The 288-page guide leads the reader through the labyrinth of streets in this city of more than 14 million people, which was Brazil’s capital until 1960. Known today for its joyous lifestyle, Rio will host the World Foot Championship in 2014 and is a candidate to host the 2016 Olympic Games. Readers will discover everything that the city has to offer, from the world-famous Ipanema and Copacabana beaches to the statue of Christ the Redeemer. They can walk in Tijuca National Park and admire the many species of flora and fauna in the botanical gardens. They can take the cable car (the “bondinho”) to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, 395 meters above the sea, where they’ll drink a caipirinha—Brazil’s national cocktail—on a shady terrace. They’ll dance to the samba music, then attend a football match at Maracana Stadium, one of the world’s largest.

To be released initially in English and Portuguese, then in French in 2010, the Michelin Green Guide Rio de Janeiro, is divided into districts. It presents all the sites and attractions, some of which have been awarded stars to highlight their interest for tourists—one star for “interesting,” two stars for “worth a detour” and three for “worth the journey.”

The Michelin Green Guide Rio de Janeiro describes the rich history of this city—which is nestled into one of most beautiful bays in the world—from its original Amerindian settlers to its colonization by the Portuguese and the influence of the black African people. It also describes Rio’s cultural and architectural treasures and provides a selection of places to shop, have lunch or dinner, or spend the night. To help readers find their way about, 11 street plans and maps have been included.

There is also a section that contains a wealth of practical information to ensure an enjoyable stay, as well as a calendar of major events, a list of useful website, advice on tipping, and helpful hints on using transportation.

Michelin is the world’s leading tire manufacturer. Its product and service offerings enhance the mobility of people and goods. Michelin produces tires for every type of vehicle, including airplanes, automobiles, bicycles, earthmovers, farm equipment, heavy-duty trucks, motorcycles and the U.S. space shuttle.
Michelin also produces and markets digital mobility-assistance services (ViaMichelin.com) and a wide range of publications. These include tourist guides (with the celebrated Green Guides, currently available in nine languages) and the MICHELIN guides to hotels and restaurants that today cover 23 countries, as well as maps and atlases for Europe, a number of African and Asian countries, and the United States.
Last year, some 16 million maps and guides were sold in around 100 countries, making Michelin one of the world’s leading travel and tourism publishers. Headquartered in Clermont-Ferrand, France, Michelin is present in 170 countries, has 118,000 employees and operates 68 production plants in 19 different countries. (www.michelin.com). Michelin has been present in Brazil for more than 80 years and has 5,000 employees.

For more information: www.cartesetguides.michelin.fr et www.michelin-boutique.com

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