Rio is often called the “marvelous city,” and with good reason. Popular neighborhoods to visit or stay, like Leblón, Ipanema and Copacabana hug the city’s beaches. Get a peek from higher up, taking an aerial tram trip up the iconic Pão de Azucar, for fabulous views over the city, or for an even more impressive view, visit the open-armed Christ-statue at Corcovado, accessed by small gauge train. Also popular in Rio are museums, libraries, theaters and outdoor nightlife, including near the aqueduct in the neighborhood of Lapa, where the famously colorful Selaron staircase is located. In 2016, tourism will be peak for the Summer Olympic games, and Brazil is planning on temporarily suspending the visa requirements for US-passport holders to facilitate visits until September of that year. Olympic opening and closing ceremonies will take place in the world-famous Maracanã soccer stadium.
