View Full Version : 2008 General Reports
Alex Deuce
05-05-08, 01:31
As one of the individuals that he was talking about; I feel that He is generally correct in his assertions. However, we are thrown off by his audacity to report on the scene.
I will admit, I go to Brazil to get away from the headache. I feel that the MAJORITY of African American women have forgotten what it means to be a wife, lover and friend. It is easier for me to handle my professional business and stay away from the drama. I pick and choose my spots for enjoyment. Brazil is one of those spots just for the fact that the grimiest Groata that you run into still knows how to treat a man or fakes it well. There is a thread on here about "Would you marry a Groata?" I have to say, From what I have scene in the market , you would be better off. At least she would try to stay in her place. you just have to worry about her fucking the neighbor and the paper boy when she gets tired of your ass.
End point; He was a GAY ass for reporting it however!
My Brasilian Visa expires on the 21st of this month. I am headed to Rio in 3 days for a 10 day trip (may 8-18th) WIll I get hassled by immigration when I arrive in Brasil? DO I have to have a certain amount of days left on my Visa in order to travel in and out of Brasil?
Poucolouco
05-06-08, 03:16
My Brasilian Visa expires on the 21st of this month. I am headed to Rio in 3 days for a 10 day trip (may 8-18th) WIll I get hassled by immigration when I arrive in Brasil? DO I have to have a certain amount of days left on my Visa in order to travel in and out of Brasil?You will not be allowed to board the plane if the airline is doing their job.
If you do, you may not be allowed entry into country because they require a visa which is valid for 6 months beyond the date of your entry. Check with your local Brazilian counsel ASAP.
As one of the individuals that he was talking about; I feel that He is generally correct in his assertions. However, we are thrown off by his audacity to report on the scene.
I will admit, I go to Brazil to get away from the headache. I feel that the MAJORITY of African American women have forgotten what it means to be a wife, lover and friend. It is easier for me to handle my professional business and stay away from the drama. I pick and choose my spots for enjoyment. Brazil is one of those spots just for the fact that the grimiest Groata that you run into still knows how to treat a man or fakes it well. There is a thread on here about "Would you marry a Groata?" I have to say, From what I have scene in the market , you would be better off. At least she would try to stay in her place. you just have to worry about her fucking the neighbor and the paper boy when she gets tired of your ass.
End point; He was a GAY ass for reporting it however!He probably is gay, but that has nothing to do with writing the book. He wants to be a hero to African American women and of course to clock some dollars. The only way that I will read this book is, if somebody game me one for free. He will never see a penny from me.
My Brasilian Visa expires on the 21st of this month. I am headed to Rio in 3 days for a 10 day trip (may 8-18th) WIll I get hassled by immigration when I arrive in Brasil? DO I have to have a certain amount of days left on my Visa in order to travel in and out of Brasil?
It is the passport that must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry, not the visa.
Because you are travelling so close to the expiration of your visa, you WILL get hassled by both the airline and Brazil Immigration. Since your return leg is reserved for a date BEFORE the expiration of your visa, you are within the letter of the law and you should be admitted into Brazil, barring any unforeseen circumstances.
That said, you should come up with some reason for this 'last minute' travel. And assure immigration that you have absolutely no plans for extending your trip. Your departure on the 18th needs to be VERY firm.
I also made a last minute trip in 2003 on a visa soon to expire. The Brazil immigration officer examined my documents 5 times, counted the days on a calendar 4 times, and made me promise to leave as scheduled. He let me in.
It is the passport that must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry, not the visa.
Because you are travelling so close to the expiration of your visa, you WILL get hassled by both the airline and Brazil Immigration. Since your return leg is reserved for a date BEFORE the expiration of your visa, you are within the letter of the law and you should be admitted into Brazil, barring any unforeseen circumstances.
That said, you should come up with some reason for this 'last minute' travel. And assure immigration that you have absolutely no plans for extending your trip. Your departure on the 18th needs to be VERY firm.
I also made a last minute trip in 2003 on a visa soon to expire. The Brazil immigration officer examined my documents 5 times, counted the days on a calendar 4 times, and made me promise to leave as scheduled. He let me in.
I just spoke to the Brasilian Embassy and they said I could go to Brasil. They stressed that I had to leave the country BEFORE my visa expired.
Brazil Specialist
05-07-08, 00:22
My Brasilian Visa expires on the 21st of this month. I am headed to Rio in 3 days for a 10 day trip (may 8-18th) WIll I get hassled by immigration when I arrive in Brasil? DO I have to have a certain amount of days left on my Visa in order to travel in and out of Brasil?
Disclaimer: I am fairly certain but I might be wrong .......
Normally the visa expiration date is the last day you may ENTER the country. So there should be no problem. In your case, you even leave before the visa expiration date, so there is twice no problem.
I have been in places when my visa date had expired. The only problem I had, I could not leave the country and go back again, I had to stay inside.
There is a problem about validity of your passport. I think you be need half a year before your passport expiration date
I do not claim to be the definite authority, thus you should confirm this with an expert. Best you call the Brazilian consulate, and write down the name of who gave you the information in case people at the border tell you something else.
Airlines also should know it, because they will have to give you a free ride back if they brought you over with an invalid visa.
Brazil Specialist
05-08-08, 01:06
I just spoke to the Brasilian Embassy and they said I could go to Brasil. They stressed that I had to leave the country BEFORE my visa expired.
This is funny
I had a friend who entered the USA 2 days before his visa expired, and legally stayed for 3 months, way past his visa time.
No problem. They told me the visa validity means when you can enter the country.
Now Brazil has a law about reciprocity. They treat Americans as they treat Brazilians.
Hence it should be the same rule.
I also understand that a 90 day visa means you have 90 days to enter the country, and then still usually have 90 days in the country.
Maybe someone checks out the consulate websites.
But I quickly asked a friend who knows the rules and his first hunch was that your interpretation is right.
Watchman4400
05-08-08, 01:14
It makes no sense that Brazil went from 5 years on tourist visas to 90 days. I know the Brazil economy is one of the fastest growing in the world and the dollar is down. But the last time I checked the US is still a bigger tourist destination than Brazil. Why would Brazil do anything to make it "more" difficult to come to their country.
It makes no sense that Brazil went from 5 years on tourist visas to 90 days.Brazil did not change anything. It is their discrection for the duration of the visa. Each consulate is different. Most will still issue a 5 year tourist visa. When posting questions about a visa, enter more details, like which consulate, what you asked for when you applied and if they gave a reason why you only got a 90 day visa. Typically if they think you are coming for a one time sex tour, they will issue a 90 day (for example you are married and coming down alone to Rio and staying in Copacabana).
Better you make a better story, you have a friend to visit here, are staying in Ipanema, etc.
Poucolouco
05-08-08, 18:32
It makes no sense that Brazil went from 5 years on tourist visas to 90 days. I know the Brazil economy is one of the fastest growing in the world and the dollar is down. But the last time I checked the US is still a bigger tourist destination than Brazil. Why would Brazil do anything to make it "more" difficult to come to their country.I think there is a little confusion here about the visa 90 day reference. A Tourist Visa is generally valid for five years from date of issuance. First entry must occur within 90 days for a stay of up to 90 days (renewable for 90) and a maximum of 180 days per year.
Temporary Visas are issued for specific travel purposes such as students, training, business, press, religious, etc. These have various stay limits in accordance with their purpose. Each Consulate has its own rules for determining the type of visa and its terms of validity. Both the type and the duration of a visa are decided based on the documentation presented by the applicant in support of his/her declared activities in Brazil.
See Consular Services at: http://www.brasilemb.org/
On one of my trips last year, because of an incident at the airport they forgot to stamp my passport and also omitted recording my exit into their computer data base. This has caused me delays on three subsequent entrys and exits from the country. Which goes to show you they do monitor these time limits.
A Tourist Visa is generally valid for five years from date of issuance.
To avoid confusion for European mongers, we get 90 days (usually) visa upon arrival in Brazil. Just like the Brazilians get when going to Europe.
Sui Generis
05-08-08, 22:09
To avoid confusion for European mongers, we get 90 days (usually) visa upon arrival in Brazil. Just like the Brazilians get when going to Europe.
This is the same thing for Canadians, a 90 days visa. This was enforced a couple of years ago as a mens of retaliation against the commercial war between Bombardier and Embraer. When I was living in Brazil, in the early to mid 80's, there was no need of a visa....and Varig had a direct flight from Montreal then.
Poucolouco
05-09-08, 03:12
To avoid confusion for European mongers, we get 90 days (usually) visa upon arrival in Brazil. Just like the Brazilians get when going to Europe.I guess I was not thinking globally. Tourist visa requirements are required for citizens of North America but they have been waived for citizens of Andorra, Argentina, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Macau, Malaysia, Morocco, Monaco, Namibia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, S.M. Order of Malta, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Surinam, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad & Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Uruguay, Vatican, Venezuela.
For stays longer than 90 days, a visa will be required. See your local Brazilian Consulate for specific requirements.
Brasilian Embassies Abroad: http://www.mre.gov.br/ingles/endereco/embaixadas.asp
The Watcher
05-09-08, 04:27
A Tourist Visa is generally valid for five years from date of issuance.
As OffRoad stated earlier, the length of a tourist visa is in the sole discretion of the consulate issuing the visa. Last year, a friend and I had our visas renewed. We used a visa agency to obtain our visas. Our agent told us that because my friend's visa would be issued out of the Chicago consulate he would probably get a 90 day visa, which is what he received. The agent also said that I would probably get (and I did get) a 5 year visa because my visa would be issued from the Miami consulate. Furthermore, I had two friends apply for visas from the Washington, D.C. consulate. One received a 90 day visa and the other received a 5 year visa. In other words, the length of your visa is totally arbitrary.
In the past 7 years, I've received two 5 year visas from the Chicago Consulate. It's all arbitrary.
For stays longer than 90 days, a visa will be required. See your local Brazilian Consulate for specific requirements.
Brasilian Embassies Abroad: http://www.mre.gov.br/ingles/endereco/embaixadas.asp
Not really true. One can extend the stay for another 90 days by going to Policia Federal. All you need is passport and the return ticket.
This works with europeans, I don't know how it is with americans.
I guess for the sake of clairity.. For USA citizens who just want to visit, you need to apply ahead of time for a Brazilian Tourist visa.
You apply with some simple information, and itinerary, birth cert and some other stuff. You can find out exactly what you need from your consulate website. You wait about 10 days in some consulate, pick up your passport with the visa in it.
Then you have 90 days for your first entry to complete the validation of the passport (90 days from the date on the visa). Then when you enter you can stay for 90 days. You have multiple visits after this for a total of 180 days in any 365 day rolling period. You can also extend your 90 day stay for up to 180 days if you go to the PF and get an extension. No more than 180 days without a fine.
To avoid confusion for European mongers, we get 90 days (usually) visa upon arrival in Brazil. Just like the Brazilians get when going to Europe.
As Pocoulouco wrote in his post, there are no visa requirements (ie. they are waived) for the EU nations. Most Europeans can just show up with their EU passport and enter Brazil for 90 days.
I hope that is what you meant, Sperto.
Sunset Strip
05-09-08, 18:23
I just got a new visa and it is good for 5 years multiple entries. I am an American (US) and the visa says nothing about the duration of my stay in Brazil. My last visa said I had 180 max days a year. This new visa just says it is good for 5 years with multiple entries, with no mention of maximum days in Brazil.
Why is that?
TJ
Poucolouco
05-09-08, 19:00
I just got a new visa and it is good for 5 years multiple entries. I am an American (US) and the visa says nothing about the duration of my stay in Brazil. My last visa said I had 180 max days a year. This new visa just says it is good for 5 years with multiple entries, with no mention of maximum days in Brazil.
Why is that?
TJYou would have to ask your Consulate. Perhaps they forgot to stamp it. Usually the Visa is printed in green with your particular information typed in black. Then they rubber stamp it in black, next to the part that says Múltiplas entradas. Sometimes this rubber stamp is at the bottom of the page. There are variations of the language on the stamp. It would say something like "Stay up to 90 days. Renewable for 90 days. Maximum 180 days per year."
Sunset Strip
05-10-08, 18:46
You would have to ask your Consulate. Perhaps they forgot to stamp it. Usually the Visa is printed in green with your particular information typed in black. Then they rubber stamp it in black, next to the part that says Múltiplas entradas. Sometimes this rubber stamp is at the bottom of the page. There are variations of the language on the stamp. It would say something like "Stay up to 90 days. Renewable for 90 days. Maximum 180 days per year."
Thanks for the prompt response. I read your post right after you wrote it but it seems every time I log onto this site somebody walks up on me!
Today is Saturday and I am at the office, which is closed. I logged on, re-read your message and then, boom, here comes some asshole walking right towards me!
Well, anyway, I am looking at my visa right now. Everything is as I said in my post. There is also a stamp on the bottom, too. The stamp says," Consular general and has the official order and progress seal.
But, nowhere does it say anything about how long I have to stay in Brazil. It only says multiple entries.
The visa does say "turista," so technically I know the general regulations apply to me, too. But, for some reason, the visa itself says nothing about maximum stay.
The visa does say first stay within 90 days, however.
TJ
In the upper middle portion, mine states:
"Valid for multiple entries within FIVE YEARS
from date of first entry. bearer cannot engage in gainful activities. Total stay per year: 180 days."
Poucolouco
05-10-08, 21:07
In the upper middle portion, mine states:
"Valid for multiple entries within FIVE YEARS from date of first entry. bearer cannot engage in gainful activities. Total stay per year: 180 days."This goes to show you as Offroad ponted out, "Each consulate is different." Worse yet, each consulate functionary is different.
As Pocoulouco wrote in his post, there are no visa requirements (ie. they are waived) for the EU nations. Most Europeans can just show up with their EU passport and enter Brazil for 90 days.
I hope that is what you meant, Sperto.
Sim senhor, that's what I meant.
Upon arrival europeans get a temporary permission (not visa, sorry) for remaining up to 90 days in Brazil. Which might be extended for up to another 90 days.
Brazil Specialist
05-13-08, 14:08
It makes no sense that Brazil went from 5 years on tourist visas to 90 days. I know the Brazil economy is one of the fastest growing in the world and the dollar is down. But the last time I checked the US is still a bigger tourist destination than Brazil. Why would Brazil do anything to make it "more" difficult to come to their country.
Brazilian immigration law has "reciprocity" built into it.
In other words: Brazil does unto thee as your contry does unto Brazil
or
an eye for an eye .........
That means if your country requires a Visa for Brazilians to enter, then they will require a Visa from you
So if your country starts giving 90 day visas, so will Brazil
Of course it makes no sense, as there are no 3 million US citizens trying to escape poverty in the US working illegally in Brazil
But that is how it is.
And Brazilians don't need visa to enter the European Community. So EC citizens don't need visa to enter the US.
I don't know if you are aware: Brazilians with US visas occasionally get sent back right at the US entry port. And Brazilians get sent back in the next flight in Europe, frequently.
So Spain sent back about 20 Brazilians per day (or week?). Brazil complained, because a few cases that were refused entry were really ridiculous (people changing planes in Spain to visit a scientific conference in Portugal to present their master's thesis)
Of course, some others deserved it: illegal workers returning from vacation in their home land Brazil.
Spain did not react. So Brazil started turning back Spanish citizens at their border, using the same technical reasons ("no proof of sufficient cash for the trip" , for example). Now Spain reacted and negotiated.
Up and Cummer
05-17-08, 07:14
My first trip to Brazil will be in August. I was wondering if any Brazil vets could give me some advice on where to go. I know Rio is great and has it all. I assume most firt timers in brazil go to Rio first. But if you had it to do all over again. Would you go somewhere else first? I prefer places less touristy that the non-pros would be more open to. Also, maybe less crime. I have mongered/travelled in mexico many times by myself. Walked dark streets in cities there in supposedly the murder capitals of MX. Never had any major problems.( ie:Nuevo Laredo). But media makes Rio seem even worse. For those of you that live in Rio. What do you think?
My first trip to Brazil will be in August. I was wondering if any Brazil vets could give me some advice on where to go. I know Rio is great and has it all. I assume most firt timers in brazil go to Rio first. But if you had it to do all over again. Would you go somewhere else first? I prefer places less touristy that the non-pros would be more open to. Also, maybe less crime. I have mongered/travelled in mexico many times by myself. Walked dark streets in cities there in supposedly the murder capitals of MX. Never had any major problems.( ie:Nuevo Laredo). But media makes Rio seem even worse. For those of you that live in Rio. What do you think?
