Adios Mon Ami: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain and More Must See Sites

CHRIST THE REDEEMER

Hello Jesus . Today was a visit to Rio’s number one attraction.

Christ the Redeemer is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is 125 ft. In length, perched high on top of a mountain in a national park with breathtaking scenery. Being a New Yorker, the Statue of Liberty also gets my vote as a World Wonder, but admittedly, the harbor in Rio is a spectacular sight to be seen, just adding to the awe factor.

Today I also checked out Ipanema beach. This beach became famous worldwide after Frank Sinatra recorded the song “The Girl from Ipanema” in 1964. (Veni sang the song for us just in case someone wasn’t familiar with it). The song was based on a stunningly beautiful girl who is now in her 80s and now has her own beauty line. While there, couldn't help but buy some Havaianas flip-flops to take home.

Tonight, Veni treated us to Happy Hour at his favorite beach bar. At the next table, we thought someone said they were from New Jersey, started a little chat and discovered that they come to Rio frequently for work. What do they do? They are pilots for Delta Airlines! Yes, Delta Airlines that nearly wrecked my trip. Remarkably, they were the pilots for my flight! Weird, but true.

Ms. Liberty in New York harbor 😄

SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN

To reach Sugarloaf Mountain , you need to ride a cable car to the top. This is probably the second most popular attraction in Rio. The views of the landscape are jaw-dropping.

SERALON STAIRCASE

We went downtown and stopped by a tile-covered staircase, called the Seralon Staircase, which was decorated by a famous Chilean artist. The immediate area is packed with tourists and a little difficult to navigate. Some "entrepreneurs" get paid to take shots of people on the stairs, so if you get in their way, you will hear about it. Just be aware of where you step.

We had a quick lunch at a local restaurant around the corner from the Hotel and afterward a short visit to Jardim Botanico. As it was getting late, we didn't see the full garden. We discovered that there was a trolley to pick up passengers at certain stops along the route, so you don't need to do all that walking unless you want to. Inquire about this when you purchase tickets. It is not that obvious that this service exists. At least it wasn't to us.