Describe Rio (Rio de Janeiro)

Hey, I'm currently an expat in Beijing and but would really like to move when my ESL schools expands to Brasil. China has been interesting and educational, but I knew from the beginning it was never going to be my home. I was hoping you could describe daily living, common issues, etc. so I can better make my decision whether I want to hop across the globe again, or just go back home to make my life easier...
I'm looking for a slow pace of life, open minded friends and coworkers, ease of travel, and a sense of community that welcomes me in eventually and won't always label me an outsider. Your thoughts?