Personally I'd say do Rio. You don't sound like a newbie as far as being sensible in dodgy places goes. Media hype is a pain. If you want to enjoy the less-touristy areas, avoid Copacabana except for a bit of fun (take extra - ie usual - precautions there). You can have a quick swig of it then concentrate more on upmarket/downmarket centro termas according to your fancy. I would forget about scoring with non-pros until you can speak good Porto and know Rio well enough to feel at home. But you can have a good time with non-pros in Lapa and Centro and elsewhere if you do your homework.
Looking For Eden
05-18-08, 05:14
My first trip to Brazil will be in August. I was wondering if any Brazil vets could give me some advice on where to go. I know Rio is great and has it all. I assume most firt timers in brazil go to Rio first. But if you had it to do all over again. Would you go somewhere else first? I prefer places less touristy that the non-pros would be more open to. Also, maybe less crime. I have mongered / travelled in mexico many times by myself. Walked dark streets in cities there in supposedly the murder capitals of MX. Never had any major problems.( ie:Nuevo Laredo). But media makes Rio seem even worse. For those of you that live in Rio. What do you think?Personally I prefer the northeast. Recife, Natal and Fortaleza. In Rio the women are too mercenary for me. I don't speak porto well enough to deal with non pros effectively. Recife is the murder capital of Brazil they say but like you in Mexico I have never had a problem there. The beaches are nice too.
Sui Generis
05-18-08, 05:29
I know Rio is great and has it all. I assume most firt timers in brazil go to Rio first.
This is still true. I agree with the vast majority of mongers on this board that Rio is the best place to practice our hobby for a gringo or an apprentice monger. As the GDP are accostumed to meet foreigners, they have developed a special habit to understand men even if there's a language barrier.For personal reasons, I don't hobby anymore in Rio. I prefer São Paulo because there's more things to do besides hobbying. But I would never advice a newbie to go there.
There's a funny beer commercial that depicts the difference between Rio and São Paulo. Two cariocas meet two beautiful girls in a bar. As it happens, the girls are from São Paulo. The two guys imagine themselves living in São Paulo : pollution, elevators full of people, traffic jam, heavy rain, motoboys...and the worst: no Polar beer.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRAMHY364Is
Good replies to Up and Cummer. I had a choice of a week in Rio or a week in London in July. Believe it or not, I almost chose London after much reading of ISG. Why?
1. Seems like so many Rio girls are hardened professionals. I prefer the GFE (which I'm used to in Dubai).
2. Very long and expensive flights from Dubai (London is 6 hours direct, and cheap)
3. Mongering and hotels not cheap anymore in Rio.
4. Rio crime stories. I can usually look after myself, but a gun in the face is difficult to argue with; as is a couple of corrupt cops shaking you down for cash.
5. That damn "screaming and smashing glass and calling cops" scam that many of the WGs try on, to intimidate guys for more money. (I'll make sure I only have plastic cups and paper plates in the hotel. ;)).
5. London has some great parties (both 'professional' and private parties).
In the end I decided on Rio (I like an adventure, plus I have a work commitment there), but like Up and Cummer, I also researched the idea of getting out of Rio to a less touristy city for some GFE mongering. However, I don't speak Portugese, and I'm not going to learn it for a one-week trip.
Despite all this, I'm sure I'll have a great time in Rio, and I'm counting the days (52 days left ;)).
Prosal - what happened? I read your reply to my post earlier today, and I was going to comment, but now you've deleted your post.
From memory, the gist of your post was: "Rio is #$@%!! , and Rio girls are %$#@!!!"
Sounds like you're jaded about Rio. I think I'll manage to have a good time despite the negatives (which I'm well aware of). Keep in mind my visit will be a first visit there, and it will be a short one (seven days). In other words, short ansd sweet. I'll also have some work commitments, so there won't be a lot of time for working on freebies. I plan to take it easy and go with the flow. If I get the chance, I'll check out a smaller nearby city, and probably SP for a night or two.
I'm sure there are worse places to visit than Rio. ;)
I'm sure there are worse places to visit than Rio. ;)
You're right. That's why I deleted my post.
:)
Carlos Primeros
05-18-08, 23:09
Hi Piper,
good to hear that you are comming to Rio. I followed some of your recommendations in Dubai - Thank you for this.
Actually I can not return this service as Buba, Sperto etc. already gave a very extensive guide to Rio.
Do not be distracted by the "crime-threat". If you act reasonably and keep a low profile, nothing happens.
I agree with you - Dubai - Sao Paolo - with Emirates is a very long journey - but if you fly business or first at least you can sleep on the way.
Have fun!
Carlos
This is still true. I agree with the vast majority of mongers on this board that Rio is the best place to practice our hobby for a gringo or an apprentice monger. As the GDP are accostumed to meet foreigners, they have developed a special habit to understand men even if there's a language barrier.For personal reasons, I don't hobby anymore in Rio. I prefer São Paulo because there's more things to do besides hobbying. But I would never advice a newbie to go there.
There's a funny beer commercial that depicts the difference between Rio and São Paulo. Two cariocas meet two beautiful girls in a bar. As it happens, the girls are from São Paulo. The two guys imagine themselves living in São Paulo : pollution, elevators full of people, traffic jam, heavy rain, motoboys...and the worst: no Polar beer.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRAMHY364Is
ROFL. When a girl tells me she's from SP, I usually treat her differently - as if she's more sophisticated, intelligent etc than a carioca. It might be rubbish of course, but that's how many of them like to think of themselves IMO so I let them.
Up and Cummer
05-19-08, 00:37
Although I am a very street wise/well-versed mongerer. The Biggest obstacle in Rio will be that I don't speak Portuguese. I am fluent in Spanish. My brother will be coming with me and he can't speak neither one and is would never attempt to go to any Latin American country without me.
We are going to be there for 2-3 weeks and in that time hope to see all that Rio has to offer. Under the radar places are my favorites. When I get the exact date we arrive I would like to meet with a Veteran Rio Ex-Pat from this forum to join us. All the Drinks and Taxis on me. We are both early 30's Professionals from Texas.
I plan to be taking lots of curry powder with me to Brasil as I am going to stay there 3 months and can not do without curries made by me, if my bagage is checked does anyone know what might happen.
Thanks for any advice given.
Regards Magic
Poucolouco
05-19-08, 16:05
i plan to be taking lots of curry powder with me to brasil as i am going to stay there 3 months and can not do without curries made by me, if my bagage is checked does anyone know what might happen.
thanks for any advice given.
regards magicthe worst thing that will happen is they might confirep001e it. don't worry about it. every trip i bring my lots of my favorite food products which are not sold in brasil and have never had a problem.
Cool site provided by MPB FM (Rio de janeiro).
Lots of videos of Musica Popular Brasileira videos.
http://www.mpbtube.com.br/
Hi Piper,
good to hear that you are comming to Rio. I followed some of your recommendations in Dubai - Thank you for this.
Actually I can not return this service as Buba, Sperto etc. already gave a very extensive guide to Rio.
Do not be distracted by the "crime-threat". If you act reasonably and keep a low profile, nothing happens.
I agree with you - Dubai - Sao Paolo - with Emirates is a very long journey - but if you fly business or first at least you can sleep on the way.
Have fun!
CarlosGlad you enjoyed Dubai. It's a great place to visit (and a great place to live).
I wish I were flying business class, but my company is paying, and they only pay economy tix. I found a better itinerary with Air France. About 7 hours to Paris, a layover, then 8 hours to Rio. Might stop over in Paris for a night or two to rekindle an old romance. ;)
Glad you enjoyed Dubai. It's a great place to visit (and a great place to live).
I wish I were flying business class, but my company is paying, and they only pay economy tix. I found a better itinerary with Air France. About 7 hours to Paris, a layover, then 8 hours to Rio. Might stop over in Paris for a night or two to rekindle an old romance. ;)
No way you can reach RIO from Paris in 8 hrs. It takes about 11 hrs.
No way you can reach RIO from Paris in 8 hrs. It takes about 11 hrs.You're probably right. I was estimating based on a two-leg trip with a total of around 17 hours flying time plus layover. This is why I hate flying - I always fuck it up. Whatever. As long as I get there. ;)
____
EDIT IN: Just checked: Yes, it's about 11 hours from Paris to Rio/SP, and about 7 hours from Dubai to Paris. I have a booking with Emirates (15.5 hours direct to SP, then an hour to Rio). That's going to be a killer flight.
If you are interested in seeing the latest CD's from you favourite bands, check out this german site:
http://www.brasilmusik.de/index.html
The site is very updated and also covers smaller bands which might not be so famous. I wouldn't order anything from this size as I buy all my CD's in Brazil. Brazilian music is a passion of mine (everything except samba) and I spend much more money on CD's than GPs. Anyway, the site is very good for finding new CDs and to check out what you miss in your collection.
Curry powder will not be a problem. They won't even know it is there unless you get your bags turned inside out, which doesn't happen unless they suspect you of carrying uranium products. Anyway, it is not a problem to bring spices etc. Only meats and fresh produce is prohibited. I bring a ton of spices for my own cooking, a lot of stuff just is not available in Brazil. Shopping in Brazil is like shopping in the dark ages of a western country. I also bring in body building products (for personal use) etc without a problem.
I had my bags stopped once, in about 30 trips. They were cool until they saw my passport and how many stamps I had. They thought I must have been up to something. When they searched my bag they really only skimmed over the obvious stuff and asked for a couple of receipts, some receipts I had some I didn't. A lot of stuff which was discretely tucked away in dirty clothes, in pant pockets etc, was never seen. I always push my limit of US $500 of stuff to bing in, hence hide a heap of stuff inside my bag and clothes. As long as it is not big electronics you can get away with a lot.
Airports are interested in only large quantities of stuff that appears to be of commercial value. IE Electronics or a shit load of easily sell able, high value stuff like cosmetics, pend drives, memory chips etc.
Another reminder. They screen your carry on bag on arrival through an Xray machine as you LEAVE THE PLANE now in Rio. That is as you land in Rio, leaving the plane before you go through the passport stampers. They are looking for fresh food stuff (this is a joke) and electronics (they are really looking for this). If you have a lot of stamps and have a brand new computer, you will get stopped. I had this happend with a brand new laptop. They were a pain in the ass, I eventually turned it on and showed them all my files and business stuff, pictures etc and they still weren't convinced because I had so many stamps in it. They thought I was going to sell it. I just sticked to my guns and pointed to the immigration form wish quite clearly states foreigners can bring in goods of up to $3000 for personal use that is going to be taken back out of the country. They let me go, but they were not overly happen.
Just another example of dumb planning by Brazilians IE Great way to improve Tourism - Hassle foreigners at the airport that have new, common in the western world, electronics. IE people that will spend $5000 -$10000 per trip. Just Dumb.
Brazilian music is a passion of mine
I share this passion. What about some posts about it ? :)
We could start about the Musica Popular Brasileira that we're listening. Not necessarily new music but just stuff we like, we've discovered or rediscovered. Forro, Sertaneja, Pagode, Samba, Chorro, Funk, Rap, Rock, Bossa Nova, Axe, ect ...
Let me start with my all-time favorite, Marisa Monte. Her songs are for me the quintessence of the carioca soul. :)
Marisa Monte - O que me importa (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gCTP_cwqRA&mode=related&search=)
Os Tribalistas ( Marisa Monte, Arnaldo Antunes and Carlinhos Brown) - Velha Infancia (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJYZl1Ewoxk&mode=related&search=)
Marisa Monte - Bem Que Se Quis (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhDmxT89nGY)
Marisa Monte - O Bonde do Dom (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxPlhYMmU7E&mode=related&search=)
Marisa Monte - Preciso me encontrar (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbKfUwxsMZg)
Os tribalistas - Ja sei namorar (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OPVl6kiN8I&mode=related&search=)
Marisa Monte - Gentileza (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VKnVAZHehV0&mode=related&search=)
I've always loved her.
:)
Legiao Urbana is a legendary rock band in Brasil. Its lead singer, Renato Russo - Jim Morrison's brasilian version - died in 96.
Legiao Urbana - Faroeste Caboclo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2h97Ztwn9Fw&mode=related&search=) (a song that most brasilians place at the very PANTHEON of brasilian music)
Legiao Urbana - Pais e Filhos (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjQ2k1hU5aQ&mode=related&search=)
Legiao Urbana - Hoje a noite nao tem Luar (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OyixbMjxF8E) (acustico)
Legiao Urbana has blew up, yet two of the original members now play in another VERY popular rock band, Capital Inicial. Their greatest hit has been "Natasha".
Eu Nunca disse adeus - Capital Inicial (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Luv-w_zQ01w)
Titas was simply with Legiao Urbana the greatest rock band in Brasil.
For the history, its leader, Paulo Miklos, was the main character of the movie "O Invasor" ( http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showpost.php?p=682756&postcount=1627 )
Eu preciso saber viver (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s167CtQfplA) (of course !!)
Titas - Os cegos do castelo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-4cQAjhjBU&mode=related&search=) (acustico)
And no talk about brasilian rock is complete without mentionning Cassia Eller.
Cassia Eller - No Recreio (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXhfBJFKWaY)
She died in 2001 from drugs and alcohols abuses. As for Renato Russo, her popularity after her untimely death has continued to grow, and as Renato Russo, she is still an idol in Brasil.
Carlinhos Brown. Bahiana music, yet good and progressive. He's also an idol in Brasil.
Maria Caipirinha - Carlinhos Brown (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94D1S4It5mw&mode=related&search=)
It's one of my favorite song for dancing in a brasilian party. I can't resist to Maria Caipirinha.
:cool:
Pagode romantico is a style appreciated essentially by the lower classes. I personnaly like it much better than Axe.
Raça Negra, a band from Sao Paulo's periferias, are IMO the most representative of this musical style.
Raça Negra - Maravilha (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMLhk3Yp-18)
:cool:
Martinho da Vila is for me the greatest samba singer. Simply the G R E A T E S T. There's unfortunatly very few videos of Martinho on youtube.
His latest album, Connexoes, is a bomb of old school Samba.
Martinho da Vila - Femmes/Mulheres (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8xTTCFrAlg)
By the way, Martinho owns a small bar in Rio, in Vila Isabel (a neighborhood of Zona Norte), named "Botequim do Martinho", where he very often plays with his sambistas friends. A very cool place. You won't find the usual Copa gringo punter there. lol
:) :cool:
Sertaneja (country music originally from the rural "sertões") is highly popular in Sao Paulo state, Minas Gerais, Goias, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul and Parana.
It constitutes each year more than 40% of ALL the CDs sold in Brasil. Go figure.
Rio Negro e Solimoes - Bate o pe (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vp0nQVnU0eA)
There's dozens of famous "modern" forro bands, like Banda Magnificos, Banda Calypso, ect, yet Falamansa is definitely the most trendy.
Even in Europe, you can hardly spend an evening in a brasilian party without hearing at least two or three times this song :
Falamansa - Xote da Alegria (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHsLfsDgfLM)
:cool:
THE Minas rock band. They made numerous hits, yet I especially like those songs.
Te Ver - Skank (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhKgcP3Uhrk)
Respota - Skank (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TDx_y4tQ1w&mode=related&search=)
Their cover of Gilberto Gil 's famous hit "Vamos fugir" is quite good also.
Vamos Fugir - Skank (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiJvlXT2AUg)
Was someone in Brasil in late 03/early 04 ?
You couldn't turn on a radio, go in a bar or dance in a club without hearing this STUPID and truly INSUFFERABLE song.
I kind of like it though. :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54VCkUbMbXo
THAT'S great progressive MPB, typically carioca.
http://www.mpbtube.com.br/content.asp?video=fjz4SvHsPZvhF8FYaUmaP0Q7nKkiJo6B5ObYpyC6nMCcERVXey
Reminds me the Noites Cariocas in Urca.
:cool:
Sorry guys I have too much time on my hands tonight, and I've been a bit too strong on home-made kiwi caipirinhas.
Cachaça and saudade make a bad mix. Pleeeeeez don't flame me. I love brasilian music.
Anyway ... a bit of cultural/musical knowledge is not useless for chasing skirts in Brasil. I could even say that it's essential, if you want to nail something else than *****s.
Sui Generis
05-22-08, 19:56
I'm a real fan of Brazilian music. Here's a very short list of my favorite picks
Gabriel o pensador: Racismo é burrice (Racism is Stupid)
http://fr.youtube.com/watch?v=MDaB8muAANc
Tim Maia: Me dê motivo
http://fr.youtube.com/watch?v=avEIJOYUMGc
Pitty: Déjà Vu
http://fr.youtube.com/watch?v=2C_D50H3jTs
Oscar Castro Neves/Roberto Menescal
http://fr.youtube.com/watch?v=HOPtQmupwi8
Ana Carolina: É isso aí
http://fr.youtube.com/watch?v=3kgd5WHyC0Q
Victor Assis Brasil: Arroio
http://fr.youtube.com/watch?v=Fsx5kVPQf10
Racionais Mc: Diario de um detento:
http://fr.youtube.com/watch?v=oGP9bgKoH40
Nene Trio
http://fr.youtube.com/watch?v=qEacjyExThE
List of my favourite picks.
