Brazil is a football crazy country and Rio de Janeiro is one city, which is head over heels in love with the game. The latest fever to grip the thriving city is the FIFA Football World Cup 2014. The biggest sporting action of the year is coming to Brazil this year and Rio being an integral part of the event is gearing in full swing to welcome the game, the participants, and the spectators. The game, which is set to open to a lavish ceremony in Brasilia on June 12, will conclude in a glittering ceremony at the landmark Maracanã Stadium in Rio. Overall, 2.4 million visitors are expected to flock to the country to participate in the pulsating event and set the city on fire.
What to expect in Rio
The football world cup is scheduled between June 12 and July 13, 2014 across twelve cities in the country. However, of the many games, seven matches are lined up for the city.
Itinerary for the Main Games
Quarter-finals
- July 4 – Fortaleza and Rio de Janeiro
- July 5 - Brasilia and Salvador
Semi Finals
- July 8 - Belo Horizonte
- July 9 - Sao Paulo
Finals
Where to head to in Rio
The city of Rio is absolutely in love with the game. The fever has begun to grip the city and its people in its wild clutches already. Posters of the game adorn the city walls. Young fans are soaking themselves in the fun by wearing colorful outfits in support of their favorite teams. Other goodies associated with the world cup are available in the market. Aficionados can be seen cheering in support of their beloved teams. The whole city seems to be enjoying the maddening fun! However, the best place to head towards during the event is the iconic - The Maracanã Stadium. This stadium is situated in the Zona Norte within the vicinity of Tijuca locality.
Where to stay in Rio
Rio is one of the most beautiful cities in the entire South American region and the world. Being a popular tourist resort, various hotels are located within the city. Travelers thronging the city during the time of sporting event should look for budgeted as well as mid range and premium accommodation in the Zona Sul area. Zona Sul comprises neighborhoods of Flamengo, Laranjeiras, Botafogo, Jardim Botânico, Gávea, Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon. All of these localities are well connected through a strong transportation network. Apart from indulging in football at the stadium, travelers can go out to eat and shop as well. Besides, some of these neighborhoods are short distance from the city beaches and offer unlimited fun and solace under the sun!
Beware and stay vigilant
Like any other city in the world, Rio too has another side to it. Though one needs to beware of the touts, the city is not violent, as many of us believe it to be. Ever since the country won the bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2014, the city has been taking care of its law and order with iron fists. The situation over the past has improved manifolds. However, it is a word of caution for the outsiders to be aware and not fall in the trap of the local thieves.
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