About Rio de Janeiro
One of the major economic and cultural hubs of South America, the City of Rio de Janeiro sits at the heart of the Southeastern Region, where 60% of the Brazilian GDP is produced. A cosmopolitan metropolis, known worldwide for its scenic beauty and its natural resources, the city provides a harmonious and agreeable environment for its residents and visitors, both for leisure and work. These combined with Rio’s infrastructure render it an important center for commerce and services, with the advantages of a modern and diversified industrial sector. The City of Rio de Janeiro, which occupies an area of 1.261 km2 and houses a population of 6.323.037 (according to the IBGE 2010 census), is renowned for one of its main virtues – i.e. the friendliness and hospitality with which its residents welcome all visitors.
Rio de Janeiro, a multi-faceted destination, is the focal point of the travel industry in Latin America and is unique in natural beauty. Its rich history and the contagious fun of its residents have contributed to its image as a very special destination, particularly during its two major festivals: New Year’s Eve and Carnaval.
Rio is a city of contrasts. While its colonial architecture is an enduring reminder of its past, striking modern buildings provide a glimpse into the future. Two landmarks, i.e. true postcard images of Rio, are renowned worldwide: the Sugar Loaf and the Statue of Christ the Redeemer.
Its exuberant natural resources include 90 km of beaches, the Tijuca National Park (which includes the largest urban forest in the world with 3,200 hectares of Atlantic Forest), the State Parks of Pedra Branca, Desengano and Chacrinha, covering an area of 48.500 hectares, and the Rodrigo de Freitas, Jacarepaguá, Camorim, Tijuca and Marapendi lakes and lagoons.
Visitors soon find out what residents know and are proud of – there’s always something new happening in Rio, e.g. exhibitions, dance/music shows and sporting events.
With its ample tourism infrastructure, Rio de Janeiro is ranked among the top destinations in the world to host cultural, commercial, technical/scientific events, fairs, symposia, congresses, conventions and exhibitions.
This is the Rio de Janeiro that awaits you at the WWW2013