Rio de Janeiro is back in the international spotlight after winning the title of ‘Best Beach Destinationʼ in South America, along with the sports tourism top award at the World Travel Awards, a leading global tourism event. Celebrating these achievements, the city is already preparing for a busy summer season, with expectations of a large influx of visitors.

This issue also highlights the new direction of Galeão Airport, as Aena takes over the concession, and the expansion of ‘Rio Film Friendlyʼ, a strategy to bring the audiovisual sector closer to Rioʼs tourism industry.

We spoke with ABAV-RJ President Marcelo Siciliano about ‘Rio Trade Passʼ, an initiative that brings companies from different sectors into a benefits club for members of Visit Rio and ABAV-RJ.

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Rio de Janeiro won in both categories at the 2026 World Travel Awards, marking the cityʼs tenth victory in the sports tourism category. The awards also recognized three Visit Rio members: Fasano Rio de Janeiro, Belmond Copacabana Palace and Passion Collection.

In an interview, Marcelo Siciliano, president of ABAV-RJ (Brazilian Travel Agency Association, Rio de Janeiro), explains how Rio Trade Pass will connect multi-sectoral companies, boost business, and strengthen business relationships. The network already unites participants from gastronomy, culture, hospitality, education, entertainment, and services industries.

A busy summer season is projected by the cityʼs bus terminal, Pier Mauá, and Galeão Airport, with expectations of more than 3 million bus passengers, around 280,000 cruise passengers, and expanded air connectivity.

The Spanish operator already manages 18 airports in Brazil and 46 in Spain, and is taking over Rioʼs international terminal management until 2039. Aena has announced plans to expand air connectivity and attract new business.

Under the RioFilme initiative, in cooperation with Visit Rio, twelve new members have been certified, including Foundation associates. The initiative aims to facilitate film shoots and boost audiovisual production business in the city.

Visit Rio represented the destination at the event in Germany, which brought together airlines and airports to opportunities discuss for expanding international routes and connections.

Participation in the trade show in the United States included business meetings and presentations aimed at promoting Rio de Janeiro as an events destination.