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Tainá Vilela

Rio creative Tainá Vilela describes her city as "home of laid back, bohemian Bossa Nova tunes and vibrant samba beats. Surrounded by mountains, with flickering favela lights, bathed by the sea and boardwalks where golden girls of Ipanema parade, Rio is a place where beauty is found in contradiction".

Tainá shares her local knowledge to help you navigate the many neighbourhoods and get a taste of all the sides Rio has to offer. Read on for her top 3 neighbourhoods and her go to spots to sample Rio's culture.

: is a bohemian, well off neighbourhood. It has some of the nicest restaurants and shops. 

: previously the red light district of Rio, it has been revitalised and now one of the best places for a night out. 

: the most charming neighbourhood, it has traditional bars and some crazy viewpoints where you can see all of Rio from above."

I would mostly be skeptical about eating two of the most famous Brazilian delicacies together: pao de queijo and acai, but please order both if you go to this place

Every Monday there’s live samba music at Pedra do Sal. The place was originally a Quilombo village, which held houses of freed slaves. Famous Brazilian musicians have played there. Arrive at around 6pm!

Most guides will feature Lenny and Osklen but the best kept secret of cool carioca girls is Haight, a modern minimalist swimwear brand. They also make jumpers and baggy trousers that are everything

Ana Porto does some of the nicest pieces of jewellery in Brazil. They're all handcrafted with local stones and have a modern feel. You can visit her atelier which is right by Haight

If colour blocking is your thing, Wymann is the brand for you. Founded by ex-model Raquel, the brand plays with folds and colours. Ask them how the colours are produced!

If going to bohemian Santa Teresa, grab a roast sandwich or an aubergine pizza if you're veggie. I’d also recommend the batida de coco. The owner's a bit serious, but you can always try get her to crack a smile. Take cash cause they don’t accept cards!

This house belongs to the Moreira Salles family (bankers, cinematographers and publishers). It’s a classic example of great 50s architectural work. It now serves as a cultural centre dedicated mostly to photography, music, literature and iconography exhibits and events

An old chocolate factory that now holds space for artists ateliers, rising fashion brands (check out the accessories of Atelier Tarsila and say hello to Cla, the owner) and a very charming bookshop (Felipe, the owner, is always there and can help you with art and Sufism books, but also pro food tips). Every first Saturday of the month people flock there to shop, drink and see the sunset. Def go to the rooftop for some live music and a cold beer

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