Akundum, Ana Carolina, Ara Ketu, Asa de Aguia, Aviões do Forró, Babado Novo, Banda Calypso, Banda da Loirinha, Banda Eva, Banda Garota Safada, Bonde do Forró, Braga Boys, Bruno & Marrone, Calcinha Preta, Capital Inicial, Carlinhos Brown, Caviar com Rapadura, Cássia Eller, Charlie Brown Jr, Cheiro de Amor, Chiclete Com Banana, Chitãozinho & Xororó, Cidade Negra, Claudinho & Buchecha, Companhia do Calypso, Daniela Mercury, Detonautas Roque Clube, Djavan, DJ Maluco, É o Tchan, Falamansa, Fernanda Abreu, Forró Saborear, Frank Aguiar, Gilberto Gil, Harmonia do Samba, Ivete Sangalo, Jammil e Uma Noites, Jorge Ben Jor, Jota Quest, Kid Abelha, Kelley Key, Lairton, Latitude 10, Legião Urbana, Limão com Mel, Los Hermanos, LS Jack, Luiza Possi, Marcelo D2, Marcelo Marrone, Marcia Freire, Margareth Menezes, Marisa Monte, Maskavo, Milton Nascimento, Molejo, Mulheres Perdidas, Natiruts, Nayra e Furacão do Calypso, Netinho, Noda de Caju, Olodum, O Rappa, Pagod'art, Patchanka, Patrulha do Samba, Pépe Moreno, Pimenta Nátiva, P.O. Box, Raimundos, Rapazolla, Rastapé, Ricardo Chaves, Rionegro & Solimões, Rita Lee, Saia Rodada, SD Boyz, Simone Moreno, Skank, Terra Samba, Tihuana, Timbalada, Tonho Matéria, Tribo de Jah, Trio Nordestino, Trio Pé de Serra and Vinny.
THAT'S great progressive MPB, typically carioca.
http://www.mpbtube.com.br/content.asp?video=fjz4SvHsPZvhF8FYaUmaP0Q7nKkiJo6B5ObYpyC6nMCcERVXey
Reminds me the Noites Cariocas in Urca.
:cool:
Does anyone have the link for the Noites Cariocas for info. for events in the near future? Thanks!
Does anyone have the link for the Noites Cariocas for info. for events in the near future? Thanks!
Mangera
Here it is. I've kept it from a Sperto's post.
http://oinoitescariocas.oi.com.br/
Exec Talent
05-22-08, 21:45
You guys with a real understanding of the many aspects of Brazilian culture and music really make this forum worthwhile. Thanks for taking the time to post. Greatly appreciated.
Mangera
Here it is. I've kept it from a Sperto's post.
http://oinoitescariocas.oi.com.br/
I used this link a couple of years ago and was able to see Cidade Negra live in concert as well as a couple of other cool shows. Thanks again to you and Sperto.
El Austriaco
05-23-08, 19:50
Most of my absolutely favorite Brazilian singers/songwriters have been mentioned already (Martinho da Vila, Marisa Monte, Djavan, Ana Maria, for example), but I am sort of surprised nobody has mentioned the following... all of them on the jazzy side of things:
João Bosco:
Simply unbelievable singer/guitarist/songwriter from Minas Gerais, of whom Lee Ritenour (I think it was him) once said that he was the only guitar player he knew that could play guitar and sing countermelodies at the same time. Simply unbeatable in combination with his lyricist, Aldir Blanc (originally a psychiatrist (!) who Bosco met at university where he was studying civil engineering, of all things).
Quando O Amor Acontece: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1Ilg68aYfE&feature=related
Jade: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4WxPkc-SCk
Memória da Pele: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUd4RbsB-XA&feature=related
Papel Maché: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOmVwjNZG-M&feature=related
Adriana Calcanhotto:
A Brazilian singer/guitarist from Porto Alegre with painfully beautiful, melancholical songs. Wonderfully poetic words.
Ela é Carioca: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yY99WF3GpPg&feature=related
Inverno: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUk76T4PrDY&feature=related
Rosa Passos:
A voice so sweet it makes you think she is a young girl (you are in for a surprise). A style that sometimes almost reminds me of Billy Holiday a bit. Sang some of the best versions of all time classics I have ever heard (like Tom Jobim's Aguas de Março, for example):
Eu Sei que Vou te Amar: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_vCFWWufP8w&feature=related
Jardim/Onda: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ydm7UrBc6f8&feature=related
Enjoy, but be careful: don't let the saudade overwhelm you... like me right now :)
Was someone in Brasil in late 03/early 04 ?
You couldn't turn on a radio, go in a bar or dance in a club without hearing this STUPID and truly INSUFFERABLE song.
I kind of like it though. :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54VCkUbMbXoIt was still going strong when I first visited in Nov. 04, never knew the name or artist.
Thanks
Sunset Strip
05-24-08, 18:39
I am not sure if she was mentioned but Virginia Rodrigues should be on any top list of Brazilian singers.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=MR2RK1qwEkE&feature=related
TJ
It was still going strong when I first visited in Nov. 04, never knew the name or artist.
Thanks
I get goose bumps...
So good!
Was someone in Brasil in late 03/early 04 ?
You couldn't turn on a radio, go in a bar or dance in a club without hearing this STUPID and truly INSUFFERABLE song.
I kind of like it though. :)
What are you talking about????? That is a nice song!
A truly stupid and insufferable song was popular in 2002/2003. It was the Brazilian answer to the Colombian 'Macarena' song. I think it was sung by an all-girl band, and it involved the description of 7 or 8 dances steps that the girls enacted as they sang.
You could not walk 10 meters without hearing the song playing in a mall or on a radio, seeing kids dancing the dance steps, or hearing groups of kids singing it acapella, ALL DAY LONG and HALF THE NIGHT. Even TV shows had this group on EVERY NIGHT singing this song as well as huge numbers of wannabees imitating them.
I am very glad that fad is OVER!!!!
Speaking of great brasilian artists, one can also mention the following:
Jorge Aragão: coisinhas do pai,
Fundo do Quintal: O show tem que continuar; Hoje eu vou pagodear, Papo de Samba, Enredo do Meu Samba, etc...
Gilberto Gil: Expresso 222, Vem Morena, Óia Eu Aqui De Novo, Aquele Abraço, O Rio de Janeiro, etc...
Zeca Pagodinho: way too many great songs to list. Almost any song by him is a good one.
Ivete Sangalo: I really like her. She's beautiful, talented and sings so well. Wau too many from her as well to mention.
A truly stupid and insufferable song was popular in 2002/2003. It was the Brazilian answer to the Colombian 'Macarena' song. I think it was sung by an all-girl band, and it involved the description of 7 or 8 dances steps that the girls enacted as they sang.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QKk5gU-CDI
Just listening at this shit I'm vomiting on the keyboard.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QKk5gU-CDI
Just listening at this shit I'm vomiting on the keyboard.
As Meninas, Xibom bombom, was a big hit in Bahia 1999.
Like much other axé music, if you spend a lot of time in Bahia and hear the music all the time you'll finally like it (like a brainwash).
A lot of the axé music is very simple. Singing about love, sex and party.
In 1992 there was this hit "Rala o pinto" by Zé Paulo.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPBRClbXFnY
The text is very dirty. Blowjobs, tit-f**king and sex in various positions.
Like a lot of axé music the interesting part is how the bahianos dance to the music. Dirty without limits.
Another interesting axé hit in Brazil, 1995, was "Na boquinha da garrafa", by Companhia Do Pagode. All over Brazil, in clubs, bars and on the beaches, they had amateur dance contests to this song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnCj-_k7TV0
They danced over a beer bottle. Some girls even managed to lift the bottles with the help of their vaginas. Impressing!
If you want some quality axé music you should listen to the most popular band in Bahia, Chiclete com Banana. The singer Bell Marques has a great voice.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-UeiO2EN-8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znIc5OG_u68
Most axé music you either hate or love. I love axé!
I even like Xibom bombom. :D
Ken_Apples
05-27-08, 16:29
Sperto, thanks for the youtube links, it really brings back some good old memories - on and off the pitch!! ;)
Best regards / Ken
Ken_Apples
05-27-08, 16:47
When I'm on the forum I just might add some personal favorites.
Forro music, - another good music, mosty found north of Salvador and up the country.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7JW0LAXH7E&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6_exuDbn6A&feature=related
and my personal favorite Brazilian music - Pagode! :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qVhheqpUJjU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQE32-smfKE&feature=related
Enjoy the music! / Ken Apples
Ken just presented two songs from one of the greatest forró-bands in Brazil, Aviões do Forró.
Here is their big hit the last year; Quem é o gostosão daqui (actually I think it's Marcelo Marrone who made it originally, but Aviões sings it much better):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjAfVShe8EU
if you spend a lot of time in Bahia and hear the music
I've spent extensive time in Salvador,and that's EXACTLY why I hate this debilitating axe/bahiana shit, as all the afro-Disneyworld pseudo-rasta bahianese so-called "culture".
;)
The music stuff, fascinating as it is, has gone on for a while and is pretty unrelated to the purpose of the board. How about moving it to a separate thread?
btw the music in Brasil in one of the things I love - each type is a different challenge though. For some you have to appreciate the culture. For others the dance. I found pagode bland till I discovered the dance rythmns for it. Bossa Nova boring till I found the upmarket jazz scene for which it is perfect background. I like forro cos I can just about dance it, and samba cos it reminds me of carnaval emotion. I hated that a capella rap when I first came across it but listen to it out of choice now . . .
On my upcoming trip to Brasil, I'm hesitating between a few days in Rio or in Fortaleza. I've been to Rio several times but not yet to Fortaleza. I've heard a lot of praise for Fortaleza, is it really as good as people portray it? I have to admit it, I'm really tempted.
I really enjoy the variety of things and activities available in Rio. I love going on sundays to the Maracana catch a nice football game and other cool things that Rio offers beside just the girls. How does Fortaleza compare in this department? Is there a lot of extra-curicular activities available there as well like for exemple, football games, live music and just general sight seeing and discovering the region?
So all in all, for a nice relaxed weekend on the beach, with a good company and a lot of other extra curicular activities, which would you guys suggest: Fortal or Rio?
Thanks.
So all in all, for a nice relaxed weekend on the beach, with a good company and a lot of other extra curicular activities, which would you guys suggest: Fortal or Rio?
Thanks.Fortaleza has a lot of nice beaches, lots of things to do, dune buggies, jet skis, sitting on the beach, and nice dinners. I look at Fortaleza as a place to take my GF, not a place to find a new one. It is relaxed and more calm than Rio.
I like forta more than rio for the beach and vacation.
Poucolouco
05-28-08, 04:49
on my upcoming trip to brasil, i'm hesitating between a few days in rio or in fortaleza. i've been to rio several times but not yet to fortaleza. i've heard a lot of praise for fortaleza, is it really as good as people portray it? i have to admit it, i'm really tempted.
i really enjoy the variety of things and activities available in rio. i love going on sundays to the maracana catch a nice football game and other cool things that rio offers beside just the girls. how does fortaleza compare in this department? is there a lot of extra-curicular activities available there as well like for exemple, football games, live music and just general sight seeing and discovering the region?
so all in all, for a nice relaxed weekend on the beach, with a good company and a lot of other extra curicular activities, which would you guys suggest: fortal or rio?
thanks.if you have never been to fortaleza, by all means go for it. especially this time of year. it will be much warmer than rio. hotels are very reasonably priced. be prepared for a much smaller city with venues not as easy to locate as you are familiar with in rio. public transportation is not as good as rio and it is a long distance between "downtown" and the new praia area. there is adequate taxi service. study maps to get well-oriented before you go there. if you are into souveniers there is a humongus wholesale market near the rodovaria that is not to be missed. restaurants and food are first-rate. the fish and seafood are fresh. be careful of the street and beach garotas. there are a lot of **** meninas and the policia watch this closely. sorry, my last visit i brought my own so i can't help you with the gdp scene. hopefully someone else will address this aspect.
be careful out there.
On my upcoming trip to Brasil, I'm hesitating between a few days in Rio or in Fortaleza. I've been to Rio several times but not yet to Fortaleza... So all in all, for a nice relaxed weekend on the beach, with a good company and a lot of other extra curicular activities, which would you guys suggest: Fortal or Rio?
You already know Rio so I think you should try Fortaleza.
As Off Road said Fortaleza has lots of beaches, dune buggies and is relaxed and more calm than Rio.
* The city itself is nothing spectacular except for the beaches. There are many options for excursions. Cumbuco, Canoa Quebrada, Jericoacoara and many more places.
* Fortaleza is a very pleasant city for strolling around, nice bars and excellent restaurants.
* You will be quickly familiar with the GP-area in Iracema. Prices are lower than in Rio.
* For non-pro's Fortaleza is outstanding as soon as you leave the GP-area in Iracema. It's a huge city with many options for nightlife. There are no problems finding non-pro GFs.
* I know several members can tell you that the girls look chubby and non-attractive. Sure, there are a minority of chubby girls with round football-heads, no necks and the head glued to the shoulders, but there are also many stunning girls.
* I think the mongers that gets disappointed with Fortaleza are the mongers who wants to picture themself Copacabana as the typical Brazil.
On my upcoming trip to Brasil, I'm hesitating between a few days in Rio or in Fortaleza. I've been to Rio several times but not yet to Fortaleza. I've heard a lot of praise for Fortaleza, is it really as good as people portray it? I have to admit it, I'm really tempted.
I really enjoy the variety of things and activities available in Rio. I love going on sundays to the Maracana catch a nice football game and other cool things that Rio offers beside just the girls. How does Fortaleza compare in this department? Is there a lot of extra-curicular activities available there as well like for exemple, football games, live music and just general sight seeing and discovering the region?
So all in all, for a nice relaxed weekend on the beach, with a good company and a lot of other extra curicular activities, which would you guys suggest: Fortal or Rio?
Thanks.
Sperto is absolutely right. As always I would say.
One thing you must take into consideration is the distance. It is three hours flight time from SAO or RIO and the cost should be about R600 round trip. Only TAM flies from MIA too expensive and two stops and TAP from LISboa.
When I go there I stay much longer than a weekend.
If you finally decide to make the trip don't hesitate to ask more specific questions.
El Greco
South American nations to seek common currency
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-05/27/content_8260847.htm
Expect the south american nations currency to get stronger in the coming years.
Also Asian nations are doing the same thing
Thank you very much guys all for your invaluable feedback!
Yes I am very very tempted to go to Fortaleza. Some more questions:
a) how is safety there? Is it as "intense" as in Rio in the sense that one always must be on their guards in Rio or more relaxed and tranquil in that regard?
b) I've already lined up a non-pro from the internet, but just out of curiosity, what is the current going rate for pros for say TLN and the proverbial GFE?
c) I'd also like to do some dune buggies. How much do they charge for that? And would I be better off inquire about that at my hotel or on my own through agencies in town?
d) Weather-wise, how is June? Is it rainy or sunny?
e) Which bairro would be the best in terms of being close to the action yet not inside the action and be in a nice area to bring non-pros without being suspected of being into the pro-game?
El Greco, for a round trip from GIG-FOR I WISH it were 600R$. On Yahoo Brasil Viagens, it's listed at 1159R$ the cheapest one. :o 600 is just one leg.
Now a question to all the experts in here:
I'm looking at a ticket with American Airlines living from my city to GRU then from GRU to FOR with TAM. On the return flight, it goes from FOR to GIG with TAM then from GIG to my city with AA. My question is this: instead of returning from FOR, can I skip that FOR-GIG leg and take the return flight straight from GIG? Has anyone done that? I got two totally contradictory answers from the same travel agency in 24 hours. One on the phone told me "yes no problem" and when I went today to their office, the girl said "no, it's not possible, if you skip one leg of the flight, it'll automatically cancel the rest of the flight. So what's the scoop gents? I'd really appreciate your feedback on this one.
Thanks.
Now a question to all the experts in here:
I'm looking at a ticket with American Airlines living from my city to GRU then from GRU to FOR with TAM. On the return flight, it goes from FOR to GIG with TAM then from GIG to my city with AA. My question is this: instead of returning from FOR, can I skip that FOR-GIG leg and take the return flight straight from GIG? Has anyone done that? I got two totally contradictory answers from the same travel agency in 24 hours. One on the phone told me "yes no problem" and when I went today to their office, the girl said "no, it's not possible, if you skip one leg of the flight, it'll automatically cancel the rest of the flight. So what's the scoop gents? I'd really appreciate your feedback on this one.
