When visitors to Rio de Janeiro ask me what I recommend, the reply is always the same: go to the beach! Ipanema might not have the calmest waters nor the most turquoise, but it is by far the most incredible beach I have ever been to. It is tantalizing to the senses! All you have to do is show up and the magical world of Rio will come to you. The best part is it all unfolds in a very relaxed fashion. You won’t find insistent vendors or pushy people here. The beautiful bodies, happy grandmas, sexy couples, futebol (soccer), volleyball, paddleball, live samba music, colorful bikinis for sale, hot beach snacks, ice-cold drinks, handmade toys, fragrant sunscreen and oils they'll all come right by. Your options are simple: keep reading