Samba, Sun, and Seven Days: My Rio Adventure with AussieRoam!
- Sheila Rosella
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
G'day fellow wanderers! Fresh off the plane from a whirlwind 7-day trip to the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro earlier this month, I’m bursting to share my experiences. Forget the winter chills back home, Rio was alive with energy, stunning scenery, and the infectious rhythm of samba. And thanks to AussieRoam, staying connected throughout this incredible adventure was a breeze!
Our base for the week was the iconic Copacabana, specifically near Posto 6. The location was perfect – steps from the beach, buzzing with local life, and with easy access to everything Rio has to offer.
Must-See Marvels:
No trip to Rio is complete without witnessing its most famous landmarks:
Christ the Redeemer: Standing atop Corcovado Mountain, the sheer scale and artistry of this iconic statue are breathtaking. The panoramic views of Rio are simply unparalleled. Tip: Book your train tickets in advance to avoid long queues, and try to go on a clear day for the best visibility.
Sugarloaf Mountain: Taking the two cable car rides to the summit of Sugarloaf offers equally stunning vistas of the city, Guanabara Bay, and the surrounding coastline. Watching the sunset from up there is an unforgettable experience. Tip: Allow a few hours for this excursion to soak in the views from both levels fully.
Exploring Beyond the Icons:
While the major landmarks are a must, Rio has so much more to offer:
Copacabana & Ipanema Beaches: Spend your mornings soaking up the sun, enjoying a refreshing coconut water, and watching the locals play footvolley. Take a stroll along the promenade and feel the vibrant energy of these world-famous beaches.
Escadaria Selarón: This vibrant mosaic staircase, adorned with tiles from all over the world, is a true artistic gem and a fantastic photo opportunity.
Santa Teresa: Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of this bohemian neighbourhood, filled with colourful colonial architecture, art galleries, and trendy cafes. Take the historic Santa Teresa Tram for a scenic ride.
Botanical Garden: A serene escape from the city's hustle, this sprawling garden is a paradise for nature lovers. Explore its diverse collection of plants, from towering imperial palm trees to exotic orchids, and keep an eye out for monkeys and various bird species. It's a truly beautiful and tranquil spot.
Museum of Tomorrow: Located in the revitalised Port area, this striking, futuristic museum is an architectural marvel in itself. It offers interactive exhibits exploring sustainability, climate change, and the future of our planet—a truly thought-provoking and engaging experience.
Rio City Centre: Don't miss exploring the historic heart of Rio. Here you'll find a fascinating blend of colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers. A highlight is the striking Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian, with its unique conical, pyramid-like design – a truly awe-inspiring piece of contemporary architecture. Also, look out for the Municipal Theatre, Imperial Palace, and the historic Confeitaria Colombo for a step back in time. The city centre offers a glimpse into Rio's rich past and bustling present.
Lapa: Experience Rio’s lively nightlife in the Lapa district, known for its samba clubs and traditional bars (botequins).
A Taste of Rio:
Rio’s culinary scene is as diverse and exciting as the city itself. We had some truly memorable meals:
Brisa Cafe Posto 6: Located right on Copacabana Beach, Brisa Cafe Posto 6 offers delicious Brazilian and international cuisine with stunning ocean views. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed brunch or quick snack.
Marine Restô: For a more upscale experience, Marine Resto at the Fairmont Rio boasts an elegant ambience and exquisite dishes. We enjoyed a fantastic seafood dinner here.
Casa Camolese: Tucked away in the beautiful Jardim Botânico area, Casa Camolese offers a sophisticated setting and a refined menu, perfect for a special occasion. Their contemporary Brazilian dishes are a must-try.
Staying Connected with AussieRoam:
Navigating a new city is always easier with reliable internet access. My AussieRoam eSIM for Brazil was an absolute lifesaver! From looking up directions and translating phrases to sharing photos with family and friends back home, I had seamless connectivity throughout my entire trip. Setting it up was quick and easy, and the data allowance was more than enough for my needs. Highly recommend grabbing an AussieRoam eSIM before your next international adventure!
Whether you’re soaking up the sun on Copacabana, gazing at the iconic Christ the Redeemer, or dancing to the samba beats in Lapa, Rio de Janeiro is a city that will capture your heart. With AussieRoam keeping you connected, you can focus on creating unforgettable memories. Start planning your own Brazilian adventure today!
