Awaiting Your Return From Shore |
Rio ranks as a favorite destination for visitors
from all over the world. The dark blue sea studded with rocky islands,
tumbling wooded mountains, and expanses of beaches make for a magnificent
setting.
Rio’s history effectively began on January 1, 1502, when Portuguese
captain André Gonçalves steered his craft into Guanabara Bay, thinking he
was heading into the mouth of a great river. The city takes its name from
this event: Rio de Janeiro means "River of January."
In 1763 the city replaced Salvador as Brazil’s capital. It remained
the capital until 1960, when the country’s political administration was
moved to the new federal capital of Brasilia.
Rio’s cultural diversity has derived from its nearly 500-year
history. By the 18th century, the majority of the city’s inhabitants were
African slaves. Unlike other foreign colonies, miscegenation became the rule
rather than the exception in Brazil.
Virtually nothing in Rio remained untouched by African customs, beliefs,
and behavior. It is this intriguing blend that creates an atmosphere
exclusive to Rio and most evident in the spectacular Carnival.
For some 60 years, the beach districts of Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon
have been Rio’s heart and soul, maintaining the city as the most captivating
spot in South America. |
Awaiting Your Return
From Shore |
Complimentary
Spirits Await |
Return to Your
Suite and Sail Away to The Next Adventure |
Entertainment
and Dancing Await You |