Global Sporting Events < 2014 FIFA World Cup


About Rio de Janeiro

In 2014, Brazil will host the world’s most anticipated and watched tournament for the second time. Brazil will have 12 host cities compared to the usual 8 that FIFA has traditionally regulated. The final match be held in Rio De Janeiro where the new world champions will wave their countries flag.

Rio de Janeiro, known as the cidade maravilhosa (marvelous city), is nothing less than breathtaking. Surrounded by gorgeous mountains, white­sand beaches and flourishing rainforests surrounding their vibrant ocean, Rio is one of the most magnificent settings of any metropolis in the world.

With the seductive sounds of samba as their rallying cry, Rio’s residents, known as cariocas, have perfected the art of ‘living well.’ From Brazil’s world-famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema to the tops Corcovado and Pão de Açúcar to the dance halls, bars and open-air cafes that flourish the city, cariocas live for the moment without a care in the world. This idea of bliss has captivated visitors for centuries. You can surf great breaks off Prainha, sail across Guanabára, hike through Tijuca’s rainforests, dance the night away in Lapa or just people-watch on Ipanema Beach.

Corcovado
At 2230 feet, this mountain is where the Christ Redeemer statue stands with outstretched arms. At night, the 100 foot, 1,000 ton statue seems to float as if it were a guardian angel for the city. Stand with the statue at your back, and to your left is the soccer temple Maracanã and the northern districts. Straight ahead in the distance is the Niterói bridge another one of Rio's must see. To the right is the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas and Copacabana and Ipanema beaches further out.

Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas
An unmistakable landmark from the top of Corcovado and a breathtaking view as you leave the tunnel. Visitors to Rio should take advantage of the wonderful water-side walk and 5 mile bike path or maybe the public tennis and volleyball courts, the baseball diamond and soccer pitch. At night enjoy good food and live music that surround.

Copacabana
The most famous beach in the world, Copacabana has lost little of its mystique and charm over the years. Positioned in a wonderfully rich setting with a backdrop of sharp rising hills and a concrete jungle, this is the best place to feel the carioca spirit.

Marius
With a delicate decor, the restaurant overlooks the Leme Beach and offers more than 30 different grilled meat dishes. For those not too keen on having meat, there is a superb salad bar which includes a nice selection of fish.