In keeping with the flavor of the times; when they were building hothouses and exotic gardens in England and the Continent, the royal family created their own botanical garden, the Jardim Botanico, in

Popularized by the song "The Girl from Ipanema," this world-famous beach gives foreign visitors a sense of life in Rio, displaying a cross-section of different lifestyles, chic boutiques and eateries and luxurious apartment buildings.

Getting there  The cog-train leaves Cosme Velho station every hour, on the hour and half past the hour. Tickets cost R$36 for adults and R$ 18 for children. Sit on the right hand side of the train for

You’ll find historical spots, spectacular views, a beautiful waterfall, a small chapel and unusual trees in this dense, tropical national park, probably best explored by jeep tour.

For sunning, relaxing and people watching, join the thousands who flock each year to this lively, world-famous beach lined with shops, bars, restaurants and hotels.

world's biggest Soccer stadium