Tall and tan and young and lovely …………The Girl from Ipanema goes walking …………has been playing in my head from the day I stepped on the distinctive mosaic promenade having walked from Copacabana. Compared to the latter this beach area is quieter and there is less of the disturbance caused by wandering minstrels and beach vendors.

There appears to be a greater abundance of better quality restaurants here and of course the famous Girl from Ipanema restaurant where it is said the musician Jobim and his co writer first penned that famous tune. The welcome we received when we stopped by for a beer was warm and friendly.

As you arrive from the east on Ipanema beach you are met by a statue of Jobim and you get the incredible views of the mountains to the west. Our first visit had the range shrouded slightly in mist with just the peaks emerging….incredible. …….