World Cup and Olympics have 'shed a new light on Rio'

Rio de Janeiro is seen as a "must-have" destination on the itinerary of those on adventure holidays in South America and its reputation will only be further enhanced by two major global events being hosted by the city in coming years, it has been claimed.

The Brazilian city is set to host the Olympic Games in 2016 and will be one of the central components of Brazil's hosting of the football World Cup in 2014 with the final to be staged in the city.

According to Chris Fuzinatto, director of the Brazilian Tourist Office UK, the international focus this has placed on Rio will make the city and the country as a whole even more popular destination for those visiting South America.

"Winning the bid to host the World Cup in 2014 as well as the Olympic Games in 2016 has shed a new light on Rio and subsequently the whole country has received more interest and recognition from tourists as well as the media than in previous years," he said.

"Tourists are recognising how diverse Brazil is as a destination and Rio is seen as a must-have part of any Brazil itinerary due to its incredible iconic sights."

Rio is home to some of Brazil's best-known landmarks, including the Christ the Redeemer statue and one of the world's largest and most famous football stadiums - the Maracana.

Its beaches are internationally renowned while thousands flock to the city each year for its Carnival celebrations.

Mr Fuzinatto added that better transport links to Rio as a result of the World Cup and Olympics are also making it more accessible for visitors from the UK.

"Flights to Rio have been increased by airlines such as British Airways, which will be doubling the frequency of their flights to Rio from three to six almost every day in order to accommodate the increase in visitors."