Thanks.
I am not sure what you mean by 'skip a leg'. Do you mean make a multi-stop trip where you visit more than 1 city? If so, then yes you can do that.
I suggest you look into a different route than may shave several hours off your trip. Take AA to Miami. Then take TAM to Fortaleza via Manaus and Belem. This will save you from flying all the way south and them all the way back north again. If yo get good connections it may be worth while.
Poucolouco
05-29-08, 06:06
Thank you very much guys all for your invaluable feedback!
Yes I am very very tempted to go to Fortaleza. Some more questions:
a) how is safety there? Is it as "intense" as in Rio in the sense that one always must be on their guards in Rio or more relaxed and tranquil in that regard?
b) I've already lined up a non-pro from the internet, but just out of curiosity, what is the current going rate for pros for say TLN and the proverbial GFE?
c) I'd also like to do some dune buggies. How much do they charge for that? And would I be better off inquire about that at my hotel or on my own through agencies in town?
d) Weather-wise, how is June? Is it rainy or sunny?
e) Which bairro would be the best in terms of being close to the action yet not inside the action and be in a nice area to bring non-pros without being suspected of being into the pro-game?
El Greco, for a round trip from GIG-FOR I WISH it were 600R$. On Yahoo Brasil Viagens, it's listed at 1159R$ the cheapest one. :o 600 is just one leg.
Now a question to all the experts in here:
I'm looking at a ticket with American Airlines living from my city to GRU then from GRU to FOR with TAM. On the return flight, it goes from FOR to GIG with TAM then from GIG to my city with AA. My question is this: instead of returning from FOR, can I skip that FOR-GIG leg and take the return flight straight from GIG? Has anyone done that? I got two totally contradictory answers from the same travel agency in 24 hours. One on the phone told me "yes no problem" and when I went today to their office, the girl said "no, it's not possible, if you skip one leg of the flight, it'll automatically cancel the rest of the flight. So what's the scoop gents? I'd really appreciate your feedback on this one.
Thanks.a) Fortaleza is Safer than Rio but keep your guard up. It's still Brasil.
b) BTFOM
c) Check dune buggy prices locally, depends on quality of vehicle and location.
d) FOR Weather is arid and warm due to nearness to equator. (Latitude: 3º)
e) Bairro Iracema. Pros no more obvious than non-pro in Fortaleza.
Your air itinerary: Something is not clear here. If you skip the FOR-GIG leg, how do you expect to get to Rio de Janeiro to catch your return home flight direct from GIG???? Also keep in mind that the FOR-GIG flight will most likely be routed through Brasilia, Natal, Salvador or Sao Paulo.
If you are on a TAM FOR-GRU-GIG flight, you should be able to connect with one of the AA return flights from GRU and skip the GRU-GIG leg of the TAM itinerary.
Some more questions:
a) how is safety there? Is it as "intense" as in Rio in the sense that one always must be on their guards in Rio or more relaxed and tranquil in that regard?
b) I've already lined up a non-pro from the internet, but just out of curiosity, what is the current going rate for pros for say TLN and the proverbial GFE?
c) I'd also like to do some dune buggies. How much do they charge for that? And would I be better off inquire about that at my hotel or on my own through agencies in town?
d) Weather-wise, how is June? Is it rainy or sunny?
e) Which bairro would be the best in terms of being close to the action yet not inside the action and be in a nice area to bring non-pros without being suspected of being into the pro-game?
a) Comparatively safe. As long as you stay in Iracema or Beira Mar your only concern should be the street kids. In the GP-crossing, in Iracema, with all the bars there are always a dozen of small bastards who pick-pockets the gringos. Totally shameless. Even though it's next to the police station and they get beaten up quite often they keep returning.
b) With a little bit of bargaining you get a TLN for R$ 80-100.
c) Buggies. Rent one or take a tour. Go down on the avenida in front of Holiday Inn. There you'll find lots of vans offering tours. They take you out to the destination where they will have buggies waiting.
d) I never been there in June, but at least in the summer there can be an awful lot of rain in Fortaleza.
e) Iracema or Beira Mar. I prefer Iracema.
Thank you very much guys all for your invaluable feedback!
Yes I am very very tempted to go to Fortaleza. Some more questions:
a) how is safety there? Is it as "intense" as in Rio in the sense that one always must be on their guards in Rio or more relaxed and tranquil in that regard?
b) I've already lined up a non-pro from the internet, but just out of curiosity, what is the current going rate for pros for say TLN and the proverbial GFE?
c) I'd also like to do some dune buggies. How much do they charge for that? And would I be better off inquire about that at my hotel or on my own through agencies in town?
d) Weather-wise, how is June? Is it rainy or sunny?
e) Which bairro would be the best in terms of being close to the action yet not inside the action and be in a nice area to bring non-pros without being suspected of being into the pro-game?
El Greco, for a round trip from GIG-FOR I WISH it were 600R$. On Yahoo Brasil Viagens, it's listed at 1159R$ the cheapest one. :o 600 is just one leg.
Now a question to all the experts in here:
I'm looking at a ticket with American Airlines living from my city to GRU then from GRU to FOR with TAM. On the return flight, it goes from FOR to GIG with TAM then from GIG to my city with AA. My question is this: instead of returning from FOR, can I skip that FOR-GIG leg and take the return flight straight from GIG? Has anyone done that? I got two totally contradictory answers from the same travel agency in 24 hours. One on the phone told me "yes no problem" and when I went today to their office, the girl said "no, it's not possible, if you skip one leg of the flight, it'll automatically cancel the rest of the flight. So what's the scoop gents? I'd really appreciate your feedback on this one.
Thanks.
You are right about pricing. It was R600 one way for me too last January.Sorry about that.
Now from my experience you don't get a discound if you book return domestic flights in Brasil. Not any more. So you either book leg by leg even with different airlines or try the Brasil pass if this gets you cheaper from SAO to Fortaleza and down to RIO.
The only restriction is you have to conclude your domestic flights within 21 days.
I am only staying there from NOV to FEB. Temperatures 25-31 celcius thanks to a continuous nice breeze from the ocean.
I would say R100-150 for TLN. Last JAN some of them were asking 150 for short time. Too many tourists then.
My choice would be Ave Beira Mar. Try to book an apartment (Flat) in a apart hotel through a local agency. They deal with private owned aparts in all major apart hotels at half price or even less.
All the rest have been answered.
El Greco
a) Fortaleza is Safer than Rio but keep your guard up. It's still Brasil.
b) BTFOMWhat does BTFOM mean?
What does BTFOM mean?
Back The Fuck Off Me?
Poucolouco
05-30-08, 04:13
What does BTFOM mean?Oops! Excuse me for using the acronym. It means, "Beat's the Fuck out of me."
The Watcher
05-30-08, 05:14
What does BTFOM mean?
Beats The Fuck Out of Me?
One of the world’s last uncontacted tribes have been spotted and photographed from the air in Acre, near the Brazil-Peru border.
http://www.funai.gov.br/ultimas/noticias/1_semestre_2008/maio/un2008_012.html
http://www.survival-international.org/news/3340
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_pictures/7426869.stm
Some info needed.
It's a couple of years since I had a brazilian GF visiting back home in Europe. Seems like the rules have changed.
Let say you send a flight-ticket to your GF in Brazil. She travels to Europe. Intention to visit her boyfriend who invited her. No need for visa. She'll get 90 days permit to stay (could be prolonged for 90 days more). So far OK.
What else will she need?
- Is it necessary with a written invitation?
- Money? Her boyfriend will take care of all her costs. She still needs to show that she got money. Is it suffecient if she brings a credit card?
- Plano de saúde, healt plan, is it necessary?
The reason I ask is that the GF of a good friend of mine left Rio and arrived in Paris yesterday. In Paris she was just supposed to do a transfer. Unfortunately the French police stopped her and decided not let her enter Europe. They sent her back to Rio the same day.
The reasons were:
1. Lack of money.
2. Lack of healt plan.
The girl gave the police her boyfriends address, phone number etc. He also faxed the same information to the airport police. The French police, being ignorant f***s, refused to speak with her boyfriend who wanted to assure the police that she was going to stay with him.
I can understand that it looks suspicious if a girl arrives with just pocket-money and maybe no creditcard. They might suspect her for having intention to work in Europe. But still, if she is visiting her boyfriend it shouldn't be necessary.
Plano de saúde/health plan. Necessary?
Anybody got experience to share?
Albert Punter
05-30-08, 13:50
Uhm ... in France too.
I am sure everybody is reading what is happening in Spain to many Brazilian landing there. In Madrid they are now very strict and don't let Brazilians enter so easily.
Apparently now other countries are following same route.
Rules have not changed, are just same as a few years ago. Just controls are more strict.
Don’t forget that not needing a visa doesn’t mean you can automatically enter that country.
It is always advisable Brazilians (and any other nationality not needing visa) entering European Union carry enough money or credit cards, to prove they can survive there. Otherwise, border police may become suspicious, and I cannot blame them.
What I can suggest, is that girl contacts consulate of country involved to get information about requirements to enter that specific country (in theory they should be same for all EU countries). I believe she may apply for visa, even if it is not necessary I think you can still apply for it and get it. Therefore, when landing in EU she is sure to stay.
Some info needed.
It's a couple of years since I had a brazilian GF visiting back home in Europe. Seems like the rules have changed.
Let say you send a flight-ticket to your GF in Brazil. She travels to Europe. Intention to visit her boyfriend who invited her. No need for visa. She'll get 90 days permit to stay (could be prolonged for 90 days more). So far OK.
What else will she need?
- Is it necessary with a written invitation?
- Money? Her boyfriend will take care of all her costs. She still needs to show that she got money. Is it suffecient if she brings a credit card?
- Plano de saúde, healt plan, is it necessary?
The reason I ask is that the GF of a good friend of mine left Rio and arrived in Paris yesterday. In Paris she was just supposed to do a transfer. Unfortunately the French police stopped her and decided not let her enter Europe. They sent her back to Rio the same day.
The reasons were:
1. Lack of money.
2. Lack of healt plan.
The girl gave the police her boyfriends address, phone number etc. He also faxed the same information to the airport police. The French police, being ignorant f***s, refused to speak with her boyfriend who wanted to assure the police that she was going to stay with him.
I can understand that it looks suspicious if a girl arrives with just pocket-money and maybe no creditcard. They might suspect her for having intention to work in Europe. But still, if she is visiting her boyfriend it shouldn't be necessary.
Plano de saúde/health plan. Necessary?
Anybody got experience to share?
What else will she need?
- Is it necessary with a written invitation?
- Money? Her boyfriend will take care of all her costs. She still needs to show that she got money. Is it suffecient if she brings a credit card?
- Plano de saúde, healt plan, is it necessary?Hi!
All I know is that when entering brasilians have to prove, if requested, the means to support themselves and international health insurance. This because Brasil requires these from all travellers coming to Brasil.
Written invitation depends on the country, some countries require one and some don't. If the country of your friend doesn't require invitation letter, one doesn't change a thing.
Try to arrive through AMSTERDAM.
Albert Punter
05-31-08, 03:31
I strongly recommend you amend your post which is against forum rules
No Offensive Posts, Links or Images: Please do not post any messages, images or links that are vulgar, hateful, threatening, racist, or discriminatory.
...
Problem here is FRANCE and those arrogant french bastards who do think that they are so much better than anyone else.
...
Try to book an apartment (Flat) in a apart hotel through a local agency. They deal with private owned aparts in all major apart hotels at half price or even less.
El Greco
I'd like to thank you all guys for your feedback! Very much appreciated.
Would you or anyone in here be able to suggest/recommend some apart hotel as mentioned in your above post?
Speaking of hotels, has anyone stayed at the Hotel Cocal in Meireles? Is it girlfriendly? Generally speaking, are hotels in For GF friendly?
http://www.hoteis.com.br/hotel/007433.html
One more thing: How is the service with American Airlines? Aret they on time and reliable? How are the seats in the economy section: small or not? And is the flight from MIA to GRU usually full?
Thanks a lot again guys!
Hi!
All I know is that when entering brasilians have to prove, if requested, the means to support themselves and international health insurance. This because Brasil requires these from all travellers coming to Brasil.
Written invitation depends on the country, some countries require one and some don't. If the country of your friend doesn't require invitation letter, one doesn't change a thing.
Problem here is FRANCE and those arrogant french bastards who do think that they are so much better than anyone else.
Try to arrive through AMSTERDAM.
Thank you! To sum it up, she would need:
1. Credit card or other means of supporting herself.
2. International health insurance.
3. Written invitation.
It's propably a good idea to arrive through Amsterdam, or maybe Lisboa.
My buddy is already preparing to send her a new ticket.
Thanks for your help.
I could imagine that the brits or germans could be just as tough and strict against the girl as the french. I just thought the french were very ignorant refusing to speak with her boyfriend, and also refusing to speak other language than french.
It happened few months ago, girl arriving in portugal was sent back to Brazil.
Yet, she was only visiting her sister married to a belgian and was a genuine tourist.
So, its not only the french or the spanish, its just the whole of europe going mad.
Thank you! To sum it up, she would need:
1. Credit card or other means of supporting herself.
2. International health insurance.
3. Written invitation.
It's propably a good idea to arrive through Amsterdam, or maybe Lisboa.
My buddy is already preparing to send her a new ticket.
Thanks for your help.
I could imagine that the brits or germans could be just as tough and strict against the girl as the french. I just thought the french were very ignorant refusing to speak with her boyfriend, and also refusing to speak other language than french.
I think your friend should just contact the brazilian embassy to make 100%sure which documents may or may not be required for his girlfriend to enter the European Union.
It is definitely more difficult to enter Europe now for single Brazilian girls than it was a few years ago. I know of a few that have been sent back before even entering the country. Spain is now difficult. France, always has been difficult. The UK has always been very difficult.
A good friend of mine flys his girlfriend in a lot. He nows flys to Rio and picks her up and they fly back together. This seems to be the only problem free way. It is also very important how the girl dress. She needs to be very conservatively dress, no jeans or showing cleavage. If she is lighter skinned it will also help her chances - yes immigration does racially profile people, although they deny it.
I have flown AA a lot of late. Their economy class seats are quite good, comparable to European carries. All in all a good service. One thing of note - the flight crew of all American carriers is a lot more abrupt and borderline rude than any other carriers in the world. Their attitude is really crappy but for me this is less important, the seats are more important. Food is average, but then unless you are in business class on any carrier, this is the norm.
I base this on holding a platinum admirals club membership IE lots and lots of flight with AA over a number of years. For reference purposes I tend to fly more in Europe and Asia and hence have a good base of knowledge to form this opinion of AA.
A good friend of mine flys his girlfriend in a lot. He nows flys to Rio and picks her up and they fly back together. This seems to be the only problem free way. It is also very important how the girl dress. She needs to be very conservatively dress, no jeans or showing cleavage. If she is lighter skinned it will also help her chances - yes immigration does racially profile people, although they deny it.
That's very true. When my friend called me from the airport and explained that she didn't arrive, I called the brazilian embassy to see if they could help. I spoke with a nice fellow. They couldn't help, but he pointed out the importance of how to behave and to dress conservatively.
I think that's what caused the problem for my friend's GF. She's a Help-girl, tall and with an extreme bubble-butt. Being happy going to Europe for the first time she propably dressed up in something nice and sexy. Being absolutely black propably didn't help her.
JohnnyBraz
05-31-08, 15:21
That's very true. When my friend called me from the airport and explained that she didn't arrive, I called the brazilian embassy to see if they could help. I spoke with a nice fellow. They couldn't help, but he pointed out the importance of how to behave and to dress conservatively.I think that's what caused the problem for my friend's GF. She's a Help-girl, tall and with an extreme bubble-butt. Being happy going to Europe for the first time she propably dressed up in something nice and sexy. Being pitch-black propably didn't help her.If you think Europe is harder too enter, then you should see my country. Every South American flight that lands in Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport there are numerous young women and men sent straight back, simply for lack off funds to finance their stay in Australia, Australia is 10 times more strict than any country in Europe to enter.
A lot of Rio girls just can't get it into their heads that the is a time and place to dress sexy and a time in place to be business like. I have a friend in Rio that has a girlfriend that insists on wearing the tightest most revealing clothes everywhere. She just can't get it in her head that she just screams "puta" where ever she goes. We have tried to explain it to her that she causes a problem when in the more affluent conservative places, but she won't have any of it.
Now whenever we go to the more upmarket places she just is not invited. When this is explained to her after the occasion, she gets upset and invariable says "why can't you just except me regardless of the clothes I wear" . She just doesn't get it. The chances of this girl ever being allowed into Europe? Zero!!!
Problem is FRANCE and those arrogant french bastards who do think that they are so much better than anyone else.
