro Natural Aspects
Rio de Janeiro Cuisine
Rio de Janeiro Weather
Rio de Janeiro Travel Tips
If you would like further information about Rio de Janeiro sub-destinations please click on the links below:
Information About Rio de Janeiro the City
Information About Buzios
Information About Paraty
Information About Itaipava
Travel Information About Bahia, Brazil
Enchanted by exuberant nature and rich heritage, the state of Bahia offers a myriad of experiences. From virgin beaches to the most historical center of Brazil in Salvador, its capital, Bahia presents an abundance of locations to explore. Salvador, Praia do Forte, Chapada Diamantina (which includes Lencois and Mucuge), Morro de São Paulo, Itacaré, and Porto Seguro (which includes Trancoso and Arraial D'Ajuda) will delight the inquisitive mind and will make your spirit soar to new heights.
Salvador became the first capital of Brazil in 1549, when the Portuguese court sent Tomé de Souza as the country’s initial governor-general. The city has a wealth of beautifully restored colonial architecture and according to legend; Salvador has 365 churches, one for each day of the year. It has the reputation of being the center of Brazilian culture and with its racially mixed population of 2.2 million, Salvador is Brazil’s third largest city and capital of the state of Bahia. The religion and mysticism that are so much a part of Bahian life are represented by Catholicism, brought over by the Portuguese and Candomblé, the pulse of the city, which came over with the slaves from Africa. They also brought with them Capoeira, a mix between dance and martial art, which is practiced all over the city and the state. Carnival here is one of the biggest in the world, encouraging active participation with thousands of people dancing in the streets, traditionally enjoying their one last fling before Lent. The city is constantly alive with the sounds and rhythms of samba, axé, pagode, MPB, and African drum beats. Salvador is blessed with one of the best cuisines in the country and also with marvelous beaches.
If you would like further information on Bahia please click on the links below:
Bahia History
Bahia Culture
Bahia Natural Aspects
Bahia Cuisine
Bahia Weather
Bahia Travel Tips
If you would like further information on Bahian sub-destinations please click on the links below:
Information About Salvador
Information About Praia do Forte
Information About Chapada Diamantina
Information About Itacare
Information About Morro de Sao Paulo
Information About Porto Seguro
Enchanted by exuberant nature and rich heritage, the state of Bahia offers a myriad of experiences. From virgin beaches to the most historical center of Brazil in Salvador, its capital, Bahia presents an abundance of locations to explore. Salvador, Praia do Forte, Chapada Diamantina (which includes Lencois and Mucuge), Morro de São Paulo, Itacaré, and Porto Seguro (which includes Trancoso and Arraial D'Ajuda) will delight the inquisitive mind and will make your spirit soar to new heights.
Salvador became the first capital of Brazil in 1549, when the Portuguese court sent Tomé de Souza as the country’s initial governor-general. The city has a wealth of beautifully restored colonial architecture and according to legend; Salvador has 365 churches, one for each day of the year. It has the reputation of being the center of Brazilian culture and with its racially mixed population of 2.2 million, Salvador is Brazil’s third largest city and capital of the state of Bahia. The religion and mysticism that are so much a part of Bahian life are represented by Catholicism, brought over by the Portuguese and Candomblé, the pulse of the city, which came over with the slaves from Africa. They also brought with them Capoeira, a mix between dance and martial art, which is practiced all over the city and the state. Carnival here is one of the biggest in the world, encouraging active participation with thousands of people dancing in the streets, traditionally enjoying their one last fling before Lent. The city is constantly alive with the sounds and rhythms of samba, axé, pagode, MPB, and African drum beats. Salvador is blessed with one of the best cuisines in the country and also with marvelous beaches.
If you would like further information on Bahia please click on the links below:
Bahia History
Bahia Culture
Bahia Natural Aspects
Bahia Cuisine
Bahia Weather
Bahia Travel Tips
If you would like further information on Bahian sub-destinations please click on the links below:
Information About Salvador
Information About Praia do Forte
Information About Chapada Diamantina
Information About Itacare
Information About Morro de Sao Paulo
Information About Porto Seguro
Travel Information About Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
With crystalline waters and an exuberance of corals, dolphins, lobsters and colorful tropical fish, as well as wonderfully preserved beaches and virtually no pollution, Fernando de Noronha is a paradise for divers, surfers and all nature lovers. This beautiful and peaceful island is part of a volcanic archipelago of 21 islands which lie 345km off the northeast coast of Brazil. For years, a military outpost off-limits to visitors, this unspoiled island was declared a Marine National Park in 1988 and is now protected by IBAMA (the Brazilian Institute for the Environment). To preserve the unspoiled environment, only 420 tourists are allowed on the island at any one time, guaranteeing empty beaches and tranquility for the visitor at all times, as well as the opportunity to commune with nature.
