"My Heart Belongs To Rio" a Rio de Janeiro Travel Page by HispanicYob

Welcome to Rio! Wow! What an amazing place! I loved it here and now wish I could live here. Despite my lack of Portuguese! The city itself is crazy! As one fellow traveler here at my hostel put it, it's a city basically in the middle of the jungle. You're surrounded by mountains and green everywhere! Words can't describe my longing to get back to Rio one day again. It was my first time in Brazil and I had a good experience! Be aware, the locals speak Portuguese. It's rare that you'll find English-speaking ones unless it's a tour guide or a member of hotel staff. Cariocas do appreciate it though when you at least try to speak a bit of the language, but be prepared for a Brazilian Portuguese reply when you're done. The city has SO much to offer that I feel that my 8 days in Rio should've been at least 15. I can't wait to go back again one day so I can relive it all over again! I miss you Rio! Thanks for a great vacation!

....Rio offers quite a lot in a beautiful and natural setting. Naturally the South Zone is probably where you will stay and there's something going on in every neighborhood if you look hard enough, especially during Carnaval! There's lot of little visual gems to Rio that some people overlook. Make sure you see past the picture and open your eyes to Rio! You'll be pleasantly surprised!

You know, on my last day in Rio, I was kind of sad. I was leaving a great place. I came during Carnaval 2008 and it was an amazing experience! Although next time I come to Rio it'll be during a time when there's less tourists so I can truly enjoy it even more then I did the first time! Which isn't to say I didn't enjoy my first time here, BECAUSE I DID AND I LOVED IT! But I figure, another visit during the off-season will suit me better. Either way, Rio is amazing. I loved it. And I'm sure you will as well. Please, don't believe the movies you see and the things you here. Come try it for yourself. That is not to say that there's no danger here because like in every big city, THERE ALWAYS IS THAT DANGER. Just like anywhere, exercise caution and you'll be good. I made it out okay. :) I had friends with me though so that also helped me. Peace out! Enjoy Rio! I know I did!