This is not a conventional Rio Guide. You might be headed to my hometown thinking about having a touristic trip. In this guide I will present to you a view of Rio that shows its true colors! You won’t be going to those places that pretend to give you a local’s experience. There are plenty of things for you to get involved with when going to Rio, so be ready to be in the movement.
- Maryano Maya
Neighborhood in Rio
“This is my go-to place for drinking and dancing on the weekends. Make sure to start with Caninha da Roça, it’s basically this cheap Cachaca for the local people, it’s an experience. Just ask around where to get it. This place truly highlights the lifestyle of the people, associated with the Malandro cariocas, who like samba, spending the night dancing.
Iconic spot in Rio
"Originally it’s where most of the black people that were brought to this continent due to slavery arrived. One of the cradles of african-brazilian culture. I go there quite often on Monday nights when there is samba music playing all night long. It’s like going back in time when the African communities arrived and settled here.
Shopping district in Rio
“This is where I go shopping for a lot of cheap things. In there you can find Saara marketplace, where you can find anything you can possibly think of. From jerseys, souvenirs, clothes- a lot cheaper than in the South Zone.
Beach kiosk in Rio
"It’s a legalized place for people to smoke. For me, this is my favorite beach in all of Rio. It's a great vibration. It’s where people from favelas go, and a lot of locals for sure.”
Cultural Center in Rio
“There's tons of great food options here. there is good karaoke, and lots of live music and dancing. ”
Favela in Rio
“This community is 100% open to the public, and we don’t really call it a Favela here. There are thousands of gringos living there because it’s simply a great place to live, close to downtown, and very cheap. I usually visit the local businesses & go hiking, it gives a whole different view of the sugar loaf and Rio.
National Park in Rio
"It’s simply the biggest urban forest in the world, you have to see it for yourself. It’s a great place to connect with my ancestors. When I walk within this park, I always feel connected with nature.”
Favela in Rio
"There are a lot of things to be done there, through different projects, it’s a very original and creative community. I work at an NGO there, created by local black people that were essential in order for the community to thrive. This is where I find my purpose. I used to work here a few days a week.”
"Maracanã is our stadium, but also my favourite neighbourhood in Rio. Here, you will also find Aldeia Maracanã, basically it’s the only indigenous community inside of Rio. You cannot go there by yourself, but you can come there with me, and book the experience with Hyperlocal!"
Brazilian Indigenous Model turned Activist
A truly vibrant & creative city
In this next guide, Maryano takes us to the Argentine Capital to revisit his favourite spots in the city that helped him launch his career in the creative industry.
