Get local in Rio with Model Maryano Maya

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There is no place in the world like Rio

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

Lapa - Hyperlocal Guide

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.

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Pedra do Sal - Hyperlocal Guide

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.

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Saara Bazaar - Hyperlocal Guide

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.

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Rasta Beach - Barraca 20 - Hyperlocal Guide

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.”

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Luiz Gonzaga Center for Northeastern Traditions - Centro Luiz Gonzaga de Tradições Nordestinas

Cultural Center in Rio

“There's tons of great food options here. there is good karaoke, and lots of live music and dancing. ” 

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Morro do Babilonia - Hyperlocal Guide

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.

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Tijuca National Park - Hyperlocal Guide

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.”

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Vidigigal Favela - Hyperlocal Guide

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.”

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Maracana Stadium - Hyperlocal Guide

Maracanã

"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!"

Featuring Maryano Maya

Brazilian Indigenous Model turned Activist

Maryano kickstarted his modelling career with a mission to promote his Indigenous roots. He now represents some of the biggest fashion brands in Brazil, and uses his platform and travel agenda to empower his community all over the country. After spending some years abroad, he is now happy to call Rio home once again.


More about Maryano Maya
Hyperlocal Guide - Maryano Maya
Maryano Maya - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Hyperlocal Guide

Explore Part II: Maryano in Buenos Aires

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.

Explore guide