Rio De Janeiro Is Your Answer To Escaping Canadian Winters

Yes, it may only be January and the very beginning of winter but as all Canadians know, to survive the cold here in the Great White North, you need an exit strategy. Well, maybe not an “exit” per-say, but rather an escape plan. Preferably to somewhere where the temperatures aren’t below zero.

Enter Rio De Janeiro, where the current climate is upwards of 30ºC and the landscape is as lush as it is lively. Think panoramic oceanic views, energetic samba circles, rainforest hikes. But the city has more to offer than just endless beaches and colourful carnivals (as fun as those are!).

According to Kàtia Barros, the co-founder and creative director of Brazilian-brand Farm Rio, there are endless hidden things to do in Rio De Janeiro like trying Moquequinha do Rio (fish stew), getting pampered at a spa in a national park, shopping in the Ipanema neighborhood and so much more.

Here, we’ve rounded up Kàtia Barros top things to do in Rio De Janeiro. Because nothing beats the winter blues like a shot of Brazilian sun.

Where to eat

Território Aprazível

“It has the best food, amazing cocktails, incredible music, and the most impressive views of Rio. I highly recommend the creamy acai guacamole and the Moquequina do Rio, made with fish, vegetables, rice, and coconut milk.”

Where to shop

Pulsa

“Apart from Farm Rio, I love Pulsa, a multi-brand shop located in the Ipanema neighbourhood. The store curates a diverse range of high-end fashion labels from across the globe, showcasing unique styles and cutting-edge designs that are hard to find elsewhere.”

Where to unwind

Spa Rituaali

“Spa Rituali is about two hours from the city but the journey is worth it. It’s situated in Itatiaia National Park, where you’re surrounded by the Atlantic Forest, fresh air, and the silence of the mountains.”

Where to stay

Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro

“The pool at Fasano has some of my favorite views of Rio. You can have a drink while watching the sunset. It is the perfect place to enjoy alone or in the company of friends.”

Where to Caffeinate

Slow Bakery

“There are some lovely cafes in Rio such as Slow Bakery. There are some really cool spots with cozy atmospheres, delicious pastries, and friendly staff, making them perfect places to relax and enjoy a great cup of coffee.”

What to wear

Farm Rio Rio de Janeiro Relaxed T-shirt

“Rio de Janeiro is an unpretentious city: You can start your day at the beach and, still in a bikini with salty hair, go to a bar and stay all night long. That’s why I would say pack a very cool relaxed T-shirt, like this one. You can wear it over your bikini or pair it with jeans.”

This article first appeared in FASHION’s November 2024 issue. Find out more here.