Gomer, the real problem is actually the decerebrated, xenophobic and hateful white trash trailer-park peckerwoods like yourself who are a plague for an international forum where worldly people from all nationalities and origins (americans and frenchs included) try to contribute and cohabitate in harmony without any prejudicial cliches against others.
A lot of Rio girls just can't get it into their heads that the is a time and place to dress sexy and a time in place to be business like. I have a friend in Rio that has a girlfriend that insists on wearing the tightest most revealing clothes everywhere. She just can't get it in her head that she just screams "puta" where ever she goes. We have tried to explain it to her that she causes a problem when in the more affluent conservative places, but she won't have any of it.
Now whenever we go to the more upmarket places she just is not invited. When this is explained to her after the occasion, she gets upset and invariable says "why can't you just except me regardless of the clothes I wear" . She just doesn't get it. The chances of this girl ever being allowed into Europe? Zero!!!
I dont think its just a "Rio girls" thing, I think its a YOUNG girl thing. When they are that age, they know they are the best shape physically that they will ever be in and they want to show it off. I can understand how fustrating it can be, to convince her to dress more modestly.
Hello gents,
I'm looking for some recommendations for cheap flights from Germany to Canada (YYZ) for this July. If you can kindly recommend some good websites for that, I'd be very grateful.
Thanks a lot.
I have flown AA a lot of late. Their economy class seats are quite good, comparable to European carries. All in all a good service. One thing of note - the flight crew of all American carriers is a lot more abrupt and borderline rude than any other carriers in the world. Their attitude is really crappy but for me this is less important, the seats are more important. Food is average, but then unless you are in business class on any carrier, this is the norm.
I base this on holding a platinum admirals club membership IE lots and lots of flight with AA over a number of years. For reference purposes I tend to fly more in Europe and Asia and hence have a good base of knowledge to form this opinion of AA.
Thanks Bubba for your feedback on AA. Much appreciated.
I have flown AA a lot of late. Their economy class seats are quite good, comparable to European carries. All in all a good service. One thing of note - the flight crew of all American carriers is a lot more abrupt and borderline rude than any other carriers in the world. Their attitude is really crappy but for me this is less important, the seats are more important. Food is average, but then unless you are in business class on any carrier, this is the norm.
I base this on holding a platinum admirals club membership IE lots and lots of flight with AA over a number of years. For reference purposes I tend to fly more in Europe and Asia and hence have a good base of knowledge to form this opinion of AA.
I have flown on AA quite a bit over the last 5 years, and I have seen a steady decline at all levels with this particular airline. From delays, to poor service on flight(borderline rude), and other bullshit excuses they use with passengers. Yet, I still use their service cause I have a ton of miles with the aadvantage program, and their economy is still decent in comparison to others. I will be heading to Rio next week on Tam. I was able to get a much better deal with Tam this time around. My only concern with Tam is they are the only ones ever to lose my bags on two different trips. Oh well, you can't win them all.
Poucolouco
06-01-08, 00:17
Exclusive news from rural Iowa : rednecks are french-haters: Gomer, (Perkele) the real problem is actually the decerebrated, xenophobic and hateful white trash trailer-park peckerwoods like yourself who are a plague for an international forum where cosmopolitan and worldly people from all nationalities and origins (americans and frenchs included) try to contribute and cohabitate in harmony without any prejudicial cliches against others.Prosal,
I agree with your comments about Mr. Perkelel but please do not dignify him with an association to either Iowans or Rednecks. Mr. Perkele is european but he is living in Brazil. He is too arrogant to retract his offensive posts, but Jackson will clean up Perkele's posts for him if you ask.
I dont think its just a "Rio girls" thing, I think its a YOUNG girl thing. When they are that age, they know they are the best shape physically that they will ever be in and they want to show it off. I can understand how fustrating it can be, to convince her to dress more modestly.
And apparently not just a Brazil thing either. I watched a news report on CNN about the job market for recent college graduates. They said that surveyed employers reported that 26% of job candidates dressed inappropriately for the interview. That meant: too short skirts, too much cleavage, too much make-up, underwear showing, etc. THESE WERE COLLEGE GRADUATES!!!!
Tiradentes
06-01-08, 03:24
I have flown AA a lot of late. Their economy class seats are quite good, comparable to European carries..
The reason why AA has 'better' ecomomy class seats than other airlines is that AA fly to GRU/GIG on Boing 777, while all other airlines fly on 767 (United) or even on a stinky 757 (Delta!). It got nothing to do with AA , but alot to do with 777 being a more comfortable jet than older versions.
Also be very careful with AA:
They only fly on 777 from JFK . All other destinations (including Miami) is on lousy older jets.
I agree with Mangera. The service in AA has declined significantly over the last 5 years. I also noticed the same thing for United Airlines.
For now, I try to avoid US based airlines when I fly. I have flown Lan Airlines and was impressed with them My only complaint is that they don't have direct flight to Sao Paulo/Rio or Buenos Aires. The connection is however not too bad. :-)
I have flown on AA quite a bit over the last 5 years, and I have seen a steady decline at all levels with this particular airline. From delays, to poor service on flight(borderline rude), and other bullshit excuses they use with passengers. Yet, I still use their service cause I have a ton of miles with the aadvantage program, and their economy is still decent in comparison to others. I will be heading to Rio next week on Tam. I was able to get a much better deal with Tam this time around. My only concern with Tam is they are the only ones ever to lose my bags on two different trips. Oh well, you can't win them all.
AA flys some 777s to brazil currently. From GIG or JFK to GRU then on to GIG.
DFW is only 767s.
Some of the 767s have been upgraded to newer seats in coach and business and are very nice. Some still have the older seats.
I was executive platinum for 10 years in a row on AA, now just Platinum since I do not travel very much anymore. After 4 million miles on AA I have flown all classes. I can recomend some seating choices..
On the 767 or 777 in economy, try to get an exit row window seat. The window seats allow you to prop your head against the window and get some better sleep, they are colder though so take a coat. The exit rows have more leg room.. If the configuration of the flight has two exit rows together the first exit row will not recline, so be careful on the selection. Next you can try to get an aisle seat in an exit row. The flights have been quite full lately, but if you are dilligent about looking at your seat assignment you can pick a center aisle seat that has a vacant seat next to it. That will give you some additional space.
Business class on the 767 pick a seat on the left side. Left side center aisle is the best (3D,4D,5D). The bathrooms are on the left side and it is hard to get to them through the galley or jumping over someone. Please do not take these seats if I am on the flight! 4D is my favorite. Business class on the 777 does not matter, take a center aisle. First class on the 777, any seat will do.
The FAs on AA are not so happy in economy, the ones in Business are nicer. I never really have problems with any of them, I am there for the flight, not the outstanding service of a 5 star restaraunt.
To help choose your seat assignment, goto:
www.seatguru.com
Enter the Airline name, then the type of aircraft, (ex. Boeing 767-300) to get a detailed seat map graphic. This is for all Airline companies.
I agree with the comments below. American Airlines has fallen off. In addition they plan to charge additional fees on top raised airline fares. I like TAM Airlines, but the connection sucks. You have to pick your bag up once you arrive in Sao Paulo an check in again. You can miss your connection if its too close.
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CONFIDENTIAL
Director, Bus. Development,Corp. Cards-Latin America
Location: Miami, Florida 34996
Posted on: 9:42 AM, Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Position type: Full time
Job Code: Business Banking
Required education: Bachelor's Degree
Salary: $110,000-130,000
Description
Position Description: Director, Bus. Development,Corp. Cards-Latin America
Company: CONFIDENTIAL
Location: Miami, Florida
The Position:
Our client, the largest and most respected/well known credit card issuers/providers in the USA is seeking a proven Business Development Director to expand their corporate card initiatives/business in Latin America.Based in Miami, this Director will work with Independent Marketing Agents(IMAs) in Latin America to increase corporate card client base and revenue stream. Will manage "key accounts" and provide leadership and marketing direction/strategies to the IMAs to develop new corporate relationships and enhance existing accounts.Will implement key marketing programs aimed at driving market share growth and P&L. Travel between 30-50%. Excellent relocation package. Base salary in the $110-125K area plus 15% bonus target. Very high visibility and growth potential!!
Base salary to $100K plus target bonus of 40%.
The Requirements:
BS, Business, plus 8-12 years proven experience in marketing Corporate Card/Rewards programs in the Latin American market. MUST be bi-lingual! Must have strong understanding of all aspects of the corporate card issuing,acquiring and servicing business.Must have strong knowledge of the card/rewards market and competetive environment. Strong relationship management skills.Must have excellent presentation and closing skills.Must be high energy Professional who can work within a matrix structure.
Apply Now
Exec Talent
06-04-08, 01:27
Director, Bus. Development,Corp. Cards-Latin America
Location: Miami, Florida 34996
Posted on: 9:42 AM, Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Salary: $110,000-130,000
Base salary in the $110-125K area plus 15% bonus target. Very high visibility and growth potential!!
For most members of this forum this would be a serious cut in pay. Curious, why did you post this here?
For most members of this forum this would be a serious cut in pay. Curious, why did you post this here?
Shit! I wish I made 125K with a 15% bonus!! I would be in brazil every single month! LOL
Poucolouco
06-04-08, 03:10
For most members of this forum this would be a serious cut in pay. Curious, why did you post this here?ET, it should be intuitively obvious why he posted here. This could be a perfect match for mongers: Travel 30% - 50%, someone with excellent presentation and closing skills. Fluent with acronyms (IMAs, P&L, BBJ,GFE,CIM.) Wait a minute, “Bi-lingual?” Yup, you’re right. Wrong board.
JohnnyBraz
06-04-08, 06:32
For most members of this forum this would be a serious cut in pay. Curious, why did you post this here?I agree, after tax ect was taken out that would not be enough to cover my yearly traveling costs. It would be a depraved life.
For most members of this forum this would be a serious cut in pay. Curious, why did you post this here?
Do you really think that this would be a pay cut for the majority of the members? Very interesting!
I would say it would be exactly in the middle of what most posters here would earn. Yeah sure there are some who earn a lot less and some that earn a lot more but this salary would be smack bang in the middle. 100k doesn't go a long way these days.
I would say it would be exactly in the middle of what most posters here would earn. Yeah sure there are some who earn a lot less and some that earn a lot more but this salary would be smack bang in the middle. 100k doesn't go a long way these days.
The median annual earnings in the US in 2006 was around $42,000. I think households earnings were in the $60,000 range. For single men, who should be the main demographic on this list, less than 10% earn over $100K annually.
ET was clearly exaggerating.
But this topic reminds of what a former teacher of mine told our class when the topic of third world and marriage came up: Rich men get married. Poor men get prostitutes.
One thing is wrong with your assumption. People that travel frequently, use the internet and are highly computer literate have a significantly higher income than your average jo that has never left his country and would not know where Brazil was on the map, which is not uncommon in the US. The people that do post here have incomes, in general, way above the norm. I mean, most posters here, take at least a few trips oversees a year, try doing that when you earn only $42k a year. I would guarantee you that 50% of people that post here have an income over $100,000
I concur with BB and ET, the amount of travel most of the posters do, requires a higher income in order to support this lifestyle. A job as a director of any larger company would certainly earn more than $200K and have a lot of options.
Their are only a few guys here that would qualify being fluent in english and spanish or portuguese.
One thing is wrong with your assumption. People that travel frequently, use the internet and are highly computer literate have a significantly higher income than your average jo that has never left his country and would not know where Brazil was on the map, which is not uncommon in the US. The people that do post here have incomes, in general, way above the norm. I mean, most posters here, take at least a few trips oversees a year, try doing that when you earn only $42k a year. I would guarantee you that 50% of people that post here have an income over $100,000I earn $47k a year and have made 3 trips to South America in the past year, not including Cuba and the DR. I don't have kids, I'm not married, and I love latinas. Each time I traveled, I met mongers that we EXACTLY like me, and were memebers of the board. I budget well, and spend wisely. To say that 100k is a pay cut for the majority of members here is absurd.
I would guarantee you that 50% of people that post here have an income over $100,000
Well, you could be right, Bubba, but I am skeptical; I think it's more like 10-20% that have an income over 100K. My assumption has been that the preponderance of the posters here are younger guys who earn a decent, but not high, income, or older guys who lead a nomadic or Bohemian lifestyle and who earn decent, but not high, incomes. It is true that simply engaging in international travel does take a certain amount of income; that's why I say most have a "decent" income. But an income in 6 figures? I don't think so. Here's what leads me to this conclusion:
First of all, there's all the nickel and diming that goes on on this board. All the take about prices. All the talk about how much the garotas are asking, the negotiating that has to be done to bring them down, and the need to walk away if she won't come down. A guy who makes real money doesn't worry about shit like that. If you really want the girl--really, really want her--and she won't come down, just pay her what she wants. I know I'll get flamed for saying that, which leads me to my next point, the flaming that does occur when someone is perceived as having paid too much. I know their mantra by heart: "you're overpaying and spoiling it for everyone else." Does somebody who makes real money give a shit what someone else pays?
What else leads me to this conclusion? The place I seem to see mentioned most frequently, at least of late, on the Rio thread, is Villa Mimosa. Now why would anyone in his right mind go to VM unless he was mongering on a shoestring. Yes, I was once young and penniless, so I went to a lot of places like VM--I call them mattress on the floor, cum stains on the wall places--when I was in my 20s, but as I started to be successful in my career and my income increased, my tastes in mongering improved. I could now afford better places and put places like VM behind me. By the way, I would say the same for the cheap termas in Centro and Rio--one step above VM. Why go there if you can afford better? The obvious answer: because you can't. (I'd better put on my asbestos suit; I can see the flames coming already.) In the interests of full disclosure, I will admit that I once went to one of the cheap places at 583 NS out of curiosity, but I'd never go back.
What else? Look at the hotels people talk about on this board. I rarely read about anyone staying at Copacabana Palace or Caesar Park, although I have seen Sheraton and Marriott mentioned a few times. However, most mongers who stay in hotels seem to stay at the medium priced hotels in Copa, and most seem to stay in apartments.
What else? I rarely if ever read about anyone eating at Antiquarius or Satyricon. I have seen Mariu's and Porcao mentioned a few times, but the eating places I've seen mentioned most frequently are the kilo places. I also read posts occasionally about bus routes, the implication being that the author can't afford a taxi.
I want to stress that I'm not denigrating anyone for making the choices that I've mentioned if that's all you can afford. As I said, I was there once too. My sole point is that I think high income mongers are in the minority on this forum. Just my humble opinion.
Lorenzo
JohnnyBraz
06-05-08, 05:31
I earn $47k a year and have made 3 trips to South America in the past year, not including Cuba and the DR. I don't have kids, I'm not married, and I love latinas. Each time I traveled, I met mongers that we EXACTLY like me, and were memebers of the board. I budget well, and spend wisely. To say that 100k is a pay cut for the majority of members here is absurd.Wow. 50, 000 aud, which is similar to the us dollar, would only cover me for 3 trips, each 3 week trip cost's me between 15 and 20 thousand dollars. An airfare alone in high season costs me $3600 aud. And that is one off the cheapest ones with aerolineas argentinas. An average day in Rio. Termas 4x4 $500 reals, 2 women and drinks. Help $200 to $300 reals + drinks $150reals. Then there is women off the beach, also I will have a couple off cheap days in ba85, which I quite enjoy. Food $100reals per day. I generally spend around $1000 reals a day.
Rock Harders
06-05-08, 05:40
mongers-
i tend to agree with lorenzo about "monger incomes", just look at all the whining that goes on by the price police on just about every single forum (at least the 8-10 that i follow). anybody that is willing to pay $r1 per minute to fuck mediocre girls on a [CodeWord109] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord109)-soaked mattress in an out-of-the-way and somewhat dangerous part of a city (villa mimosa) is not making upward of $100k per year. however, making $100k a year does not end up to that much disposable income if you are paying us income taxes, a mortgage, and other bills. i am one of those young guys(25) that participates in the forum, i make maybe $80k usd per year, but i pay no us taxes (foreign earned income exclusion) and no mortgage. as such, i have plenty of disposable income for traveling and mongering to a reasonably high standard. if i am in a place for a week or less, i do not worry about paying top dollar for top level pussy. i always prefer to stay in an apartment (especially in rio, because bringing chicas into hotels is a hassle) because there is no staff oversight and they are always a better value, which leaves me more cash to spend on top restaurants, taxis (i hate public transportation), top bars/nightclubs, and of course top pussy.
however, i do understand guys that are living in a place full time and not earning big time money not wanting to pay top dollar every time they want a piece of ass locally. the flip side is that if you are living in a place, you should be able to master the local language and customs enough to set up your own reasonably priced pieces of ass without using the high priced places designed for tourists.
suerte,
rock harders
Up and Cummer
06-05-08, 06:04
Well, you could be right, Bubba, but I am skeptical; I think it's more like 10-20% that have an income over 100K. My assumption has been that the preponderance of the posters here are younger guys who earn a decent, but not high, income, or older guys who lead a nomadic or Bohemian lifestyle and who earn decent, but not high, incomes. It is true that simply engaging in international travel does take a certain amount of income; that's why I say most have a "decent" income. But an income in 6 figures? I don't think so. Here's what leads me to this conclusion:
First of all, there's all the nickel and diming that goes on on this board. All the take about prices. All the talk about how much the garotas are asking, the negotiating that has to be done to bring them down, and the need to walk away if she won't come down. A guy who makes real money doesn't worry about shit like that. If you really want the girl--really, really want her--and she won't come down, just pay her what she wants. I know I'll get flamed for saying that, which leads me to my next point, the flaming that does occur when someone is perceived as having paid too much. I know their mantra by heart: "you're overpaying and spoiling it for everyone else." Does somebody who makes real money give a shit what someone else pays?
