In downtown Rio charming historical buildings are nestled amongst the contemporary. Near the Cinélandia metro stop, the Praça Floriano is juxtaposed between the Theatro Municipal, Biblioteca Nacional, Supremo Tribunal Federal, and the Palácio Monroe. Inspired by the Paris Opera, the neoclassical theatre is a grand sight to wake up weary eyes. Heading north at Ave Rio Branco is the Museu das Belas Artes that displays 19th century European and Brazilian art, open 10-6, Tuesday-Friday.
Açaí Berry Snack--Healthy and Energizing
A post-museum pick-me-up is necessary in the form of purple icy slush. Açaí is a berry native to the Amazon. Order "Açaí na tigela" in a bowl with sliced bananas and granola.
Cathedral Massacre
The 16th century Igreja de NS de Candelária was constructed in order to fulfill a holy vow made by a nearly lost-at-sea captain. The ceiling's frescoes depict the idealized story of the captain's voyage, but the church has a more recent chilling history. Outside the stained sidewalks illustrate the cold reality of kids forced to sleep in the street. This is the site of the 1993 massacre of eight street children by the military police.
Ferry to the Island
A quick nap on the ferry to Ilha do Paquetá will refresh worn-out feet for the afternoon. The Aerobarco or Catamarãs-Jumbo Cat takes 20 minutes. And passes under the 13-kilometer-long President Costa e Silva Bridge that connects Rio to Niterió. It's the highest bridge in the world at 72 meters.
Rio's Best Snack Food
On the automobile-free island, the pace is slower and the air cleaner. The tiny island can be explored on foot, by bicycle for rent on the main road, Furquim Wernick, or by horse-drawn carriages. Ice cold, beer and a basket of fish, lime, and rose sauce (Isca de peixe com molho rosé) is a perfect afternoon treat at Restaurante Charretão.
Caipirinhas and Nightlife in Lapa, Rio de Janeiro
Center stage in Lapa-where the cariocas merry make until dawn--is Pizza Guanabara. A slice of mozzarella prepares the stomach for caipirinhas, the Brazilian drink of crushed ice, lime and cachaça. Live shows frequent Fundição Progresso.
Rio Scenarium has a floor for all tastes. Take a taxi there at night. Live bands, featuring rock, samba, or forro, northeastern folk music, entertain minglers on the bottom floor, while diners converse over traditional Brazilian dishes on the second and third floors. In another room, a DJ spins hip-hop, techno, and Brazilian funk.
At 11:00, the Lapa streets begin to fill with all walks of life. Artists file onto the cobblestone streets peddling natural handmade earrings. Ears go home happy after a night of eclectic musical stimulation.
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