Carioca is Rio de Janeiro

Easy to love, hard to leave, Rio de Janeiro is also called "Cidade Marvilhosa" because it is an authentic place of beauty. Its most famous image is not a photo, but a song: "Garota de Ipanema" the seashore, the city, the surroundings all of that is Rio de Janeiro, I proudly say it is truly one of my favorite gay-friendly places on Earth! Ipanema is the place to be. 

This neighborhood is famous for its incredibly photogenic beach. It also has some of Rio's best gay bars, nightclubs, fine dining, shopping, and culture. 

Every time I land in Rio, I feel the happiness and welcome by the local smile, realizing that the people there have this easy-going way of living. But, above all, knowing that you will thoroughly enjoy their city is finally a dream comes true. 

Being Gay there is not a problem at all, and I will say that you are more than welcome! 

The Copacabana and Ipanema are the most famous beaches in the world. They are  easy to access, walking or stopping by a little café next to the beaches for a beer or fresh coconut water while you observing the boys playing volleyball or doing fitness is a happy moment for sure. Copacabana and Ipanema will then deliver their secrets. Close your eyes, and you are there. 

Fame Gay Beach is located in Ipanema. Its nickname is "Barbie Land," a term used to describe the beautifully buff and polished men that parade this beach. However, be careful using this term in the city; some men may find it offensive. 

The gay section of the beach is clearly flagged with countless rainbow banners and gorgeous Brazilians in tiny speedos. If that is not obvious enough, look for posto (lifeguard towers) 8 and 9; the gay beach is between here.  A great place to live your tall, tan young, and lovely fantasy.

If you want to play harder with some locals, you can go to a popular gay cruise bar located in central Rio. "Seven" features' showers and private cabin facilities. If this is not enough, why not going to a Sauna?  The iconic gay sauna is in the heart of Rio de Janeiro's gay district, Ipanema. Facilities include private cabins, a fitness room, a video room, a bar, a dark room, and a steam and sauna room. Relax and enjoy a massage after a long night of exploring the local bars and clubs or spend the evening at this sauna after a day of sun-soaking on the famous beaches nearby.

Leblon is the most fashionable beach; its wonderful park and Botafogo offer a unique view of Sugarloaf Mountain and beautiful sunsets. Barra da Tijuca and São Conrado beaches are perfect for surfing, and Joatinga is undoubtedly the most secret. Among the many beaches, there are also the quieter ones, such as Praia da Reserva and Praia de Fora.

In my opinion, the Rio Botanical garden is another exuberant place to visit. Walking along the alleys, getting lost in between the trees, feeling the freshness of the area, taking photos of the Greenhouse where many kinds of Orchids are blooming, sitting on one of many benches is an absolutely inspiring quality moment. 

If you want to escape from Ipanema and Copacabana, there is a Restaurant that you may want to go to. The Rubaiyat at the hippodrome is an enjoyable place, out of the box for a great diner moment where you may meet a jockey. For sure, this is a gay-friendly place; in fact, is the place I love to go with friends. 

After all the quality time either at the beach or with friends, let me tell you that you will not regret it at all as Brazilians always go out in small groups and it always ends partying until the early morning…experience has done.