Hot sandy beaches, mountains bursting out of the sea, tropical foliage, urban lagoons, and breathtaking views make Rio de Janeiro one of the most gorgeous cities in the world, but its true beauty lies with its people. Almost 90% of Brazilians claim mixed heritage, from when Portuguese and other Europeans, Africans and Arabs came to South America and intermingled with the locals. Today Rio has 11 million residents, about the size of Beijing, and a thriving gay community with a hot gay bar and sex scene.