As second to Brazil’s largest cities and third of the largest metropolitan areas in South America, Rio de Janeiro is considered to be the main destination of tourists in Southern Hemisphere.
To truly enjoy your stay in the city, it is thus important to do a little research and get yourself some useful information about this festive and large city.
Fact
Rio de Janeiro is not the capital of Brazil (at least not anymore). In 1960, the country’s capital was transferred to Brasilia for several reasons. First, it was seen that Brazil’s was too focused in Rio, they need to decentralize it. Second, the country’s authorities thought of having a capital that’s far from the shore to avoid future invasions.
Weather
Sitting almost on the top of the Capricorn Tropic, Rio de Janeiro’s climate is tropical; making it ideal to visit any time of the year. If you want to visit the city on a cold season though, book it between June and August when the temperature is comfortable at 20°C during day time and 16° C night time. Summer months on the other hand, start in December all the way to March.
Business Hours
Most offices in the city open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, from Monday to Friday. Stores cater to customers needs from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm on weekdays, and from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturdays. Most large shopping centers open from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, from Monday to Saturday.
Emergency Numbers
Before making a call, remember that Brazil’s country code is 55 and the city’s area code is 21. In case of any emergencies, these are the numbers you can dial for help:
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Fire: 193
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Ambulance: 192
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Police: 190
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Hospital de Ipanema: 21 3111-2334
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Hospital Copa D’Or: 21 2545-3600
Safety
Sadly, despite the city’s famed beauty and magnificence, many people also know the city for its high crime rate and violence. So when travelling in Rio, it is best to take extra precautions especially when in public and crowded areas. If it is not important to bring so much cash and jewellery, just leave them in your hotel safe.
Phrases to Remember
The main language in Rio de Janeiro is Portuguese. If you don’t have much time to learn the language, these phrases could come handy when strolling around the city.
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Hello: Olá
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Hi: Oi
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Good morning: Bom dia
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Good evening: Boa noite
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Good night: Boa noite
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Excuse me: Com licença
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Yes: Sim
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No: Não
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Please: Por Favor
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Sorry: Desculpe
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Thank you: Obrigado
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Welcome: Bem-vindo
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What is your name?: Qual é o seu nome?
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My name is…: Meu nome é …
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Can you help me?: Você pode me ajudar?
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Can you speak more slowly?: Pode falar mais devagar?
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Do you speak English?: Você fala Inglês?
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Does anyone here speak English?: Alguém aqui fala Inglês?
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How much?: Quanto?
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I don’t understand: Eu não entendo