One of the things that a number of tourist fail to do is to observe local cultures and traditions and learning to respect them. There is always this adage when you are in a foreign country "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." and this applies to you when you travel to Rio de Janeiro. Although this has been a very old quote, it still stands true today if you wish to enjoy the best of what the city has to offer. Researching about the place first and observing the right things to do will help you save from embarrassment.
- Rio de Janeiro is a relaxed city and clothing is not really much of a problem. Just dress yourself comfortable according to your taste, preferably casual. But saying that dressing lesser or revealing too much does not mean that your fashion sense is shabby. The Cariocas are famously known to be style conscious. Avoid an attire that will make you look like a tourist and you will fit perfectly into the informal fashion show of Rio.
- When you eat out, avoid the greasy foods that are usually deep fried such as the botequim or the neighborhood bar and head instead to the suco bar or juice bar to get that freshly squeezed maracuja or passion flower, guava, papaya, mango or the fruta do conde, another term for fruit-of-count juice. Order the Amazonian berry açai if you want a special treat of your own. This treat is blended to perfection, turning it into tropical smoothie.
- As with social etiquette, it is an essential thing to do to have body contact. When you greet others, the women kiss the women, women also kiss mean and vice versa. This is composed of two kisses on both cheeks, first done on the right cheek. Between men, they exchange handshake which will be followed with a few pats on the back and lingering one arm embrace over the shoulder.
It is dangerous to drive in Rio de Janeiro by yourself and by all means just use public transport since the Cariocas are famous for being wannabe racers of Formula 1. Taxis would be the best choice if you wish to go around Rio. They are plentiful and cheap as well. When you cross the street, look carefully from right to left, including the bicycle lanes if you value your life. The Cariocas do not stop at red lights or even when pedestrians cross the street.