Countdown for Rio Carnival begins

The countdown has begun for the Carnival of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. More than 450 floats, four days of parades in the Sambadrome, and a myriad of parties and celebrations promise to fascinate visitors from across the world. The events are expected to bring in about US$782 million to the city's economy and 1.3 million people are expected to visit Rio for the festivities. teleSUR