What else leads me to this conclusion? The place I seem to see mentioned most frequently, at least of late, on the Rio thread, is Villa Mimosa. Now why would anyone in his right mind go to VM unless he was mongering on a shoestring. Yes, I was once young and penniless, so I went to a lot of places like VM--I call them mattress on the floor, cum stains on the wall places--when I was in my 20s, but as I started to be successful in my career and my income increased, my tastes in mongering improved. I could now afford better places and put places like VM behind me. By the way, I would say the same for the cheap termas in Centro and Rio--one step above VM. Why go there if you can afford better? The obvious answer: because you can't. (I'd better put on my asbestos suit; I can see the flames coming already.) In the interests of full disclosure, I will admit that I once went to one of the cheap places at 583 NS out of curiosity, but I'd never go back.
What else? Look at the hotels people talk about on this board. I rarely read about anyone staying at Copacabana Palace or Caesar Park, although I have seen Sheraton and Marriott mentioned a few times. However, most mongers who stay in hotels seem to stay at the medium priced hotels in Copa, and most seem to stay in apartments.
What else? I rarely if ever read about anyone eating at Antiquarius or Satyricon. I have seen Mariu's and Porcao mentioned a few times, but the eating places I've seen mentioned most frequently are the kilo places. I also read posts occasionally about bus routes, the implication being that the author can't afford a taxi.
I want to stress that I'm not denigrating anyone for making the choices that I've mentioned if that's all you can afford. As I said, I was there once too. My sole point is that I think high income mongers are in the minority on this forum. Just my humble opinion.
LorenzoFirst off I beg to differ that money or income makes little difference with some of our personalities. Some of us are "obsessed". That obesession is refelected also with by how we make a living. Personally I am addicted to my career. So I am not content with being non-competitive. But no matter how beautiful or "sweet" the girl I have at home waiting on me. I have (shamefuly) been out mongering in the most dangerous of places. I could afford to pay for "high dollar hotties" and not feel a impact short term BUT imho I have not gotten any "Edge" in business by accepting the first "ask". The art of negotiating is in my blood and part of the thrill. Many "Wealthy and handsome" men and not to mention "famous" have gotten caught trolling for $20 "Hookers". Ask yourself "why? ". It wasn't that they were trying to save $200 when they have Millions of dollars or pounds in the bank. It was the "Thrill of finding a gem in a so called coal-mine". Just imho, and that is my personality so I hope no one is offended.
I concur with BB and ET, the amount of travel most of the posters do, requires a higher income in order to support this lifestyle. A job as a director of any larger company would certainly earn more than $200K and have a lot of options.
Their are only a few guys here that would qualify being fluent in english and spanish or portuguese.
I think this is a key point: "most posters". Compare the number of posters to the total membership. Many of whom never post because they have not or can not make the trip. BTW, I am not in the six figure category either and so far I have been making 2 trips a year, each one 2 weeks in length. Not much compared to some of you. :)
Rich men get married. Poor men get prostitutes.
But rich men not only get married. They get families. Big houses, a car or two, expensive hobbies, credit cards etc etc. Then they want what single men have, and worry that GDP are 'expensive'.
Now on that balance, a single man with a modest income and simple tastes can afford trips to Rio. In fact a student, who hasn't learnt expensive tastes, can often do it (the youth hostels are busy, an one year my buddy and I explained tghe low cost of VM). The pussy seems like a once a year or twice a year big expensive treat. But if the single man with a modest income and simple tastes also has simple tastes in pussy, his cash goes a longer way still.
I also concur with Lorenzo. Not to say that there is anything wrong with mongers who frequent VM or centro spots, but if you are making six figures, I don't see why you would travel thousands of miles just to pay peanuts to fuck hookers in a cramped dirty ass room with cum stained/unclean mattresses. I remember a few years ago when the dollar was strong and garotas were not quoting ridicules prices, you couldn't find barely any info on VM or cheap centro casas. Now they seem to be the rage among the main posters on these forums since the dollar have weakened.
It doesn't take 100k + monger to travel to Rio several times a year. Especially if you are single, no kids, decent income and live a modest lifestyle at home. I know plenty of guys who travel to Rio several times a year with that profile.
Exec Talent
06-05-08, 11:39
Even people with money do not like overpaying for commodities. Much of the Rio experience right now is an overpriced commodity. I do not want to unduly alarm anyone, but the economy is much worse and going to get much worse than people imagine. I really feel for those $50,000 a year guys who use cash advances on their credit cards to finance their trips to Rio.
Have anyone heard of place in Nitori call Sofileecia.
I was thinking about Bubba Boy's assessment that majority of the mongers heading to Brasil makes at least $100K a year. My thought is, it may not be $100K but I would say AT LEAST $70K.
Let's look at the expense. A one week trip to Brasil, just to cover airfare, accommodation, food will run at least $2,000. Add in the mongering, you are looking at minimum of $3,000 per trip. Note that this is extremely frugal projection.
Now, let's look at the income side. A single person (no family, no exwife, no child support, no consumer debts, mortgage, college/car loans etc.), making $75K would only net about $42K after taxes/social sec./medicals etc. Further assuming he puts 15% of this moneys into savings/retirement funds, his net disposable income is about $36K. Assuming this gentleman needs $2,000 per month for mortgage/rent, food, clothing, gasolin, insurance, that leaves him a little under $6,000 a year for trips overseas. For $6K, I think you can get at least 1 - 2 trips and if you have low cost options (like staying at your girlfriend's place and hang out at VM), you can make 3 trips.
Of course, my assessment is assuming you don't go into consumer debts (aka Credit) and all cash funded. If you use credits, then you can go as often as you want until the credit facilities freeze out.
Mr Enternational
06-06-08, 19:03
Haven't been on the ff in a while so this might have already been discussed. But while sending my cousin the visa application information I see that the fee for U.S. citizens has increased to $130. It must have just changed because my barber received a five-year visa yesterday which he sent off for at the end of May and paid $100 plus the $10 processing fee.
Poucolouco
06-07-08, 00:13
Haven't been on the ff in a while so this might have already been discussed. But while sending my cousin the visa application information I see that the fee for U.S. citizens has increased to $130. It must have just changed because my barber received a five-year visa yesterday which he sent off for at the end of May and paid $100 plus the $10 processing fee.Both the US and Brazil state they set their fees in reciprocity to each other but you never know who rasies their fees first. Brazil raised their fees to US citizens in February.
http://www.brasilemb.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=179&Itemid=1
i was thinking about bubba boy's assessment that majority of the mongers heading to brasil makes at least $100k a year. my thought is, it may not be $100k but i would say at least $70k.
let's look at the expense. a one week trip to brasil, just to cover airfare, accommodation, food will run at least $2,000. add in the mongering, you are looking at minimum of $3,000 per trip. note that this is extremely frugal projection.
now, let's look at the income side. a single person (no family, no exwife, no child support, no consumer debts, mortgage, college/car loans etc.), making $75k would only net about $42k after taxes/social sec./medicals etc. further assuming he puts 15% of this moneys into savings/retirement funds, his net disposable income is about $36k. assuming this gentleman needs $2,000 per month for mortgage/rent, food, clothing, gasolin, insurance, that leaves him a little under $6,000 a year for trips overseas. for $6k, i think you can get at least 1 - 2 trips and if you have low cost options (like staying at your girlfriend's place and hang out at vm), you can make 3 trips.
of course, my assessment is assuming you don't go into consumer debts (aka credit) and all cash funded. if you use credits, then you can go as often as you want until the credit facilities freeze out.
let's look at the expense. a one week trip to brasil, just to cover airfare, accommodation, food will run at least $2,000. add in the mongering, you are looking at minimum of $3,000 per trip. note that this is extremely frugal projection.
now, let's look at the income side. a single person (no family, no exwife, no child support, no consumer debts, mortgage, college/car loans etc.), making $75k would only net about $42k after taxes/social sec./medicals etc. further assuming he puts 15% of this moneys into savings/retirement funds, his net disposable income is about $36k. assuming this gentleman needs $2,000 per month for mortgage/rent, food, clothing, gasolin, insurance, that leaves him a little under $6,000 a year for trips overseas. for $6k, i think you can get at least 1 - 2 trips and if you have low cost options (like staying at your girlfriend's place and hang out at vm), you can make 3 trips.
of course, my assessment is assuming you don't go into consumer debts (aka credit) and all cash funded. if you use credits, then you can go as often as you want until the credit facilities freeze out.[/quote]
johan, to help you with the math, you are pretty close when estimating airfare and lodging but other expenses are a bit low. see below. this is what i use when calculating the cost of trip. for those that are interested, i have a spreadsheet that list all expenses, activities by day and the cost, calculates the daily mongering cost by gdp (i use $r200 as a standard although i find them cheaper all the time).
1. $1,200+usd at today's fuel prices (you could probably find lower fares through a consolidator)
2. $600-$900 (this depends on your taste) i prefer something with more than four walls
3. $120usd for food (i don't eat a lot but food is cheap)
4. $60usd club entrance (helpee, excluding termas)
5. $90usd sim card plus refills (i purchase a sim before leaving home) you can get it much cheaper in brazil with use f someones chp number
6. $3,000usd cash for booty (i like to have enough cash to whatever i please and not have to worry about running short). about a $1,000 on a credit card for termas action. i never use all of this money, but i like to be comfortable.
7. $120usd for visa
8. $50usd for vitamin c
9. $50usd for foodand drink in the frig
10. $100usd souvenirs (i buy duty free european chocolate to take back to the us along with some nice t-shirts since i love brazil)
11. $50usd for taxi and metro (these days i travel by metro only when going to centro)
grand total of ~$5,700 usd so this would be only one trip. since i have logged over 150,000 miles for work, my flights are free. all i need is booty money, lodging, and all the little stuff which add up quickly. the apartments that i have selected will range from $100 - $180 usd per night (6 nights).
lonzof
Lonzof. Appreciate your thoughts. I have to say your calculations is a lot more accurate and precise than mine. I tend to agree with yours more than mine. However, I intended to "low ball" my initial assessment just to be "aggressive" on my estimate. I have met friends who monger in Brazil who told me they did not pay a dime on airfare (ala airline employee) and did not pay much for lodging while in Brasil (dwell at girlfriend's place). Obviously, this is exception rather than the rules as my guess is, 99% of the travellers do not fit into this profile.
Poucolouco. My guess is, Brasil assess its VISA fees based on Reias not USD$. Due to the dramatic decline of USD$ worldwide, I guess the "increase" in VISA fee is associated with the USD$. Having said that, I am less concerned about the VISA fee than the overall inflation situation both in US and Brasil. At the very least, the payment is once every five years and it is a tiny portion of the entire trip cost.
johan, to help you with the math, you are pretty close when estimating airfare and lodging but other expenses are a bit low. see below. this is what i use when calculating the cost of trip. for those that are interested, i have a spreadsheet that list all expenses, activities by day and the cost, calculates the daily mongering cost by gdp (i use $r200 as a standard although i find them cheaper all the time).
1. $1,200+usd at today's fuel prices (you could probably find lower fares through a consolidator)
2. $600-$900 (this depends on your taste) i prefer something with more than four walls
3. $120usd for food (i don't eat a lot but food is cheap)
4. $60usd club entrance (helpee, excluding termas)
5. $90usd sim card plus refills (i purchase a sim before leaving home) you can get it much cheaper in brazil with use f someones chp number
6. $3,000usd cash for booty (i like to have enough cash to whatever i please and not have to worry about running short). about a $1,000 on a credit card for termas action. i never use all of this money, but i like to be comfortable.
7. $120usd for visa
8. $50usd for vitamin c
9. $50usd for foodand drink in the frig
10. $100usd souvenirs (i buy duty free european chocolate to take back to the us along with some nice t-shirts since i love brazil)
11. $50usd for taxi and metro (these days i travel by metro only when going to centro)
grand total of ~$5,700 usd so this would be only one trip. since i have logged over 150,000 miles for work, my flights are free. all i need is booty money, lodging, and all the little stuff which add up quickly. the apartments that i have selected will range from $100 - $180 usd per night (6 nights).
lonzof
i thought johan (and you) was way off on the airfares. my airfare at new year's was $1,800 on tam. granted that was at a high peak time. but fuel was half the price it is now. i haven't yet checked but i can't imagine any fare to brazil from the us right now being less than $2,000 at off peak times. i can see peak fares of $2,500-$3,000 for holiday season 2008. those of you who have travelled recently, please tell us the fares you paid.
another thing is the continuing freefall of the us dollar. my modest hotel charged $r75 per night. at current exchange rates of around $r1.60 that is close to $50 per night, $700 for 2 weeks. there is higher inflation in brazil than in the us so hotel rates can rise pretty quickly. i saw many rates at much less than 5 star hotels at $r150-250 per night or $100-150, nearing $2,000 for 2 weeks.
i would estimate that just airfare and hotel by themselves would cost $3,500-4,000 for a 2 week stay by an american travelling from the us. add the cost of meals, taxis, and entertainment to suit your taste, and $7,000 is not an out-of-the-ballpark figure.
Airfares are still less than USD$ 1000 when booked in advance. My last tickets was about $750. MIA GIG, about 6 weeks ago.
Poucolouco
06-07-08, 17:58
Airfares are still less than USD$ 1000 when booked in advance. My last tickets was about $750. MIA GIG, about 6 weeks ago.These are prices from Expedia and Kayak for specific departure and return dates. Price quotes directly from airlines are considerably higher.
Brazil Air Fares on 06/04/08
Depart 09/04, Return 12/02
-------Expedia....Kayak
UAL... $2,397…...$1,021
AA…….$1,545…….$1,639
CO…….$1,325…...$1,410
DE ……$1,171…….$1,160
TAM …$2,153…….$2,224
NWA….$2,481…...$1,182
Airfares are still less than USD$ 1000 when booked in advance. My last tickets was about $750. MIA GIG, about 6 weeks ago.
Which airline?
My buddy flew yesterday MIA-GIG on AA. It cost him a little over $1000
I fly ORD-MIA-GIG on AA, usually cost me about $1100.
In my opinion/experience the costs of staying in Rio for a mongering trip depends highly on your choice of mongering venue and also travelling and lodging.
I would probably classify as a "high spender" as I only go for the termas and tend to blow quite a lot money.
A recent trip costs were:
Flight: us$300 in taxes + some airmiles (business class from europe)
Apartment: app. us$75 pr night
Food: app. us$30 pr day.
Entertaining: us$1500 (i like to go to nice restaurants wih company, also a few motel rentals).
Termas: u$3-4000 for the trip
Girls on the side: us$2-3000 per trip (seeing my favorites outside their work)
Various: us$1000
So for a two week trip without paying airfare I will spend app. us$10-12000.
But I have the time of my life when I am in Rio. I prefer to spend less money while at home and splurge when I travel and have time to enjoy some good company.
If I were to reduce my costs for the trip I would probably get some cheaper women and take it a bit easier on the entertainment outlays - but it would not be as much fun.
I flew AA, I have used them a few times since January. The fares have been $750.00 to USD$900, but that was when oil was at the relatively cheap price of USD$100 per barrel, as opposed to the current speculative bubble of the year price USD$ 137..........
I flew AA, I have used them a few times since January. The fares have been $750.00 to USD$900, but that was when oil was at the relatively cheap price of USD$100 per barrel, as opposed to the current speculative bubble of the year price USD$ 137..........
You were able to get fares to Brazil under $1,000 in January and February during Carnaval time??????
I just checked flights to Salvador, Brazil on Expedia for July 13 to July 27, 2008. This is what came up.
Airline Fare
LAN 3,500
United 2,100
AA 1,600
TAM 1,600
TAM 1,200 via Panama City and Rio de Janeiro (19 hours)
You were able to get fares to Brazil under $1,000 in January and February during Carnaval time??????
