If Rio de Janeiro isn’t on your travel list yet, this episode might just change that!
I sat down with globetrotter Marissa Gomes (no relation, but we’ve worked together twice!) to chat about Rio de Janeiro, Brazil—her husband’s homeland and a place that feels like a second home. With over 40 countries under her belt, Marissa shares personal insights into what makes Rio so magnetic, from the iconic beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana to hidden gems like the car-free island of Ilha Grande.
We dive into everything from the best times to visit, local food and drinks (hello, passionfruit caipirinhas!), navigating Rio with kids, and her unforgettable experience at the World Cup. Marissa paints a picture of a city buzzing with energy, warmth, and a deep love of life — and gives you all the tips you need to make the most of your own Brazilian adventure. And let me tell you - she makes a strong case for booking a flight now.
Here are some highlights and top travel tips from our chat:
🏖️ Where to Stay & Explore
Marissa prefers Ipanema, close to both the beach and the upscale neighborhood of Leblon, ideal for walking, juice stands, and dining.
Recommends Airbnb over hotels, especially for families.
Hidden Gem: Ilha Grande, a car-free island a couple of hours from Rio, offers a quiet, nature-forward beach experience.
Other notable areas include Copacabana, Praia Vermelha (Red Beach), and the Botanical Garden.
🍹 Food & Drink Musts
Drinks: Caipirinhas (especially passionfruit), fresh tropical juices, coconut water.
Dishes: Steak with rice and beans, farofa (toasted yucca), feijoada (meat and black bean stew), and daily favorite pão de queijo (Brazilian cheese bread - look for Brazi Bites in the frozen section of U.S. grocery stores!)
Recommends trying unfamiliar fruits in juice form — many kiosks offer options like cashew fruit, lychee, mango, etc.
🎶 Nightlife
Rio has a rich and varied nightlife with open-air bars and casual sidewalk gatherings.
The Lapa neighborhood is the hotspot for clubs, live music, and vibrant crowds.
Brazilians are social and affectionate — expect double cheek kisses and long goodbyes!
👨👩👧👧 Traveling with Kids
Very kid-friendly culture: accommodating Airbnbs, beaches with amenities, playgrounds (like the one between Leblon and Ipanema), and family-oriented services.
Locals are welcoming and offer priority to families and elders in public settings.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
Avoid the peak heat of December–February (Rio’s summer, typically 90-100 degree Fahernheit and humid!)
Ideal travel months: March–May or September–October for warm weather and fewer crowds.
🗺️ Top Things to Do
Relax on Ipanema Beach, sip coconut water, and people-watch.
Visit Sugarloaf Mountain at sunset for panoramic views.
Explore Christ the Redeemer, Botanical Garden, and Parque Lage.
Experience local shopping malls and pick up Havaianas flip-flops as souvenirs.
Watching a soccer match at Maracanã Stadium
⚠️ Tips for Tourists
Don’t assume Portuguese is Spanish — learn a few key Portuguese phrases.
Stay alert in big crowds, watch your belongings, and avoid wandering into favelas unless on a guided tour.
Most restaurants have menus in both Portuguese and English.
Meet Marissa Gomes
Marissa Gomes recently visited her 40th country - seeing the world was always her goal from a young age and she is definitely making good progress! When she is not planning her next trip, she is working hard as a Marketing Director in the consumer packaged goods industry. Marissa lives in the Bay Area with her twin daughters and her husband who is originally from Brazil. They all enjoy finding anything Brazilian they can in the area - from their favorite snack foods to capoeira or jiu jitsu. Marissa is conversant in Portuguese, as she wanted to be able to explore independently and really get a feel for Brazilian culture.
Muito obrigada Marissa for sharing all of your top tips and recommendations for visiting vibrant Rio de Janeiro!
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