This is city set on the edge of virginal rainforests and flanked by the sea. Rio is one of the most colorful, most vibrant and most energetic cities in Latin America, and this you can immediately see as soon as you get off your plane. Known as the "cidade maravilhosa" to its locals, Rio is home to two of the most famous beaches in the world- Ipanema and Copacabana, making the city one of the top destinations for beach bums and sun worshippers. Apart from this, what makes Rio marvelous is the interesting and varied mix of sun, dance, food, culture and art-not to mention beautiful men and women.

Rio is famous for its carnivals, the sensual movements of the samba and other Latin American dances, and the giant statue of Jesus that stands atop Corcovado Mountain, as if proclaiming that the city is looked after by God Himself. Indeed, Rio is marvelously blessed with natural and cultural wonders. Tijuca Forest is one of the largest in Latin America, carefully protected and linked to the White Stone State Park. Hang-gliding is a popular activity and allows visitors to catch a one-of-a-kid view of the park from above. At the edge of the forest lies Rio's most prestigious educational institutions, the Catholic University of Rio.