Absolutely. The key is to have flexible dates. For example i just did a search of the www.aa.com website for flights in "my dates are flexible", MIA-GIG in August, you just put in how many days you wish to stay and then specify the month you wish to travel. The result around Aug 13 was a price all inclusive of USD$ 959.00. In September, this year, the best price seems to be USD$ 951.00 .This is definitely more expensive than what it was about 2 or 3 months ago, but then the price of "black gold" is 40% more and AA have reduced their fleet by 10%.
I used the same method on January of this year, I checked the website daily for about 2 weeks and a fare came up for about $1000 on around Jan 20. After Carnaval this year, flights were relatively cheap, I got a few around $750.
There are 2 ways to get good deals on flights. The first is the one above, but you need to be flexible. The second is to book your flight months in advance. You get good discounts for planning.
A further tip. If you change your date or want anything special on your ticket these days expect to be "ripped a new asshole" by the airlines in the way of additional fees. I just tried to change the date of a AA ticket and they wanted to charge me a change fee of $200, this on a $250 ticket and I am a gold frequent flyer with them. I hence ripped up the ticket a bought a new one through a different carrier and ended up paying USD$ 199 because it is more flexible. The one thing I have noticed, not just this year, but for the last 10 years, with American based carriers, is that they have the worst service and most unfriendly rules of any carriers from any developed country. No wonder that they loose so much money every year. Even on good times they struggle to not go into bankrupcy. They are just badly managed. I base this opinion on flying 200,000 miles per year, mostly through asia and Europe. About 20% is maybe through the US.
I usually use two different sites for fare find:
www.flycheapabroad.com
www.allcheapfares.com
I have been successful with both sites. I found a fare of $853 including tax for the Labor Day weekend.
ryjer
Absolutely. The key is to have flexible dates.
Flexible dates can get you much lower fares. My problem is that due to my job, I have limited and inflexible windows for travel. For example, I would have a 2 week window in July, the first half, if I had the money. I can only flex 2 or 3 days within that window. The fares hardly budge.
The one thing I have noticed, not just this year, but for the last 10 years, with American based carriers, is that they have the worst service and most unfriendly rules of any carriers from any developed country. No wonder that they loose so much money every year. Even on good times they struggle to not go into bankrupcy. They are just badly managed. I base this opinion on flying 200,000 miles per year, mostly through asia and Europe. About 20% is maybe through the US.
I have also noticed that and make an effort to avoid US carriers. I fly TAM to Brazil and not AA. One glaring example of the huge difference in service is that in the post 911 era, meals were served with plastic utensils on US carriers (when meals were served at all). On the outgoing flight to Brazil, TAM includes metal utensils with the meals. The utensils are plastic on the in-bound flights. On one trip I flew AA to Sao Paulo. There were no individualized entertainment systems; only a public one for everybody. On TAM, there are, so you can watch whatever movie you want when you want, or listen to whatever music you want when you want, or do nothing at all.
I thought Johan (and you) was WAY off on the airfares. My airfare at New Year's was $1,800 on TAM. Granted that was at a high peak time. But fuel was half the price it is now. I haven't yet checked but I can't imagine ANY fare to Brazil from the US right now being less than $2,000 at off peak times. I can see peak fares of $2,500-$3,000 for holiday season 2008. Those of you who have travelled recently, please tell us the fares you paid.
Another thing is the continuing freefall of the US dollar. My modest hotel charged $R75 per night. At current exchange rates of around $R1.60 that is close to $50 per night, $700 for 2 weeks. There is higher inflation in Brazil than in the US so hotel rates can rise pretty quickly. I saw many rates at much less than 5 star hotels at $R150-250 per night or $100-150, nearing $2,000 for 2 weeks.
I would estimate that just airfare and hotel by themselves would cost $3,500-4,000 for a 2 week stay by an American travelling from the US. Add the cost of meals, taxis, and entertainment to suit your taste, and $7,000 is not an out-of-the-ballpark figure.
If I am not mistaken, their prices were for a one week stay.
Gents: HBO Latino is showing a special about Rio de Janeiro called Sexo Urbano. It is Closed Captioned in Spanish while the individuals in the show speak in Purtuguese. They talk about the Rio nightlife, clubs, a little of a bunch of things. Fast forward throught the undesirable portion of the show (You will know when they talk about them, yuk!!!), and it will give you a great notion of how some people feel about how sexy this city truly is. It runs on:
Mon 6/9 12:00 AM HBO LATINO - EAST
Mon 6/9 03:00 AM HBO LATINO - WEST
Wed 6/11 01:30 AM HBO LATINO - EAST
Wed 6/11 04:30 AM HBO LATINO - EAST
They will also add it to the on demand service starting Monday, Jun 9 so you can play it whenever you wish.
As far as flights, my August trip cost me $832 (LA to Sao Paolo) through Copa Airlines. I purchased the flight back in April. I know I'll probably get something added to the flight while traveling (Some "Tax", etc as they sometimes do when you are about to leave) but that is what I paid for my flight at the time. I go to Sao Paolo, then Rio (Gol flight from Sao paolo to Rio was R119, also purchased back in April). My Hotel cost for Sao Paolo and Rio (11 nights, hotels only) is $1150. Meals, transportation, and entertainment should run about $2,000 to 3,000. I've learned to use the metro in both cities and they will save you a bundle in the long run. So I estimate the cost of the trip to somewhere between $4,000 to $5,000 including inconsequencials and how things are going during the trip.
Absolutely. The key is to have flexible dates. For example i just did a search of the www.aa.com website for flights in "my dates are flexible", MIA-GIG in August, you just put in how many days you wish to stay and then specify the month you wish to travel. The result around Aug 13 was a price all inclusive of USD$ 959.00. In September, this year, the best price seems to be USD$ 951.00 .This is definitely more expensive than what it was about 2 or 3 months ago, but then the price of "black gold" is 40% more and AA have reduced their fleet by 10%.
I used the same method on January of this year, I checked the website daily for about 2 weeks and a fare came up for about $1000 on around Jan 20. After Carnaval this year, flights were relatively cheap, I got a few around $750.
There are 2 ways to get good deals on flights. The first is the one above, but you need to be flexible. The second is to book your flight months in advance. You get good discounts for planning.
A further tip. If you change your date or want anything special on your ticket these days expect to be "ripped a new asshole" by the airlines in the way of additional fees. I just tried to change the date of a AA ticket and they wanted to charge me a change fee of $200, this on a $250 ticket and I am a gold frequent flyer with them. I hence ripped up the ticket a bought a new one through a different carrier and ended up paying USD$ 199 because it is more flexible. The one thing I have noticed, not just this year, but for the last 10 years, with American based carriers, is that they have the worst service and most unfriendly rules of any carriers from any developed country. No wonder that they loose so much money every year. Even on good times they struggle to not go into bankrupcy. They are just badly managed. I base this opinion on flying 200,000 miles per year, mostly through asia and Europe. About 20% is maybe through the US.
Bubba Boy,
Your assessment of the airfare seem fair, but unfortunately most of us mongers who do not live in Miami, which tend to have LOWER fares to Central and South America due to its proximity, have to pay more for the extra legs. Also, if you can't fly directly from a major hub, the price goes up substantially. The major key, which was illustrated in your post and by others... shop around well in advance and you may be able to find reasonable fares, but the definition of reasonable is sure to change relatively soon.
Lonzof
Bubba Boy,
Your assessment of the airfare seem fair, but unfortunately most of us mongers who do not live in Miami, which tend to have LOWER fares to Central and South America due to its proximity, have to pay more for the extra legs. Also, if you can't fly directly from a major hub, the price goes up substantially. The major key, which was illustrated in your post and by others... shop around well in advance and you may be able to find reasonable fares, but the definition of reasonable is sure to change relatively soon.
Lonzof
FYI and out of curiosity I made a small search and NYC seems to be much cheaper than MIA to fly to SAO.
eg JUN 29th for two weeks AA costs $930 out of Newark and $1450 out of MIA. You can fly on Avianca from MIA for about $950 with 2 stops though on those dates.
I have been checking NYC for a while and seems to be cheaper.
Take a look and use this tool for a good reference.
http://matrix.itasoftware.com
log on as guest and tick the month long search.
Fact is that domestic fares in Brazil are very high. The Jet Blue guy has made a proposal to open an airline in Brazil using Brazilmade Embraers but until then...........
El Greco
FYI and out of curiosity I made a small search and NYC seems to be much cheaper than MIA to fly to SAO.
eg JUN 29th for two weeks AA costs $930 out of Newark and $1450 out of MIA. You can fly on Avianca from MIA for about $950 with 2 stops though on those dates.
One factor in airfares is the airport fees they have to pay. MIA is run by third world idiots and banana presidents from Haiti and Cuba. There are currently cost overruns from recent renovations running into the HUNDREDS of millions of dollars! The federal government is threatening to withdraw funding for the current integrated transportation project involving the airport due to gross mismanagement. The per gate or per take-off/landing costs at MIA are the HIGHEST in the entire country!
Up and Cummer
06-08-08, 19:24
The one thing I have noticed, not just this year, but for the last 10 years, with American based carriers, is that they have the worst service and most unfriendly rules of any carriers from any developed country. No wonder that they loose so much money every year. Even on good times they struggle to not go into bankrupcy. They are just badly managed. I base this opinion on flying 200,000 miles per year, mostly through asia and Europe. About 20% is maybe through the US.Are all the Brazilian Airlines "nationalized"? Not trying to get flamed but as a person who is in the Financial coummunity the reason US airlines can't get anything done, including mergers is the "Unions". I know this personally because I worked both sides of this becuase as a former construction worker I never worked "Union" and made a living. The atittude with USA "Airline unions" specifically is they gotten spoiled. It's not about safe working conditions ANYMORE for workers since safety is priority by union workers or not. Most of the "Union" guys I knew thought their "shit" didn't stink. Just isn't right CEO's and upper management need to get huge pay cuts too.
Check out this article.
Cheap flights era is over as fuel prices soar
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/2067201/Cheap-flights-era-is-over-as-fuel-prices-soar.html
Tiradentes
06-08-08, 22:26
Great news to the west coast people.
Korean Air just started a NONSTOP flight from Los Angeles to Sao Paulo. No need to fly to Dallas or Washington to fly to S. America.
This is indeed good news. However, I am still nervous of flying them as at one point, this airline, along with Taiwan's China Airlines, are recognized as two of the worst airlines when it comes to safety record. I have read stories on Wall Street Journal how the pilots at these two carriers fly their aircrafts as if they were flying fighter jets (all pilots on these airlines are ex airforce pilots of their respective countries).
Poucolouco
06-10-08, 03:07
Great news to the west coast people.
Korean Air just started a NONSTOP flight from Los Angeles to Sao Paulo. No need to fly to Dallas or Washington to fly to S. America.Be prepared to eat Kimchi. Carry mints, Imodium and Zantac (ranitidine).
Tiradentes
06-10-08, 04:09
This is indeed good news. However, I am still nervous of flying them as at one point, this airline, along with Taiwan's China Airlines, are recognized as two of the worst airlines when it comes to safety record. I have read stories on Wall Street Journal how the pilots at these two carriers fly their aircrafts as if they were flying fighter jets (all pilots on these airlines are ex airforce pilots of their respective countries).
Well, I am sure it is not as bad as flying on brazilian ailrlines
Below are numbers of fatalities from accidents/incidents of the carriers (since 1970) as reported on Wikipedia
Taiwan China Airlines 799
Korean Air 458 (not counting the 269 deaths on Flight 007 which was shot down by Soviet Fighter Jets)
TAM 221
Varig 222
Gol 154
I don't know if you can take a bus to Curitiba as the road system of Brasil, even in the south, is primitive. most of the so called Federal Highway is like our state route (one lane up/one lane down) with lots of curves - not designed to run 70mph for hours. Worse, they have lots of potholes on the freeway such that you really have to watch out when you drive - this is the freeway! my guess is, if the airport, which receives the most attention from the federal government is aversely affected, I doubt taking a bus/car would solve the problem.
Poucolouco
06-10-08, 17:43
i don't know if you can take a bus to curitiba as the road system of brasil, even in the south, is primitive. most of the so called federal highway is like our state route (one lane up/one lane down) with lots of curves - not designed to run 70mph for hours. worse, they have lots of potholes on the freeway such that you really have to watch out when you drive - this is the freeway! my guess is, if the airport, which receives the most attention from the federal government is aversely affected, i doubt taking a bus/car would solve the problem.bus service from porto alegre to florianopolis is just fine. there is no problem with the highway system all the way to curitiba. it is by no means primitive and speeds generally run 80. 100kph. the buses are comforable with air suspension ride. porto to floripa is about 7 hours and floripa to curitiba about 5-6 hrs by bus including a few stops along the way. travel by bus in brasil is an interesting and relaxing way to see the country.
I don't know if you can take a bus to Curitiba as the road system of Brasil, even in the south, is primitive. most of the so called Federal Highway is like our state route (one lane up/one lane down) with lots of curves - not designed to run 70mph for hours. Worse, they have lots of potholes on the freeway such that you really have to watch out when you drive - this is the freeway! my guess is, if the airport, which receives the most attention from the federal government is aversely affected, I doubt taking a bus/car would solve the problem.
I think Funkignitor meant the artist got stranded because of the planes couldn't take off because of the heavy rain. Buses will still go as long as the roads are not flooded.
BTW, if you think the roads are bad in the south you should see the roads in the inerior in the north-east.
Just to add to the point of being on the highways. If you are driving be prepared to see some seriously crappy driving from Brazilians. They will do everything possible on the road to make driving dangerous, much more dangerous than it need be. The mortality rate of South American roads is 10 times higher per 100,000 people than in Western Countries. Yeah sure the raods are not good, but the standard of driving and absolute disregard for another human life is just unbielavble.
One Eyed Man
06-11-08, 03:52
Be prepared to eat Kimchi. Carry mints, Imodium and Zantac (ranitidine).
I have flown Korean Air several times and found them to be great. Model-like flight attendants. The Korean food is yummy, though repetitive. Most of the time, they offer bibimbap (the chili paste is in a tube on the side.)
Carry . . . Imodium and Zantac (ranitidine).
Remember you can get excellent generic versions of both of these (ie diasec and ranitidine) at a fraction of the cost by shopping around in Rio. Diasec is usually standard-ish price (they will offer you 'tourist' Imodium first) whereas ranitidine is usually included in standard 'special offers' (often printed on the promotion sheets distributed at many pharmacias).
diasec is a little harder to get now, they ask for a prescription. Hence, you just need to try a few different pharmacis until one will sell it without a prescription.
Poucolouco
06-12-08, 04:30
I have flown Korean Air several times and found them to be great. Model-like flight attendants. The Korean food is yummy, though repetitive. Most of the time, they offer bibimbap (the chili paste is in a tube on the side.)I've tried bibimbap as well. Koreans call it mixed meal. I call it mystery meal. ;)
Spanish Main
06-15-08, 13:28
I am thinking of wintering in Brazil, say October to March.l. I live in Spain, but even here, the winters are too cold for me.
I would like to stay in a beach town, safe and friendly, where I can hire a girl or two to look after me...in very way!
Any suggestions from you local experts?
I am not into great nightlife; just a quiet life with good food, good wine, sunshine and lots of sex.
What should I pay for a modest house in a safe area and two girls each month.
Possible or a silly fantasy?
Perhaps a suggestion for a Spanish-speaking alternative...?
I don´t like Asia any more!
Spanish Main
06-15-08, 13:35
Incidentally, they don´t have to be 18 year old babes.
In fact I would prefer a couple around the 35 to 40 mark.
Or one of each...!
[QUOTE=So, what is mongering? [/QUOTE]
Better known as preaching to the choir!
Send it to Ebony or Essence!
I am thinking of wintering in Brazil, say October to March.l. I live in Spain, but even here, the winters are too cold for me.
I would like to stay in a beach town, safe and friendly, where I can hire a girl or two to look after me...in very way!
Any suggestions from you local experts?
I am not into great nightlife; just a quiet life with good food, good wine, sunshine and lots of sex.
What should I pay for a modest house in a safe area and two girls each month.
Possible or a silly fantasy?
Perhaps a suggestion for a Spanish-speaking alternative...?
I don´t like Asia any more!
Start from FORTALEZA and explore the smaller cities around there. Nice weather temperatures 25-31 celcius with no or little rain and humidity.
Everything is possible with money. It would be much better if you could speak some Portuguese.
I stay in one bedroom aparthotels in Fortaleza for about R1600/month, rent a small car for another R1400/month and my average expences are R100-150/day including sex (if not every day at least) every other day. That totals about 3000 euros/month
A little out of Fortaleza should be considerably cheaper.
