Vicente Cardone at a train station in Rio

What I've Learned in Rio de Janeiro: My Experiences

Soccer and carnival – Argentinian Vicente Cardone shares these two passions with the Cariocas, the inhabitants of Rio de Janeiro. In 2007, he came to the city on Sugar Loaf Mountain for love – and stayed. Here he talks about his experiences in the metropolis

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4 min read
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The New 

The first thing that struck me when I arrived in Rio de Janeiro was the balance between metropolis and nature that prevails. In this exciting, almost hyperactive city, residents find tranquility in tropical forests with idyllic waterfalls and diverse wildlife. Rio's unique topography also offers breathtaking views that continue to amaze me to this day.

The Essence 

Rio is a city that combines history, cosmopolitanism, and the beauty of nature. It exudes a vibrant cosmopolitan energy that is reflected in its colorful cultural scene and nightlife – all set against a backdrop of iconic beaches, evergreen rainforest, and landmarks such as Sugar Loaf Mountain and the famous Christ the Redeemer statue that watches over the city.  

View of the staircase designed by Jorge Selarón
With its colorful tiles, the Selaron Staircase is one of the most visited attractions in Rio de Janeiro (© Shutterstock)
Vicente Cardone, smiling and waving in front of a blurred background
Vicente Cardone loves Rio de Janeiro and the carnival (© Private)
Scene from the street carnival in Rio de Janeiro
World-famous for its fast rhythms, for dancing, and for joy: carnival in Rio de Janeiro (© Getty Images)
"I admire the Cariocas' carefree way of celebrating and enjoying life."
Vicente Cardone

The Inspiration 

Shortly after I moved to Rio, I had the privilege of working with the artist Jorge Selarón, who designed the famous Selarón Steps in the Lapa district. They are located right next to his former home and studio and are now one of the three most-visited tourist attractions in Rio. My job was to explain the history of the Selarón Steps to visitors and tell them about the life of the artist who died in 2013. This was a fantastic start in both the tourism industry and the art scene.

The People 

The Cariocas, as the inhabitants of Rio call themselves, are warm-hearted and cheerful. I admire their carefree way of celebrating and enjoying life. The Cariocas have a unique charm and an infectious friendliness. Joy can be felt at every turn, be it at a samba circle, a beach gathering, or a neighborhood party. Her ability to always see the positive, even in the face of adversity, inspires me time and time again. Incidentally, Carioca means something like "white house." This is what the local Tupi Indians called the first settlement of the Portuguese colonialists.

The Realization 

It was important to me to discover that the two passions of the Cariocas are my passions, too: soccer and carnival. As a good Argentinian, I am a passionate soccer player. And I was captivated by the carnival from the very first time I saw it. The infectious energy of the samba schools, the creativity of the costumes and floats, and the euphoria of the people are fascinating. Experiencing a parade in the Sambadrome means completely immersing yourself in a lively and sensual universe. Fascinated by this unique world, I have also dedicated myself professionally to the carnival. 

For Friends 

The old town with its historic sights and rich architecture is one of the places I like to show friends. Just like the Botanical Gardens, the Parque Lage, and the Olympic Boulevard. From a soccer fan's point of view, a visit to the Maracanã stadium is a must. Carioca cuisine deserves a special mention. Moqueca, a fish stew, açaí, the fruit of the cabbage palm, and the inevitable caipirinha are among the must-try delicacies that give an authentic impression of Brazil.

About:

For Vicente Cardone, Rio de Janeiro is a double love story. When he arrived there in 2007, he first fell in love with his current wife and then with the city. He works as a tour guide and runs a travel agency specializing in Carnival in Rio.

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