The two-night extravaganza began in the Sambodromo, where 72, spectators sat in sweltering heat, with many thousands more milling around outside selling drinks, putting on costumes or simply soaking up the atmosphere. Three of the samba schools taking openly critical stands against the political and corruption crisis that has engulfed Latin America's biggest country over the last four years. Even by Brazil's deteriorating standards, Rio de Janeiro is in particularly deep financial trouble, while crime in many areas is out of control. Two children were among the dead in shootings last week and a policeman was reported Sunday to have been shot dead in a suburb - the 16th officer killed already this year. So although 17, police have been deployed for the carnival, large parts of Rio, like Rocinha or City of God, are virtual no-go zones for both police and tourists. Locals in those areas, dubbed favelas, have to survive in the crossfire of drug gangs and the security forces. To make matters worse for the passionate carnival-going public, Mayor Marcelo Crivella - a bishop in the evangelical mega church founded by his billionaire uncle - has cut subsidies to the annual bash in half.


Share your thoughts and debate the big issues

To mark the epic occasion we've taken a look back at some of the raucous behaviour from last year's celebrations. Rio de Janeiro's most famous street party opens today and a sea of Brazilian babes adorned with sequins, feathers and glitter, are set to samba down the streets of the famous city. The vibrant event draws crowds from around the world and is a huge bucket-list must-do for travel enthusiasts. But what really goes on inside the week-long party? We take a look back at 's celebrations to give you an idea of what to expect. Last year's party was alive with colour and funky samba beats as the carnival got underway at the Sambadrome.
The beat of the drums resonates down the streets of Rio every year for three weeks. Known as one of the greatest parties on the planet, millions of people dance and celebrate to Brazilian music. By definition, it is a carnal holiday with a lack of real authority. Thieves are so common in the crowds that people have taken to buying cheap phones to take out to the street parties in case they get robbed. There is no shame or punishment for peeing in the streets — for men or women. Flowerbeds and plants that are nurtured all year long are stepped on and destroyed. Historical monuments have to be protected by fences.
Accept yourself, and feel God accepting you, and everything else will follow. His dad and siblings are also doctors, hence his mom is quite use to the idea of being alone and independent. I decided that if the church taught the general principle that couples should be married in the temple and that was not possible for me if I married this girlthen I should see if my choice would be an exception to the rule. I don't remember much of the breakup because it's been overshadowed by what happened to her afterwards. Don't spend money on somebody else' Wife. Mormon girls are the best, and you are pretty lucky. I too married for love but there's no emotional energy, support or empathy left for the darling wife. Never ask vague questions and give her definite options instead.