Rio de Janeiro travel blog: Written by a local
Where to stay in Downtown and Lapa, Rio de Janeiro: Is this area right for your trip?
Downtown by day, Lapa by night, a local's guide to Rio's most historic (and budget-friendly) area, from a Carioca who knows both sides.
Best street samba in Downtown Rio de Janeiro: where locals gather on weekends
Not all samba experiences in Rio are the same. If Lapa is all about nightlife and Pedra do Sal is famous for its crowds, Downtown Rio is where you'll find relaxed weekend street samba in the heart of the city's historic center.