The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast
The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast is where travel, food, and culture meet. Hosted by San Francisco–based travel writer, storyteller, and mom of two teens Shannon Gomes, the show features thoughtful conversations with experts in the food and wine world, avid travelers, creators, tastemakers, and locals who reveal what truly makes a destination memorable—and how to experience it like a local, with food always at the center of the journey.
From unforgettable meals and hidden neighborhoods to meaningful cultural experiences and practical travel insight, each episode is designed to inspire curious travelers—especially Gen X listeners who value depth, connection, and great food—to explore the world more intentionally and to bring a sense of discovery back home.
Shannon is also the writer behind The Gomes Guide (https://thegomesguide.substack.com), a weekly travel-focused Substack filled with stories, recommendations, and inspiration for meaningful travel. Listeners are invited to subscribe for fresh ideas, insider tips, and destination inspiration delivered each week.
Whether you’re planning your next trip or simply dreaming about one, The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast celebrates connection, community, and the joy of experiencing new places through food and travel.
The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast
A Local’s Guide to Rio de Janeiro: Beaches, Food & Hidden Gems with Marissa Gomes
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Dreaming about Rio de Janeiro? This episode will take you there.
I’m joined by seasoned traveler Marissa Gomes, who has visited over 40 countries and spent extensive time in Rio, to share what makes this city so unforgettable, from its iconic beaches to its vibrant culture and energy.
We talk about where to stay (Ipanema is a favorite), how to experience Rio like a local, and why the beach culture here is unlike anywhere else. Think fresh juice stands, beachside kiosks, and days that seamlessly turn into nights.
Marissa also shares her favorite hidden gems, including a lesser-known island escape just outside the city, plus tips on when to visit (hint: shoulder season is your friend).
And of course… we talk food and drinks. From caipirinhas and fresh mango juice to classic Brazilian dishes like feijoada and pão de queijo, this episode will make you hungry.
We also cover safety tips, what tourists often get wrong (yes, Brazilians speak Portuguese, not Spanish), and how to soak up the city’s incredible energy, from samba-filled nights in Lapa to unforgettable moments at Maracanã Stadium.
If Rio is on your list, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips to help you plan your trip.
👉 For more travel inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to my Substack at The Gomes Guide.
📍 Mentioned in This Episode:
- Ipanema & Leblon neighborhoods
- Ilha Grande – a peaceful, car-free island escape
- Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) and Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor)
- Botanical Garden and Parque Lage
- Caipirinhas (try passionfruit!) and fresh tropical juice stands
- Pão de Queijo – Brazilian cheese bread (look for Brazil Bites in the U.S.)