An architour of Oscar Niemeyer's Brazil is like a trip to Disneyland for aesthetes.

By most counts, Rio de Janeiro was one of the first jet-set vacation destinations, even before jets were flying. Now, Rio is cooking up even more reasons to visit, thanks to two major global sporting events and several new museums in the works.

Steps were also hand-chiseled into the steep slope for the king's convenience, but he disregarded both and galloped up the sheer rock to the summit like a goat.

Rio de Janeiro may not be paradise, but through the lens of Joe Simon's Canon 5D Mark III it sure looks like it. The Brazilian city, which will soon...

Opened in 1998, the park closed after a 61-year old woman fell to her death on a ride. Terra Encantada has been empty since. But it won't remain in this state for long -- the site is ripe for redevelopment in preparation for the Olympics.

This is the rainiest month in Rio and the waters that wash away the residue of Carnival also usher in the school year, a return to work and all of the things that September means for Americans.

Rio is rich with more than shopping, eating and people-watching. There is a thriving arts, cultural and nightlife experience in all sectors of the city.

If you're looking for a way to get to know real Brazilian culture, Carnival is a fantastic time, with many neighborhoods proudly represented and displaying their very best.