The Girls OF Ipanema

am an Olympics fan–one of those creepy people who watch every Games. Maybe it’s the result of my fantabulous experience in Beijing’s fantastic-yet-sterile games last Summer, or perhaps a childhood obsession with Japan sparked by Nagano, or the result of having been conceived after the 1984 Los Angeles games. In any case, if you’re thinking what I’m thinking, Rio is going to be the. best. ever. forever. of. all. time.

Why? It’s a city with not only mountains, beaches, and a vibrant, individual spirit (think the rousing Carnival)–it’s a city oh-so-harshly stereotyped for producing the world’s most beautiful people. So forget your crush on some athlete. It’s going to be upstaged by that pretty lady leaning forward from the first row.

It’s Today’s Candy!

Women sunbathing on Ipanema beach, in Rio De Janeiro. Soon to be joined by Angela Merkel, Michelle Obama. Photo Credit: Getty Images

Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen prances for Victoria's Secret in an almost-racist Carnival costume. Photo Credit: Getty Images

Brazilian actress Debora Nascimento starred in The Hulk, where she wore clothes. Here she doesn't. Photo Credit: Getty Images

Adriana Lima, model of the moment, Brazilian forever. Photo Credit: Getty Images

Carnivale Girl and Radio Host Adriana Bonbom. Photo Credit: Getty Images

Adriana Bombom gussied-up. Photo Credit: Getty Images

A regular non-model Brazilian is hot enough to be a model in any other country. Photo Credit: Getty Images

Supermodel Raica Oliveira, wearing girly undies. Photo Credit: Getty Images

The essence of the '80s. Photo Credit: Getty Images