1.
AERIAL V World War Two memorial and traffic highways in Rio.
0.06

2.
LV Sugarloaf Mountain from across harbour
0.11

3.
GV & SV's People on beaches (3 shots)
0.27

4.
SVs Christmas decorations in shops (3 shots)
0.35

5.
SVs Shopper buying Christmas presents (10 shots)
1.13

6.
SVs Model church in streets (2 shots)
1.26

7.
SVs Nativity scene and other Christmas decorations in streets. (3 shots)
1.33

8.
SVs Nativity scene. (5 shots)
1.52



Initials BB/1313 OJP/DE/BB/1440



Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: In the Brazilian capital, Rio de Janeiro, domestic and business preparations for Christmas have accelerated with the return of sunshine and hot weather. Up till last week coastal Brazil had been gripped in an unseasonal cold and wet spell. Crowds are now thronging the famous Copacabana and Ipanema beach areas. Throughout the city massive and colourful decorations adorn streets and shop frontages.

SYNOPSIS: Rio de Janeiro, capital of Brazil.

Dominating the harbour skyline...Sugarloaf Mountain.

Until last weekend much of coastal Brazil was gripped in an unseasonal spell of cold and wet weather, however on Monday the usual summer crowds were back on the famous Copacabana and Ipanema beaches with the return of the sun and heat.

The city centre also benefited from the improvement in the weather as the shoppers returned in their thousands. Displays of Christmas merchandise have attracted the expected crowds of shoppers. Stores in Rio de Janeiro appeared to be well stocked with local and imported goods to cater for the last-minute heavy demand for Christmas presents.

In the streets, many different models are prominently displayed. The street and shop-frontage decorations in Rio de Janeiro are noted for their profusion and colour.

The religious significance of Christmas is reflected in the many nativity scenes to be seen throughout the city.