One of SO’s favourite power couples on The Rock share their top 10 landmarks from Almeida’s native home

1. Corcovado – the Cariocas’ (this is what locals call people from Rio) pride and joy. Named in 2007 as one of the wonders of the world. Breathtaking view of Rio de Janeiro.

2. Sugar Loaf – called ‘pão de açúcar’ by Brazilians famous for the beautiful views and accessible by ‘bondinho’ (gondola).

3. Copacabana Beach – one of the most popular beaches in Rio and where locals meet to play ‘pelada’ (slang for a quick beach football match) this beach is where Brazilians gather all dressed in white to celebrate ‘réveillon’ (New Year’s Eve)

4. Tijuca Park – the jungle inside the city. Hike your way up to ‘Pico da Tijuca’, the highest point of the mountain.

5. Lapa Steps (Escadaria Selaron); the famous steps in Lapa. Featured in numerous music videos including Snoop Dogg’s Beautiful.

6. Morro da Urca, known as Pao de Açúcar’s (Sugar Loaf’s) little brother. Its a beautiful hike up this smaller mountain.

7. Hang gliding, vôo de asa delta, ie, free flying from the top of the mountain to Praia Bonita. Absolutely a must do for the brave ones!

8. Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil; an art gallery, museum and theatre displaying Brazilian art and history.

9. Local Beaches, Ipanema, Tijuca, Leblon… cariocas are crazy for their beaches. Girls don their fio dental (G-string bikini) and guys rock their speedos showing as much skin as possible. In fact, beautiful girls strolling down Ipanema Beach inspired Tom Jobin to compose the famous song ‘garota de Ipanema’ (Ipanema girl).

10. Favela Tours – the slums in Rio are now open to the public. It’s an eye-opening experience to see the contrast between the rich and the poor in such a small region.