Rio de Janeiro's beaches receive praise for their cleanliness and orderliness amidst the bustling crowd.
Nestled amidst the seaside hills of Rio de Janeiro, impoverished favelas (slums) stand in stark contrast to the city's vibrant beach culture. The Carioca beach scene is thriving, according to Kathryn Wannan, a sustainable-tourism outfitter.
Rio's iconic beaches - Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon - are considered world wonders, boasting a stunning setting along Guanabara Bay. Despite urban challenges, they continue to draw visitors with their allure. Winsome beachgoers still parade past the bar where bossa nova master Tom Jobim was inspired to compose the music for "Girl from Ipanema."
The beaches are meticulously maintained to serve as star attractions for the city's tourism industry and the centre of local culture. Clean-up crews remove litter from the beaches every morning, and special police units patrol the beach areas to ensure safety.
The famous Copacabana Palace Hotel, a symbol of Rio's elegance, was the brainchild of architect Joseph Gire. The French-Brazilian architect Alfred Agache also played a significant role in shaping the hotel and the surrounding area of Copacabana in the early 20th century. The refurbished hotel still carries the ghosts of Hollywood legends like Mary Pickford, Errol Flynn, and Orson Welles.
However, beneath the surface, major social issues persist, as noted by Ken Lindeman, professor of Marine and Environmental Systems at Florida Institute of Technology. The city has invested in advanced sewage-treatment technology to protect the beaches, but some observers worry about the architectural heritage of neighbourhoods in Rio, including those near the beaches. Handsome old buildings are often demolished to make way for shiny new ones.
Travelers are advised to use their street smarts, especially at night, in Rio. Crime remains an issue throughout the city, but the beach is among the safer spots. The nearby streets are lined with chic shops, restaurants, and apartment buildings, creating a congenial neighbourhood atmosphere.
Rio's upcoming events, such as the 2014 soccer World Cup and the 2016 Summer Olympics, have mobilised its citizens to ensure that Rio lives up to its moniker of Cidade Maravilhosa: Marvelous City. Street food, smoothies, and various activities such as surfing, volleyball, music, and sand castle building can be found along the beach promenade, adding to the city's charm.
Despite the challenges, Rio de Janeiro's beach culture continues to thrive, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that draws visitors from around the world.
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