Rio de Janeiro-1

For this South American/Antarctica cruise the port of departure was Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I flew in a few days early in order to do some touring before boarding the Rotterdam.

I stayed at the Hotel InterContinental, which is a fantastic hotel ... ... in the upscale Barra da Tijuca district, right on Barra Beach. It's a very nice hotel, with comfortable rooms. The prices were good, too. The rooms were a little small, but not too much so. The bed was comfortable. Television service included international networks, like CNN and BBC. The beach was right outside my balcony ... with a lovely view. Upscale townhouse high-rises are right next to he hotel. There's even a United Methodist Church! The beach right outside the hotel is lovely and not crowded. Our first day of touring we traveled up Corcovado mountain to visit Jesus. The views from up here are spectacular. The famous "Sugar Loaf" is clearly visible, even despite the haze. Elevators and Escalators make it easy to climb to the top from the train station But the most powerful attraction is, of course ... ... the Christ the Redeemer Statute. it is obligatory for one to put their hands in the master's hands! Our tour guide, Neyla, was FANTASTIC. I HIGHLY recommend her! Karl, Mary Ellen, and myself under the Christ the Redeemer Statue. neyla@tourguideneyla.com Contact her and use her ... she is FANTASTIC.