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- Cary Spotlight (Travel + Discover Edition): Issue #461
Cary Spotlight (Travel + Discover Edition): Issue #461
Five-Day Adventure Awaits in Brazil, Development Plans Threaten Beloved Lake Crabtree Park Trails, Tired of Attracting the Wrong Relationships?


In this Cary Spotlight Issue…
💭 Spotlight Hook Trivia
😀 Meme of the Day
🧭 Hello, Rio! A Five-Day Adventure Awaits in Brazil
✈️ RDU’s Development Plans Threaten Beloved Lake Crabtree Park Trails
🧭 Are You Tired of Attracting the Wrong Relationships?
❤️ You’re So Sweet: Thank You, Faith!
🏛️ Support Local Businesses
Question: What was the first megamall in Cary that was developed to attract regional customers?
(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)
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Credit: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Hello, Rio! A Five-Day Adventure Awaits in Brazil
Welcome to the Marvelous City, where vibrant beaches, lush mountains, and samba rhythms create a symphony of life. Over the next five days, you’ll immerse yourself in the magic of Rio de Janeiro—from gazing up at the awe-inspiring Christ the Redeemer to soaking up the sun on the world-famous Ipanema Beach.
Whether you’re a first-timer ready to explore iconic landmarks or a seasoned traveler looking for hidden corners of Carioca charm, this itinerary is your passport to experiencing Rio like a true local. Pack your spirit of adventure (and plenty of sunscreen)—this is going to be a trip you’ll never forget!
To complement your 5-day Rio itinerary, here's a video that tells you what to know before you go:
Video source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQEgU6y6P6A
Here's a detailed 5-day itinerary for Rio de Janeiro, Brazil:
Day 1: Explore the City Center and Santa Teresa
Morning: Begin your journey in Rio's historic downtown area. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of São Sebastião, known for its unique modernist architecture.
Midday: Walk to the famous Selarón Steps (Escadaria Selarón), a vibrant staircase adorned with colorful tiles from around the world. Climb the steps to reach the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa.
Afternoon: In Santa Teresa, wander through its charming streets, admire the street art, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Consider visiting local art studios and boutiques.
Day 2: Beaches and Lagoons
Morning: Head to Ipanema Beach, one of Rio's most iconic shores. Even if the weather isn't ideal, it's a great place to observe locals engaging in various sports and activities.
Afternoon: From Ipanema, make your way to the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon. Take a leisurely walk or rent a bike to circle the lagoon, enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and the distant Christ the Redeemer statue.
Day 3: Relaxation at Copacabana Beach
Morning: Dedicate this day to unwinding at Copacabana Beach. Rent a lounge chair and umbrella, and don't forget to try fresh coconut water from a beach vendor.
Afternoon: Take a dip in the ocean, but be cautious of strong waves. It's advisable to keep an eye on your belongings or ask a nearby beachgoer to watch them while you swim.
Evening: Explore the numerous beachside bars and kiosks. Many offer live music, but be aware that some may include an "artistic tax" on your bill for the entertainment.
Day 4: Hiking to Morro da Urca (Sugarloaf Mountain)
Morning: Set out for a hike to Morro da Urca, the smaller peak adjacent to Sugarloaf Mountain. The trail starts near Praia Vermelha and is well-marked. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife, including sea turtles in the nearby waters.
Afternoon: Upon reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of Rio. You can descend via the same trail or opt for a cable car ride down.
Day 5: Visit to Christ the Redeemer
Morning: Begin your day at Parque Lage, a public park featuring beautiful gardens and a historic mansion. From here, embark on the hiking trail leading up to the Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain. The hike is moderately challenging and takes you through lush forested areas.
Afternoon: After visiting the statue and soaking in the panoramic views, descend and reward yourself with a visit to a nearby beach, such as Ipanema, for a relaxing afternoon.
This itinerary offers a balanced mix of cultural exploration, relaxation, and adventure, allowing you to experience the diverse attractions that Rio de Janeiro has to offer.
Learn about more family trips built for adventurers of all ages.
G Adventures is the leader in small group and solo travel for 30 years, they know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides. Check out the Online Deals: The Whole World is on sale! Shop Travel Deals
What’s Your Favorite Thing to Try in Rio de Janeiro?Click to cast your vote for your top activity |
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Travel Guides - Here are two comprehensive travel guides to help you plan your trip to Rio:
Lonely Planet: Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide
Lonely Planet offers an extensive guide to Rio de Janeiro, covering top attractions, local experiences, and practical travel tips. Their guide includes information on the city's vibrant neighborhoods, cultural landmarks, and natural wonders. Additionally, they provide insights into day trips around the state of Rio de Janeiro, highlighting wilderness-backed beaches and ancient sites.
Travel + Leisure: Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide
Travel + Leisure provides a detailed guide to Rio de Janeiro, highlighting the city's bustling beachfronts, cultural attractions, and year-round activities. Their guide covers a range of topics, including where to stay, eat, and explore, ensuring travelers have a well-rounded experience in Rio.
RDU’s Development Plans Threaten Beloved Lake Crabtree Park Trails
Lake Crabtree County Park, a beloved outdoor destination in Wake County, is at the center of a contentious development plan by Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). Federal regulations now require RDU to charge fair market value for the land it leases, making the long-standing $1 per year agreement with Wake County untenable.
RDU’s proposal would impact 136 acres, including nearly all of the park’s bike trails and a portion of its lakefront. The development could include restaurants, bars, or a hotel, with RDU aiming to create a destination that aligns with the natural surroundings. However, community groups such as the Triangle Off-Road Cyclists (TORC) argue the park’s trails are irreplaceable assets, cultivated over decades with community investment.
While Wake County plans to expand bike trail options on the 286 Property, residents and advocates are rallying to preserve the park’s unique character. With public meetings and advocacy campaigns underway, the debate highlights the growing challenge of balancing urban development with environmental preservation. Read Full Report
Just curious…
How important is it to you to preserve the existing trails and natural spaces at Lake Crabtree County Park?Click to cast your vote and see live results |


Credit: Robin B. - Life Coach (Peace in the Peaks)
Are You Tired of Attracting the Wrong Relationships?
From the Desk of Robin Browning, Life Coach (Peace in the Peaks):
If you're wondering why your relationships keep following the same painful patterns, it’s time to uncover the secret: your attachment style.
In my February 4-Week Group Coaching Program, we’ll explore:
What attachment styles are and how they shape your relationships
The hidden patterns behind the relationships you attract
Tools to break free and create healthier connections
Real change starts with understanding. Join us and take the first step toward building the relationships you truly deserve!
📅 When: February 4, 2025
📍 Where: Online - join from the comfort of your home
Spots are limited! Claim your seat today and transform your relationships forever.
DM me for details! Or use the contact form at www.peaceinthepeaks.com
Let’s rewrite your love story this year! 💕

We'd love to hear from you! Let us know how aware you are of Robin Browning's transformative coaching programs that explore attachment styles for healthier relationships:
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You’re So Sweet: Thank You, Faith!
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The Answer to the Cary Spotlight Hook Trivia Question 👇👇👇
Crossroads was Cary’s first shopping center designed with regional customers in mind. It opened in 1991. News of Cary’s impending “megamall” set of waves of speculation about the fate of retailers all over the Triangle. Of special interest was the Crossroads’ likely impact on Cary Village Mall, located only a mile away.
Hill Road. (Source: Around About Cary, p143)
For more historical insights into Cary's development visit these resources:
Friends' newsletters with great Cary history articles
Blog posts with a wide variety of Cary history https://friendsofpagewalker.wildapricot.org/Cary-Me-Back
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