Famous for its natural settings, its carnival celebrations and samba, Rio de Janeiro is one spectacular holiday destination.
Nicknamed A Cidade Maravilhosa, "The Marvelous City", Rio de Janeiro was the capital of Brazil for nearly two centuries, from 1763 to 1822 during the Portuguese colonial era, and from 1822 to 1960 as an independent nation.
Perhaps its most famous landmark is the giant statue of Christ, known as Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor) on Corcovado mountain, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Our city site seeing always includes a cable car ride up Sugar Loaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) with its breathtaking views at 1,299 ft, And we always recommend that you take time out to visit Downtown Centro to Castelo, Santa Teresa and across the bay to Niteroi.
Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches are not to be missed. With hotels, restaurants, bars and night clubs along its promenade, the area is always buzzing. Or if it’s back to nature that appeals a visit to the Tijuca National Park won’t disappoint. |
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As for their football, the Brazilians are rather good! Five times World Cup champions tells the story. The Maracanã, one of the world’s most spectacular stadiums, will be the venue for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Final and 2016 Olympic Games’ opening and closing ceremonies. But for now it’s shortly closing for refurbishment and construction of a state-of-the-art media centre so, depending on matches, we’ll take to other city stadiums including the Engenhao, the temporary home of Flamengo.
At every Rio corner you’ll be gob struck by Kaka-like tricks. And gasp at the magical skills of foot-volley which involves using one’s head, chest and feet but not hands.
Beach football is hugely popular and as sand is much softer than grass, players don’t hold back! For groups we can arrange coaching or matches. Otherwise join in a kick about as local teams are always on the lookout for good international players!
Often dubbed as the White Pele and considered one of the most skilled dribblers, free kick specialists and finishers ever, Zico was possibly the world's best player of the early 80's. At the Zico Football Centre children, junior, adults and professionals hone their technique and skills. A visit demonstrates how the Brazilians combine passion with performance. For school groups and club players we can arrange technical and tactical training here with professional coaches as well as amateur games.
But your Best! Football Holiday needn’t end there. Our Back|StreetBF football tour takes you behind the scenes to neighbourhood grounds and matches including where restaurant staff and hotel porters play league games in the early hours of the morning to the very spot where Ronando learnt his craft and much more besides.
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