Tuesday 13 November 2012

Spectacular Things To Do In Rio: Know The Perfect Spots For Your New Year's Eve Party

By Robert Murgatroyd


Each and every one of us is responsible to what we choose to do with our lives, correct? Saying that, nobody else but you can decide where you want to spend your New Year's Eve. It depends if you're the kind who's more comfortable watching a crowd having a blast and partying on the streets on TV or you're someone who wants to be a part of that party crowd. If you happen to be the latter, then be assured of the most unforgettable New Year's Eve in Rio. Since this is one of the most sought after places for this event, be prepared of a few challenges before finding yourself partying the night away. Booking for your flight and hotel 8 to 10 months earlier could be the key. If you can't, the chance to continue with your plan can become vague or even close to impossible. Keep in mind that 3 million people out there are also planning the same thing so it's best to act earlier. Here are some more tips to guarantee a more satisfying time in Rio.

Hotel: I'm definitely a bit of a pain when it comes to hotels. Kim has a rule when she checks into a hotel with me, she sits in the lobby until I have vetted everything from the room position in the hotel (i.e. not near an elevator) to the street noise coming into the room. It's actually kind of funny at this point. That being said, the only place I would recommend is the new Fasano Hotel. It's an outstanding hotel. I should mention that the Fasano is located in Ipanema and not in Copacabana (where the New Year's Eve fireworks are). For my money it's still the place to stay. Speaking of money, it will definitely cost you to stay there for New Years' Eve. Plan on (pre-paying 6 months in advance) about $1,200 per night for the New Year's Eve package (the 3 days surrounding New Year's). The other nights are about half that. I know it's expensive, but it's worth it..

The Week Leading Up To New Year's Eve: Depending on when you arrive (I recommend arriving the day after Christmas), you'll notice a daily palpable increase in excitement and crowds leading up to New Year's Eve. There are a ton of restaurant options and places to party. Remember, this place is nuts during this period so book restaurant reservations in advance or have a Fasano Black card to wave around (it really does have magical powers). My favorite restaurants for food, scene and vibe are listed below. I've also included my top picks for lounges, clubs and shopping.

Restaurants

1. Zuka in Leblon - Here is where you can find a kind of modern scene that gives out a statement of ultimate style, beautiful people, superb food and excellent vibe.

2. Sushi Leblon (Leblon) - This is the place I highly advise for you to go when you're up for the best sushi under a cosmopolitan style environment. Waiting is well worth it when you've tasted the food, experience their kind of service and blend in with a crowd that lightens up the atmosphere.

3. Satyricion in Ipanema - A striking lobster tank, tropical clams, mussels, oysters to name a few are what you will encounter when you're just about to enter the place. It is highly known to be one of the best and pioneering seafood place in Rio. Mick Jagger is a frequent visitor in Brazil. Since he goes there to visit his son Lucas, the place he goes to every time he's there is Satyricion. What Jagger states as one of the finest in the world used to be a humble fisherman's hangout.

4. Gero (Ipanema) - It is widely known for their desserts such as the lemon petit gateau as well as offering the most excellent wine list, great food and optimum service. Since this Italian restaurant is where various celebrities choose to dine, it is best to make a reservation.

5. Aprazivel (Santa Theresa). This is a casual but amazing place with phenomenal views and incredible Brazilian contemporary food. The neighborhood, although dodgy, is old and quaint and worth a visit. Northeastern Brazilian food is the staple here and is very tasty and inventive. Book the tree tables (2 to 3 days in advance).

6. Zaza Bistro (Ipanema) - A marvelous combination of Asian and Brazilian dishes are found in this bistro. You can have another epic dining experience on their pillow tops located on the second floor or just at their tables outside.

Lounges

1. Londro (Ipanema) - If you are into watching world renowned DJs and bands then this is where you can get a taste of it along with an intensely select group of people. This bar is located at the lobby of the Fasano Hotel and is open seven days a week at 7 in the evening.

2. 00 Zero Zero (Leblon). Clean dcor, full of pillows and candles and outside. Saturday nights are fantastic, great music and beautiful people. Lounge music outside and house music inside.

3. Boox (Ipanema).Thursday or Friday or Saturday: A contemporary Italian restaurant that almost becomes a nightclub as the evening moves on. This is a classy, sophisticated and really fun lounge. It's small and selective. Filled with beautiful people and great music. The best lounge in Ipanema. Make reservations for this one.

4. Rio Scenarium (Lapa) - Going here Saturdays is the most recommended. It has a setting of Rio in the 1920's and definitely a place you don't want to miss going while in Rio. Samba music is prominent and it's actually a restaurant, a nightclub and a bar in one place with a very affordable price list. It's also good for you to visit the place during the weekend or Wednesdays and reserve a table alongside the dance floor. You can't quite imagine this place, used to be an inconspicuous antique store and now holding 3,000 people. It is best to be there earlier than 10:30 to avoid being in a very long line.

Shopping

1. Reserva in Ipanema - Here is where you can find one of the best when it comes to Carioca clothing. It has gained a name as the newest and the trendiest places for shopping in Ipanema.

2. Osklen in Ipanema - Definitely one of the must-gos in Rio and witness the designs of the genius Oskar Metsavaht and his instilled "Brazilian Soul" clothing brand. Osklen is absolutely the most dominant and sophisticated clothing store with branches in Geneva, New York, Milan and Rome.

Filling the void - Hang gliding in Rio is my absolute recommendation. There is no doubt in my mind that you will have the experience that's beyond compare like I have.

Bottom Line - Pack up and go. Rio is one of the best places to spend your New Year's Eve to just let your wild side come out, freeing that stressed soul or to simply be with the coolest party people.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment