In Brazilian telenovelas, Leblon is shorthand for old money. This guide breaks down whether Rio's most exclusive beachfront neighborhood is the right fit for your trip — from Dias Ferreira's restaurants to the city's safest stretch of sand.

Where you stay during Carnival shapes your entire experience. Here's an honest breakdown of every major neighborhood regarding crowds, logistics, prices, and who each area is really right for.

From beachfront Copacabana to bohemian Santa Teresa: a local's honest guide to every Rio neighborhood, and who each one is really right for.