The iconic city of Rio de Janeiro is known for its lively atmosphere and for the white sandy beaches adorning the coast. Another reason for the city being so popular is the world known landmark Christ the Redeemer statue which has often starred in a wide variety of films. While you head off to this Brazilian city filled with the scenic natural landscape, we recommend some activities for you to try, especially during the New Year.

Rio de Janeiro is a world famous city and a tourist paradise. On sunny days you can visit the beautiful Copacabana and Ipanema beaches (the latter being the subject of the famous Bossa Nova song written by Antônio Carlos Jobim). At other times you may try dancing the samba, strolling uphill to see the statue of Christ the Redeemer, visiting one of the dozens of islands in Guanabara Bay or exploring Floresta da Tijuca, one of the biggest urban forests in the world.

Known for the scenic sunrise and the colourful neighbourhood, Rio is quite popular among the tourists for being a destination where you get to laze around by the beach. Despite the city’s best tourist attractions, the culture is also what makes the city stand out. Check out some of the city’s best theatres and concert venues that you must attend during your stay in the Brazilian city.

Every country has their own take on good and bad luck, but few are as wide-ranging and interesting as that of Brazil. As a nation with strong cultural heritage not just within Rio, but the country as a whole, it was inevitable that there would be a few aspects held as charms of luck, for good or for bad. So read on to get a sense of what you should look out for, and maybe you'll be able to make your next day out all the more fortunate.