We had a great time in Rio! I was sorry we had to leave, one more day would have been nice. I was glad that we have walked on the Copacabana and and Ipanema beaches on the busy weekend and seen the weekday markets as well. We have made a 9 hrs excursion in Rio and were able to see most of the highlights. We went on top of the Sugar loaf mountain as well as the Christ mountain, both offered amazing views. We were in awe! I have to say that Rio tops all the world cities! I thought Cape town was spectacular but Rio, wow. Just to see the mountains dramatically coming up to 800m from the sea level, to feel the humidity of the lush green parks and the jungle ,the long curving beaches with sand that crunches under your feet, the inviting aquamarine ocean . It all overwhelms your senses and you think, who could have designed anything this beautiful and be in awe....Of course then you see the vast contrasts between the wealthy and the poor districts, shanty towns or howells?, the huge traffic jams, but happy, relaxed people who enjoy their families and friends on the beach, the passion for soccer and sports. When you are looking down at the 6,5 million people sprawling city , it is quite astonishing how it all fits together. Our guide was very knowledgeable and filled our heads with overload of information. Like Brazil manufactures all their cars in Brazil, does not matter what make. They use ethanol and natural gas as fuel. But you also see bicycles and mopeds everywhere...We experienced another amazing lunch where they would come to your table with skewed meats, all kinds and carve it for you.. They love their meat here. Come to visit if you can to see it for yourselves.. It is quite safe, you just have to take care like anywhere else. And Portuguese language is hard but at times they understand spanish and of course your sign language.