Eye on Brazil

Eye on Brazil

Baking in The Sun

This year marks the occurance of El Nino, an eleven year cycle that is influenced by the sunspots. It has influenced our weather more and more with each passing. We have all noted the increase in weather fluctuation and tropical storms. This year has proven to be one of the hottest on record as far as temperature in Rio de Janeiro. With days on end well above the 90 and even 100 degree mark, it has been great for people visiting Rio on vacation, but terrible for the local population who have to live their day to day lives in this sweltering heat. Thank goodness all the apartments we rent have air conditioning!

Going to the beach on Christmas

One of the biggest differences between the northern and southern hemisphere is that while we are having our winter, they are having their summer. This is something that makes a big difference when you are traveling down to Rio. The fact that people are wearing shorts and flip-flops during the months of December and January really makes one take note. When I first moved to Rio, one of the things that was the hardest to get used to was the fact that Brazilians celebrate Christmas on December 24, in the evening. The next day, on December 25, a lot of people in Rio go to the beach. That is such a funny concept to Americans. I appreciate both sides of the equation, but if you are in Rio, do as the Caricoas do!

Best Time to Visit Rio de Janeiro

I have been asked over the years, "When is the best time to visit Rio?" I always jokingly respond, "Right now!" There are however, best times to visit, and I base them more on the weather and in-flux of people than anything else. You really son't want to go during the hottest months of the year (Jan-Feb) unless you aregoing for Carnaval. You as well do not want to go when it is super crowded unless that is your thing. I have lived there 10 years and can tell you that these periods are the most uncomfortable (hard to get a spot on the beach or a table in a good restaurant) I think that October-November, (especially the latter) or March-April (in this case, the former) are the best months to go. The weather is nice, but not too hot, and the natives are in a good mood, but not stressed. If you are going during Carnaval or for New Years, take a suitcase of patience with you, go to restaurants a little earlier (9pm) and avoid the busiest hours on the beach.

Renting an Apartment in Rio

If you are planning a trip to Rio de Janeiro and still don't know where you are going to stay, I can offer some tips and resources. Back when I started renting apartments, there was much more demand for Copacabana than any other area of Rio. Little by little, people discovered Ipanema and Leblon, and while they are more expensive, people understood the concept of getting what you pay for. Another area that didn't receive the recognition it deserved was Botafogo, which has become a favorite of students and long term renters. We are here for advice and tips as well as offering some of the nicest apartments to be found in Rio de Janeiro

Christ Statue of Rio de Janeiro

Christ Statue of Rio de Janeiro
Originally uploaded by John Broom

Incredible Photo of Christ Statue in Rio

Nice angle of Corcovado Statue in Rio de Janeiro

RiodeJaneiro_corcovado
Originally uploaded by John Broom

Christ Statue of Rio de Janeiro
www.spectralight.net/

We have rental properties and apartments for rent in Rio de Janeiro as well as friendly advice for travelers or those curious people who just want some information
Check out our blog about Rio
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