The islands were discovered in 1503 by the Portuguese explorer Amérigo Vespucci and were for a time a pirate lair. In 1738 the Portuguese built the Forte dos Remédios, later used as a prison in this century, and a church to strengthen their claim to the islands. A few scattered remains of the early fortifications still exist. Apart from the thousands of migratory birds that stop off at the island on their way south, the waters surrounding the island are filled with hundreds of playful dolphins, turtles, multi-colored fish, corals, sponges and other marine plants. It is no wonder, therefore, that Fernando de Noronha is the best place for scuba diving and snorkelling in Brazil. As well as excellent underwater activities, Fernando de Noronha is also the mecca for Brazilian surfers who come to ride the 2 meter waves (sometimes reaching as high as 5 meters) on the sandy beaches facing Brazil´s Atlantic coast. The best surf beaches are Cacimba do Padre, Bode, Boldró, Conceição, and Meio.
Riding, mountain biking and walking to some of the remoter beaches are also popular. There are interesting natural rock sculptures at the Baía dos Porcos beach, a waterfall at Praia do Sancho during the rainy season and a heavenly natural swimming pool among the rocks at Praia do Atalaia. The Morro do Pico is the highest point on the island at 321 meters (1,053 ft) and offers a splendid view of the archipelago, especially at sunset. The island has warm and pleasant temperatures of around 26°C (79°C )all year round, with a refreshing rainy season from February to July. The best time for diving is from April to November, when the waters are crystal clear and the surfing season runs from December to March.
If you would like further information please click on the links below:
Fernando de Noronha History
Fernando de Noronha Culture
Fernando de Noronha Natural Aspects
Fernando de Noronha Cuisine
Fernando de Noronha Weather
Fernando de Noronha Travel Tips
With crystalline waters and an exuberance of corals, dolphins, lobsters and colorful tropical fish, as well as wonderfully preserved beaches and virtually no pollution, Fernando de Noronha is a paradise for divers, surfers and all nature lovers. This beautiful and peaceful island is part of a volcanic archipelago of 21 islands which lie 345km off the northeast coast of Brazil. For years, a military outpost off-limits to visitors, this unspoiled island was declared a Marine National Park in 1988 and is now protected by IBAMA (the Brazilian Institute for the Environment). To preserve the unspoiled environment, only 420 tourists are allowed on the island at any one time, guaranteeing empty beaches and tranquility for the visitor at all times, as well as the opportunity to commune with nature.
The islands were discovered in 1503 by the Portuguese explorer Amérigo Vespucci and were for a time a pirate lair. In 1738 the Portuguese built the Forte dos Remédios, later used as a prison in this century, and a church to strengthen their claim to the islands. A few scattered remains of the early fortifications still exist. Apart from the thousands of migratory birds that stop off at the island on their way south, the waters surrounding the island are filled with hundreds of playful dolphins, turtles, multi-colored fish, corals, sponges and other marine plants. It is no wonder, therefore, that Fernando de Noronha is the best place for scuba diving and snorkelling in Brazil. As well as excellent underwater activities, Fernando de Noronha is also the mecca for Brazilian surfers who come to ride the 2 meter waves (sometimes reaching as high as 5 meters) on the sandy beaches facing Brazil´s Atlantic coast. The best surf beaches are Cacimba do Padre, Bode, Boldró, Conceição, and Meio.
Riding, mountain biking and walking to some of the remoter beaches are also popular. There are interesting natural rock sculptures at the Baía dos Porcos beach, a waterfall at Praia do Sancho during the rainy season and a heavenly natural swimming pool among the rocks at Praia do Atalaia. The Morro do Pico is the highest point on the island at 321 meters (1,053 ft) and offers a splendid view of the archipelago, especially at sunset. The island has warm and pleasant temperatures of around 26°C (79°C )all year round, with a refreshing rainy season from February to July. The best time for diving is from April to November, when the waters are crystal clear and the surfing season runs from December to March.
If you would like further information please click on the links below:
Fernando de Noronha History
Fernando de Noronha Culture
Fernando de Noronha Natural Aspects
Fernando de Noronha Cuisine
Fernando de Noronha Weather
Fernando de Noronha Travel Tips
