The Rio Guide by Priscilla Zoullas: Jewelry Designer and Founder of Oiya
Priscilla Zoullas is the Woman behind Oiya: A handmade accessories company, with a global outlook. Every time you buy an accessory you are feeding a child for a day. We love Oiya's philosophy of looking and feeling good with their fun accessories that brighten up any day! Priscilla is originally from Rio de Janeiro and put together this fabulous list for your next Brazilian Adventure.
"My love for Rio is infinite. Rio is home for me. You can find the warmest people and the most beautiful landscape in the world. Charm, beauty and warmth define this city. Rio is definitely a must see"
Shopping:
Must do Market in Rio : Feira Hippie in Ipanema ( where you can find a mix of artisans, different foods from all over Brazil, paintings, home accessories, silver, stones etc.) The fair is right in between the subway and the beach, so makes an ideal stop-off point to browse in after the beach. It opens around 10am on a Sunday and closes in the early evening, usually around 5pm or 6pm. The nearest subway is Metro General Osório. When you’re in the subway, look for the exit ‘Praça General Osório’ and the Hippie Fair is right in front.
Feira Hippie de Ipanema
Swimwear in Brazil is amazing, my favorite is Lenny for Bikinis. Also like Cris Barros for women's clothes & Reserva for relaxed clothes for men & Arezzo for shoes. If you want to take back something super authentic, Granado for soaps and lotions is great!
Farm Rio, Adriana Degreas, Schutz, Osklen & Mellissa are all available in the States now but some of my Brazilian favorites.
Exploring:
Parque Lage is a beautiful botanical garden on the foot of Corcovado to walk around, enjoy the markets and have a lunch.
Parque Lage
Reserva Beach is my favorite, only 45 minutes from the centre. If you're looking for a quiet spot on the beach this is the perfect place for you. Have the Moqueca, a Brazilian Fish Stew in Bira de Guaratiba which is a seafood restaurant with amazing ocean view and super friendly staff.
Easy trips from Rio: explore the resort town of Buzios, Paraty, a historical coastal town or Angra dos Reis to explore the Islands, there are 365 of them!
Eating & Drinking:
Breakfast is my favorite meal in Rio. I love Confeitaria Colombo for a fabulous spread in front of the water. Dating from the late 19th century, the Confeitaria Colombo serves desserts befitting its Art Nouveau decor. Brigaderos and Pao de Queso are a must.
Confeitaria Colombo
For something super traditional, love Alvaro’s for brunch in Leblon: order pastel or Bar Lagoa for their potato salad & beef Milanese. Monday nights at Bar Lagao are amazing & Fogo do Chao for Churrascaria. Other restaurants: Aprazivel in Santa Teresa for lunch with a fabulous view, and for dinner Gero in Ipanema and Sushi Leblon.
If you want to feel fabulous in Rio de Janeiro The Fasano hotel is your spot. Its roof top pool has a stunning view over the beach. For cool bar and music visit the bar Baretto Londra inside the hotel.
Fancy for bar hopping? Have a drink in Dias Ferreira.
Fasano Hotel
Priscilla is wearing London Pack in Deep Ocean Blue