Hard Rock Cafe? Really? Really. Ok, so they are a world-wide chain, but they do know how to throw a party. Imagine a bunch of Brazilians, who are already festive, fervent with rock and roll in their veins. Plus, Brazil also has it´s own rock too, so you´ll get a great mix of American, British and Brazilian rock on Saturdays. What´s more, on Fridays, flashback night, you get a lot more singles than anywhere else in Rio, so, you know... you may make a Brazilian connection! (ages 30 to 45) approach index: 5 Get there at: 10pm :: Dress nice.

Shopping Città América - Av. das Américas, 700 - 3º andar - Barra da Tijuca :: Also good on Saturdays

You can spend all night at 00 and not get bored. Rio's creme de la creme hit this flawlessly designed modern lounge, part outdoor (mingling area), part indoor (tables), with cutting edge contemporary cuisine (try the salmon burger) and a tiny dance floor that fits everyone. Try a cigar on the asian chaises outside under the stars. (ages 25 to 35) approach index: 4 Get there at: 11pm :: Dress up.

Av. Padre Leonel Franca 240, Gávea (Planetário) :: Also good on Thurs-Sat

Salgueiro samba school has won a lot of samba championships. At the same time, they are one of the clubs closest to the south side (R$24 cab from Ipanema to Salgueiro) and by far the safest. During their weekly rehearsals on Thuesdays and Saturdays, you won't see a fight, pick pockets or rude behavior, since the event is strictly sponsored by Rio's underground kingpin, who wants everyone to have a good time at his party. Hang out outside in the street party till midnight, then go in. Pricey entrance ($10 to $25), but worth it. (ages 20 to 40) approach index: 3 Get there at: 11 pm :: Dress down.

Quadra do Salgueiro, Tijuca :: Only happening between August and Carnival

Located right behind Lapa, CCC manages to get Rio's best bands to perform every day. You can go in blindly and have a great time. Great food and drinks. ( ages 28 to 50) Approach index: 2 Get there at:10pm :: Dress up

Rua do Teatro, 37 - Praça Tiradentes - Centro :: Also good on Thu & Fri

AKA Feira dos Paraibas, this arena has scores of bars, with live music stages on both ends, playing none other than cheesy arrocha, forro or axé. Extremely "latin" decorations makes this place anthropologically eye-opening. Ages 20 to 50. Approach index: 4 Get there at: 9pm :: Dress casual.

Feira de São Cristóvão :: Also good on Fri

A bar build-in to a hostel, so there is always a young international crowd. Tones of new drinks and specials. Table area on the balcony or upstairs. Great place to meet other travellers. (ages 19 to 30) approach index: 4 Get there at: 9pm :: Dress casual.

Rua Paul Refern 48, Ipanema :: Also good on Thu & Fri