December in Rio means floating Christmas trees, the countdown to summer, and the world's most famous New Year's Eve on Copacabana. Here's everything to expect.

Compare Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, Botafogo, Flamengo, and Barra to find the neighborhood that best matches your budget and travel style.

New Year's Eve in Copacabana is unlike anything else on earth, but it's also easy to get wrong. Here's what I tell every friend visiting for the first time, from where to stay to the one thing most guides never mention.