Why I want to go to Rio de Janeiro
South America is my final travel frontier. I have boldly visited every other continent on the planet except for South America and while this is not a so-called ‘bucket list’ it is definitely my goal for 2013. I really want to go there during the annual Carnival festivities, but I am going to need some help.
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Having a year means that I should be able come up with creative ways to generate sponsorship and/or travel information opportunities. So if you’re currently staying in Rio de Janeiro and need someone to house sit or have a free sofa I could crash on please let me know. If that sounds like a bit of stretch then travel and dining tips left in the comment section of this blog would also be very much appreciated.
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Correct me if I’m wrong but most revellers like to hang in the so-called Zona Sul (South End or South Rio). It is a good place to stay if you want to be close to the action, and it’s by the sea with easy access to the wildly popular Copacabana and Ipanema beach areas.
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Leblon hotels are more upmarket and reportedly like to play what I call ‘peak season rate games’ at carnival time. Most will only offer a fixed-rate five-night package during the week of the event, which includes a hefty non-refundable deposit, at rates that are significantly higher than the rest of the year. It’s safe to stay I won’t be staying here, not because of the price but because I want to eat local dishes like Salsichão, Empada and Aipim frito with my hands in neighbour cafes. But it’s hard to go local and stay safe in a destination you don’t know. So tips regarding where to find cold beer and tasty snacks would be very much appreciated.
Of course first I have to get to Rio’s international Airport Galeão. Since I am more than a decade removed from being a travel journalist, I am going to have to work for my airfare. Readers who have connections at either TAM Airlines or Varig can kindly put in a good word for me and I will take it from there.
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Finally I want a samba school scholarship. I hear that Beija-Flor and Grande Rio have the best looking dancers and costumes. I did study dance a bit in university, but I doubt that will help me learn to samba. The good news is I have a year to practice.
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