Cariocas, Rio de Janeiro locals, have their own ways. To make the best of your experience it is a good idea to get to know them first. Did you know that when you are introduced to someone of the opposite sex you are supposed to give two kisses on the cheeks? Or that when a local promises that he will call you later and maybe even invite you to stop by his place later they don't necessarily mean it? Are you aware that you will be frisked for party favors at major dance clubs?
You won't get much far on an empty stomach, so before you hit the bars and clubs let's go for a strategic stop at one of Rio de Janeiro's favorite restaurants and eateries. Choose by cuisine or price range, find all the phones and addresses with the aid of our interactive maps. On Saturdays make sure to enjoy a good feijoada like locals do, and on weekdays pick out from our personal selection of the best in each category. Bon appetit!
Yes, every now and then Rio de Janeiro is the stage of major international shows. Way before Rock in Rio we had International Music Festivals in the 70's, with talents like Elis Regina and Caetano Veloso. But even during the off-season there's always something interesting to see. For instance: Vinícius, right across from Bar Garota de Ipanema, has regular Bossa Nova guests. And major performers are easily seen at Canecão, Circo Voador, Fundição Progresso...
Is there anything other than Carnival?
You betcha! Carnival and New Year's Eve are the two highest seasons in Rio. They attract millions to the streets and are well-known parties around the world. This means that hotels are more expensive, and you may have to prepay your stay. Pre-Carnival week is a good option if you are on a tight budget. Rio Gay Pride Parade is straight-friendly, attracts almost one million to Copacabana Beach, and hotels keep regular prices.
There are so many movies that were shot in Rio that it is hard to keep track of them all. To mention a couple of classics, what about Flying Down to Rio with Fred and Ginger, or Now Voyager with Bette Davis. Then came James Bond in Moonraker, and almost destroyed the Sugarloaf cable cars. And Michael Caine almost ruined his marriage at Blame it on Rio.
Now some good news to movie goers: Here films are shown in their original language with subtitles in Portuguese. Now that you know that you will understand what the actors are saying, you may consider a night in the movies as an alternative for a rainy day.
Rio's has an active clubber circuit. If you love to dance the night away, you will not run out of options. Local and guest DJ's spin every night the latest disco, house, garage, techno, trance, pop, funk, hip-hop and other dancy beats. Things never really pick up until after midnight, so you have time to enjoy a good meal, or warm up at the bars and cafes.
Minors are not legally allowed at night clubs. Once you get in, beer and liquor is served at most venues, usually without the need to present any I.D. Flyers are distributed on the beach, and at some cool boutiques in Ipanema, Leblon or the malls.
Rio de Janeiro's legendary samba halls, also known as gafieiras, are mostly located in Lapa and Downtown. Learn some new steps, dance to local beats like samba, pagode, and bossa nova, or other familiar ballroom staples, like salsa, tango, etc. It's a great way to start your night adventures and mingle with locals.
We know that you probably do not understand the language. But you do not understand what they say in the operas either, do you? Do not let the language barrier discourage you from enjoying some live entertainment.We're not exactly on Broadway, but local productions have their own flavor and in addition to the plays you can always choose a musical. As music is the uniersal language you will surely go back home with fond memories.
We know you did not come to Rio to watch TV. But then again, this is our guide to nightlife and entertainment! Find everything you need to know whenever you feel like a couch potato. From funny Brazilian programs you will not enjoy even if you do not understand, to how to tune up to CNN at your hotel, it's all here.
So you are single in Rio and looking for fun. Our first suggestion is that you try the bars and clubs and see what happens. If you still feel lonely and a little burlesque show and entertainment starts to sound like a good idea, this cold be the right guide for you.
Is Rio safe? I've heard so many stories... Why won't my hotel let me take my escort up to my room? What kind of documents to I need to take along when I go out at night? And how much cash? Find the answers to these and more questions right here!
What is the easiest way to reach Lapa from my South Side hotel? Does the subway work on weekends? Is the Ipanema station already operational? Are regular buses safe for tourists? What about vans? Should I hail a yellow cabs on the street, or is it safer to call one of the radio-taxi companies? What the heck is a frescão? Do taxis run by the meter or per ride?
You won't get much far on an empty stomach, so before you hit the bars and clubs let's go for a strategic stop at one of 
Yes, every now and then Rio de Janeiro is the stage of major international shows. Way before Rock in Rio we had International Music Festivals in the 70's, with talents like Elis Regina and Caetano Veloso. But even during the off-season there's always something interesting to see. For instance: Vinícius, right across from 
Rio de Janeiro's legendary 
We know that you probably do not 
So you are single in Rio and looking for fun. Our first suggestion is that you try the bars and clubs and see what happens. If you still feel lonely and a little burlesque show and entertainment starts to sound like a good idea, this cold be the right guide for you.
Is Rio safe? I've heard so many stories... Why won't my hotel let me take my escort up to my room? What kind of documents to I need to take along when I go out at night? And how much cash? Find the answers to these and more questions right here! 
