I visited Rio de Janeiro during the World Cup for a reason. I wanted to be in on all the action. I wanted to see the Cariocas cry happy tears when they beat Chile. Being the obnoxious American that I am, I wanted to sport my stars and stripes all around the city. I conquered that on Day 1 by parading down Ipanema Beach with an American flag hardly home but always reppin.
I had my red, white, blue, green and yellow and was ready for some football. DO: Order a coconut, beers and caipis from beach kiosks and bask in the tropical sun. DO: Watch the locals play futebol on Copacabana. The sport is as if volleyball and soccer had a baby, not to mention the most beautiful people are playing almost naked.
Try and take your eyes off it, I dare you. Big mistake when we showed up to a huge line and there were no trains to the top until 6pm. DO: Hike up to one of the highest points in Rio to take in the amazing views of the peaks through the clouds and the views down below. Disclaimer: NOT for beginners as this hike is a bit technical with small amounts of rock climbing and repelling.
Seeing the panoramic views from the m high summit is worth it. DO: Feel comfortable and laid-back while downing some acai and other local fruit at open air cafes. For a city with rising global importance, Rio is extremely behind the times in the area of sanitation. DO: Frolic inside Jardim Botanico Botanical Gardens and feast your eyes on tree lines paths and lily pad filled ponds. I got jipped.
Being with 70, of your closest football friends will leave you with goosebumps and lots of Brazilian pride. DO: Purchase a window seat when flying into Rio to see the various green peaks popping all over the city.
