RIO DE JANEIROLonely Planet
The Best Time to Visit Rio de Janeiro
A seasonal guide to Brazil's most iconic city — from Carnival energy to quieter beach months along the Zona Sul.
Travel Journalist & Photographer
Marisa Megan Paska
Stories of travel, culture, conservation, and the people who shape our world.
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Adventure Journalist & Photographer
Hey! I'm Marisa.
I'm a Brazilian-American journalist, photographer, and storyteller based in Rio de Janeiro. With nearly two decades of experience in the tourism sector, I write about travel, culture, technology, and wellbeing for outlets like Lonely Planet, The New York Times Magazine, and World Nomads.
As a Lonely Planet author, I've penned guidebooks across the Americas, Europe, and Asia — with a deep focus on Rio de Janeiro. I actively advocate for cultural and environmental preservation, women in sports, and using tourism as a force for conservation.
Explore My Work
Writing, Photography & Brand Storytelling
Writing
Travel guides, feature articles, and cultural reporting for Lonely Planet, World Nomads, and editorial outlets worldwide.
Photography
Documentary travel photography — from 35mm street scenes in Morocco to conservation stories across Brazil and Latin America.
Brand Storytelling
I blend journalism and marketing communications to create compelling content for travel brands, tourism boards, and conservation organizations.
Work Published In
LONELY PLANETTHE NEW YORK TIMES MAGAZINEWORLD NOMADSO GLOBOUNDARKCANADIAN TRAVELLERSURF SIMPLYTHRIVE GLOBAL
My “Why”
I love globe-trotting as much as the next person
But this travel writing career isn't about pursuing my own bucket list. As a journalist, I have a platform — and the words and photos I share can inspire real people to travel more thoughtfully, support local communities, and protect the places they love.
I want my work to help readers fall in love with our planet, inspire enriching travels that equitably benefit communities, and spark awe for this one precious life.
Featured Articles
Recent Work
CULTURAL PRESERVATIONThe New York Times Magazine
Storytelling: As Told By
A narrative feature exploring how personal stories preserve culture across generations and continents.
WOMEN IN SPORTSAljezur Femmes
Building Community Through Surf & Skate
Founding a women's surf and skateboard association in Southwest Portugal to champion access, community, and joy in the water.
Work With Me
Need a Travel, Culture, or Conservation Writer or Photographer?
Adventurous storytelling and photography for travel publications, tourism boards, brands, and nonprofit organizations.