Sunsets And Samba In Rio De Janeiro

Café da manhã (breakfast!) at my favorite juice stand. Years later, I still dream about their açaí (mashed Brazilian berries) and pão de queijo (cheese bread).

Since it's Rio, you absolutely must see Cristo. Only go up if it's sunny, though - clouds at the top can make it impossible to see the gorgeous views!

No trip to Rio is complete if you miss the beach. In Rio, the postos (lifeguard stands) are markers for different social scenes. The young and hip hang out at Posto 9 in Ipanema, making it a must-see. If you're a runner, run along the beach from Ipanema to Leblon - the views are unparalleled.

Brazilians are serious about their cachaça (sugarcane rum), and nowhere is more serious than Academia da Cachaça. Stop by after the beach for a caipiriha (maracujá flavor is my favorite!)

Pizzaria Guanabara is a place to see and be seen, never mind try Brazilian-style pizza. Great place to get dinner before your night out!

This is no ordinary rock - the sunrise and sunset views from atop are breathtaking. Climb up to get beautiful shots of Dois Irmãos (the mountains marking the edge of Leblon) before the sun goes down.

Carioca da Gema is a fabulous samba spot, right in the heart of Lapa, Rio's legendary party district. Be careful here (take a cab!) but make sure to dance yourself silly - locals are super friendly and will always teach you their favorite dance, samba!