Arrival in Rio was sunny and fine. Since the Copacabana was 4 Kms long, we decided that nearly every morning we would run along the beach. Between the 2 beaches was an outdoor gym which was free - so after the run we would do 20-30 min here before walking along Ipanema just for the fun.
After the work we would enjoy a coconut drink or my favourite Mango juice. Was fun to start every day like this.
However 5 of 7 days was raining. Which made it difficult to spend entire days on the beach. So we would try some markets, or hang out at the hostel. As gorgeous as the city is - if it is raining it can be tough to find anything interesting to do. Especially when you need to share common room, bedrooms with others.
However as hostels go "Walk on the Beach" hostel is pretty nice. Everyone is pretty nice and helpful.
Copacabana is the main tourist beach that streches a long 4km. The sand is bright yellow, the waters cold with strong waves. Often it brings with the waves so much seaweed that the water colour is that of jade marble. Here you see many a lazing in the sun, or playing the popular footvolley, volleyball and ofcourse football(soccer). So many play and can't help but smile at the local talent they all have to play such games. Locals also sell sarongs/towels, bikini's, food, fresh coconuts to drink all along it's black and white paved boardwalks. The effect is a fun, stunning, lively beach full of laughter and gringos.
The neighboring beach is Ipanema beach. The word "Ipanema" comes from the old Tupi language, meaning "bad water"; in the sense of bad for fishing, since the waves die too close to the sand, pushing fish away. The beach is far from bad though. Personally was my favourite beach in Rio. Here is easy to find a quiet place to fall asleep to the heavy sounds of the water crashing. While still having the little luxuries of the fresh coconuts and icecreams.