For cheaper options and since you speak Spanish I would suggest Colombia although I didn't like the beaches there.
Exec Talent
06-15-08, 23:24
[QUOTE=Exec Talent]Its a spoof it is not real. Did you even read it.
Was there some added value in reading beyond the first line?
Carlos Primeros
06-16-08, 05:14
I would start with Ilheus in the State of Bahia - a city with 50.000 people, 30 miles of beaches, some good restaurants, an university near bye - lots of fun.
Easy to reach via Salvador by Air Europa from Madrid.
Carlos
I would start with Ilheus in the State of Bahia - a city with 50.000 people, 30 miles of beaches, some good restaurants, an university near bye - lots of fun.
Easy to reach via Salvador by Air Europa from Madrid.
Carlos
Thanks Carlos. I've read lots of good things about Ilheus.
I think I'll have to pay a visit there next time in Nordeste.
It's not that far from Fortaleza.
It's not that far from Fortaleza.
Actually Ilhéus is quite far from Fortaleza, 1657 km.
BTW Ilhéus has about 222'000 inhabitants. A pleasant city.
Spanish Main
06-17-08, 04:31
Thanks to El Greco and the rest for the advice.
Seems expensive at 3000 euros a month though. I will try Colombia as suggested. I think I could pick up Portuguese fairly quickly, but I can speak Spanish, so Colombia would be easier. Is safety a problem though, for a blonde Englishman?
My perfect scenario would be to live on the edge of town somewhere; to have a scooter to get around; to have two girls living me me for always-available fun. A fairly simple existance besed on food, wine, sun and sex!
I don´t want a different girl every day, I was more thinking of paying them to live with me. A bit like a downmarket version of Hugh Hefner!
I am not a bar person, almost reclusive, in a way. To be hidden away in my private hedonistic pleasure palace.
Maybe rent a small cortijo with someone else and a few girls to have fun with.
Interested anyone?
Spanish main I am interested if you want to pay for my ticket there! LOL. I am serious btw.
My song of the day
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=De4L9DcKsmo&NR=1
my song of the day
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=de4l9dcksmo&nr=1
riobob, the song was not that bad.
the video itself was just a bunch of ****d (<18) girls.
not my cup of tea.
My song of the day
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=De4L9DcKsmo&NR=1
HAHAHA!!! I love the title to that song. I cant wait to see about 30 girls at 4x4 dancing to this song!!!
riobob, the song was not that bad.
the video itself was just a bunch of ****d (<18) girls.
not my cup of tea.
sorry about that, maybe you'll like this video but not the song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byep9a3sh7s&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=waquskzuxhq&feature=related
Sorry about that, maybe you'll like this video but not the song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYeP9a3Sh7s&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WAQUskZuXhQ&feature=related
I dig that second video ... muitoooo obrigado!!
I dig that second video ... muitoooo obrigado!!
I agree. Indeed very nice!
Funk...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yEhunaljPg&feature=related
I agree. Indeed very nice!
Funk...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yEhunaljPg&feature=related
Nice vid too, looks like dance class for Help.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yEhunaljPg&feature=related
One of the dancers (shorts, small white top, silvered belt) is literally gorgeous, she seems to be one of those beautiful blood-mixed meninas ala Pocahonta from Mato Grosso or Mato Grosso do Sul ... shit .. gotta go back to Campo Grande.
:)
Pele robbed by armed gang in Brazil
Mon Jun 23, 10:01 AM ET
SAO PAULO (AFP) - Brazilian former soccer star Pele was robbed by a gun- and knife-wielding gang of youths when his chauffeur-driven car got stuck in traffic near Sao Paulo, a report in the weekly Veja newsmagazine said.
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The 67-year-old sporting legend was forced to hand over a watch, a gold chain and a mobile telephone to the 10-strong gang that surrounded his car, the magazine said.
The crime occurred two weeks ago, as Pele was being driven in Santos, on the coast near Sao Paulo.
According to Veja, Pele yelled out "It's Pele!" to his assailants as they targeted his vehicle, hoping they would let him go. Instead they hit the car and ordered him to hand over his possessions.
Pele robbed by armed gang in Brazil
Mon Jun 23, 10:01 AM ET
SAO PAULO (AFP) - Brazilian former soccer star Pele was robbed by a gun- and knife-wielding gang of youths when his chauffeur-driven car got stuck in traffic near Sao Paulo, a report in the weekly Veja newsmagazine said.
ADVERTISEMENT
The 67-year-old sporting legend was forced to hand over a watch, a gold chain and a mobile telephone to the 10-strong gang that surrounded his car, the magazine said.
The crime occurred two weeks ago, as Pele was being driven in Santos, on the coast near Sao Paulo.
According to Veja, Pele yelled out "It's Pele!" to his assailants as they targeted his vehicle, hoping they would let him go. Instead they hit the car and ordered him to hand over his possessions.Wow!!! Goes to show it really doesn't matter who you are when it comes to being Broke & making Robbing & stealing a livelihood!
Bdonkadonk
06-24-08, 03:13
Does anyone know where in Brazil one might be able to find Pornstar "Luana". She has done a handful of films, I have included a link to a film(boxcover) she did with Justin Slayer. I hope someone can help me out.
Thanks.
http://evilangel.com/images/boxcovers/slr-BBR3_dvdc.jpgI wonder myself about this girl. I saw her in recently released "Gigantic Brazilian Butts 3" and the info about her said that her hometown is supposed to be Rio. So any suggestions are definately welcome!
Tiradentes
06-24-08, 04:24
Pele robbed by armed gang in Brazil
Mon Jun 23, 10:01 AM ET
SAO PAULO (AFP) - Brazilian former soccer star Pele was robbed by a gun- and knife-wielding gang of youths when his chauffeur-driven car got stuck in traffic near Sao Paulo, a report in the weekly Veja newsmagazine said.
ADVERTISEMENT
Nobody in Brazil gives a $hit about this 'has-been' old fart.
His own son was arrested and jailed for drug trafficking.
Ex great football player Romario said it best about Pele: " Pele is a great poet, when he SHUTS his mouth".
Have to admire his football but that is about it. In the Formula 1, in São Paulo, about 3 or so years ago Pele was given the honor of waving the checkered flag to signal the end of the race. He was so busy talking to the dude next to him when the winner came around the bend and crossed the finish line Pele DID NOT wave the flag. He was completely oblivious to what was happening.
The commentator was pretty funny. He basically said, well the race is not officially over because the checkered flag was not waved but I guess they will have to work something out.
nobody in brazil gives a $hit about this 'has-been' old fart.
his own son was arrested and jailed for drug trafficking.
ex great football player romario said it best about pele: " pele is a great poet, when he shuts his mouth".
also, pele himself in spring 2007 was linked to the norwegian-pakistani "b-gang", as was raided in natal and in norway accused for white-wash of money from illegal drugbusiness. 25 - 30 criminals was arrested. most of the b-gang family is still in brasilian and norwegian prisons. assets worth between usd 50-66 million were confirep001ed in natal.
i guess that scandinavians in natal are very happy to get rid of the criminal pakistani gangmembers as was walking around in their holiday condominiums. link :
http://www.aftenposten.no/english/local/article1780050.ece
balluba
In today's Bloomberg, (June 27, 2008) there is an article about Brazil and the state of race relations.
I would like to read some opinions about this by other Brazil travelers. Personally, I think it is most specifc to Sao Paulo and other rich areas in the south of Brazil. I monger in the northeast and do not see the same issues. I agree with those who said that the poor quality of education in Brazil is at the root of the racial disparites seen in incomes and employment.
Now, why most Blacks and Browns in Brazil receive poor educations is another story.
Brazil is a multicultural country: Everybody is proud of being Brazilian etc...
True, but of course there exist racism in Brazil. Not racism as they are looking down on black/mixed as a lower race, it's more like a social problem.
As long as the black/mixed population doesn't have the same opportunities as the white over/middle-class to study and work they will continue to have this problem.
The majority of the lower class are black/mixed.
The majority employed in lowclass-jobs are black/mixed.
The majority living in the favelas are black/mixed.
The majority of the criminals are black/mixed.
The whites are in majority in the upperclass, the universities and all the managerjobs.
Some examples:
* If you travel with a city-bus in Rio and a couple of black kids gets on the bus everybody gets on their alert. If they were white kids it wouldn't be the same.
* Go to a upperscale restaurant, almost the only black/mixed people you'll see will be the doormen.
* Novelas, go back 10 years and you would hardly see any black/mixed actors except for the empregadas.
* The same goes for the comercials. Used to be just white people.
* If you as a gringo walk together with a white girl she might be taken for a regular girl. If the girl is black/mixed many people will take for granted that she's a prostitute.
If you go north or northeast in Brazil the differences ain't that big as in Rio, Sampa and the south.
Editing: I add nordestinos to the "discriminated" group.
That is whites contra black/mixed/nordestinos.
CBGBConnisur
06-27-08, 17:30
I recently saw the TV series Mandrake, and I am interested in visiting Brazil. Between Rio and Sao Paulo, which is the best city for getting good p4p in Brazil?
What kind of budget would be good to have a lot of fun for one month there? How much could $10,000 go?
What kind of budget would be good to have a lot of fun for one month there? How much could $10,000 go?
US 10'000 means that you can get laid 640 times at VM.
It sounds fair enough to me.
CBGBConnisur
06-27-08, 17:53
Really? I kept hearing rumors that p4p is getting expensive over there. Most girls asking for a bare minimum of $100US and many asking as much as $500US.
Really? I kept hearing rumors that p4p is getting expensive over there. Most girls asking for a bare minimum of $100US and many asking as much as $500US.
It all depends on where you look for P4P.
Let say the average prices range from everything between R$ 10-200. In Rio it must take something really exceptionable to make me even consider paying more than R$ 100. It's not just a question about me being cheap, but a decision considering the options in Rio.
If you have the need to play GF/BF and bring the GP out to dinner, go shopping etc it will cost you more.
If it's your first time in Rio and you'll limit your hunting ground to Copacabana I would say you would have to count at least R$ 150/lady.
What the girls ask for and what the girl will accept are two totally different things.
I might ask fora BJ from Angelina J**ie but I know I won't get it. :(
Really? I kept hearing rumors that p4p is getting expensive over there. Most girls asking for a bare minimum of $100US and many asking as much as $500US.I would add to what Sperto said.. his prices are accurate, AND you can have the girl all night, and morning. They are very affectionate and will want to be your GF.. you end up paying them to leave. R$200 at the most is about right for a nice gal, all night and morning.
Mr Enternational
06-28-08, 14:01
Really? I kept hearing rumors that p4p is getting expensive over there. Most girls asking for a bare minimum of $100US and many asking as much as $500US.
HA! Yeah right. Me and my wingman got 2 in front of Help last night at 1am for R$100 each and they are still here at 10am. Two separate transactions as they did not know each other. Will write report in the proper section.
Tiradentes
06-28-08, 14:17
From oglobo newspapers, 06/27/08:
Cursary translation:
1). 45 additional weekly direct flights to Brazil for a total of 154.
2). And more importantly: Direct flights to Fortaleza (northeast) and Curitiba (south)
-------------------------------------------
What it means to you:
Nordest (Fortaleza, Recife, Natal, etc.), aka the most beautiful part of Brazil according to most Brazilians and listening to folk songs, is OPEN FOR BUSINESS / MONGERING. There is no more need to unnecessarly fly to SP and then backtrack at least 4 hours to Fortaleza.
For example, a flight from DC to Fortaleza would now be around 5.5 hours long. That's nothing! I spend more time than that driving to an overcowded/polluted beach on weekends to see big fat american whales. Ops , I meant women.
Weekends in Brazil!
http://oglobo.globo.com/viagem/mat/2008/06/27/brasil_eua_modificam_acordo_bilateral_para_aumentar_em_50_numero_de_voos_entre_os_paises-546998740.asp
Mr Enternational
06-28-08, 14:28
In today's Bloomberg, (June 27, 2008) there is an article about Brazil and the state of race relations.
I would like to read some opinions about this by other Brazil travelers. Personally, I think it is most specifc to Sao Paulo and other rich areas in the south of Brazil. I monger in the northeast and do not see the same issues. I agree with those who said that the poor quality of education in Brazil is at the root of the racial disparites seen in incomes and employment.
Now, why most Blacks and Browns in Brazil receive poor educations is another story.
Blacks and Browns in Brazil receive poor educations? But how is that possible when the universities are free? First of all, after slavery Brazilian blacks and browns were only set free.
In my country, the US of A, we were fortunate enough not only to be set free, but in addition many whites built schools and universities (HSBCs: Historically Black Colleges and Universities) in order that blacks and browns could become educated and could become productive members of society and not burdens.
As I said before, the universities (public) in Brazil are free. However, in order to get into one of these schools, a person has to pass a test called the vestibular, which is kinda like the SAT in the US, but it is specific to the field that the person wants to enter. In order to pass this test one must have had a strong elementary and secondary school background. Well Brazil is no different than the US on the argument about poor public schools. The majority of the people who are able to pass the vestibular are those whose families have sent them for a private elementary and secondary education and not the ones who have done it in the public system. Most blacks and browns can not afford to send their children to private schools so that they can later partake in the free public university. So this is how we come to the blacks and browns receiving a poor education.
Of course there are exceptions to the rules. I have black friends who had public educations but were intrinsically smart enough and studied their asses off to pass the test and went on to the free universities. I also know whites whose parents could not afford to send them to school but they also were able to pass the test and get a free university education. I must admit though that none of them are economically independant from their family by North American standards. Most still live at home and continue struggling to find a better job in the jungle which is the Brazilian labor force.
Some more clarification about universities in Brazil. In Brazil you have public universities that are free and private universities that cost a lot. The standard of teaching are higher on the public universities.
The ones who have the greatest chances to enter the free universities are the kids of the wealthy as they have the opportunity of attending courses preparing for the entering tests/vestibular to the free universities.
If you are poor and want to enter a university you have two options:
1. Be absolutely brilliant and manage to pass the tests to the public university.
2. Be absolutely brilliant and manage to get a scholarship to a private university.
Exec Talent
06-28-08, 14:59
CBGBConnisur,
Should I assume you speak Portuguese? If so, then you should pay what I pay which is nothing since I go out with non-GDPs.
However, if you are a typical tourist you are not going to get a girl worth traveling as far as you did for R$100 all night. Can you find women at that rate? Sure, I can find them in about any country in the world too. Would I have sex with them; that is another story.
For non-Poruguese speakers, Help rates are about R$200-300 for all night. Escort agencies charge about R$150 - 200 for two hours (which includes taxi). Service from agency girls is usually good, appearance can vary widely and usually lower than what you would self-select at a termas or from Help.
Mr Enternational
06-28-08, 15:10
CBGBConnisur,
Should I assume you speak Portuguese? If so, then you should pay what I pay which is nothing since I go out with non-GDPs.
However, if you are a typical tourist you are not going to get a girl worth traveling as far as you did for R$100 all night. Can you find women at that rate? Sure, I can find them in about any country in the world too. Would I have sex with them; that is another story.
For non-Poruguese speakers, Help rates are about R$200-300 for all night. Escort agencies charge about R$150 - 200 for two hours (which includes taxi). Service from agency girls is usually good, appearance can vary widely and usually lower than what you would self-select at at termas or from Help.
One of the most valid points on ISG! Language goes a long way. One of my wingmen was in the DR recently. He said they are asking $60 US now. He spoke to her in Spanish and lied to her saying that he was not a stupid American but that he was Brazilian and he would give her $30. She told him that he didn't speak Portuguese. He dropped some Portuguese on her and she appologized thinking that he was really Brazilian and went with him for $30.
Brazil Specialist
06-28-08, 16:08
I would add to what Sperto said.. his prices are accurate, AND you can have the girl all night, and morning. They are very affectionate and will want to be your GF.. you end up paying them to leave. R$200 at the most is about right for a nice gal, all night and morning.
I think all these guys are either residents, or very frequent visitors. Or fairly young (under 40) and good looking
The average visitor will not pull top quality girls out of Help for all night for R$ 200. The average visitor will pay R$ 300 per termas visit.
To get freebies with really young (legal) and pretty girls, you need to be fairly attractive, have good pickup skills, or be less picky in terms of quality and variety. Prepare for jealous surveillance.
I have met only one guy who managed to have multiple non-pay regular girlfriends plus a few more occasional pickups. And he was the most skilled pick-up artist I have ever seen.
But paying 400 or 500 is kind of unnecessary. Avoid tourist traps like carnival and New Years.
Now you can find perfect fucks for R$ 60-120, or 2 girls for an hour for R$ 120 to 150 in nice clean environment during ay time if you scour some apartment buildings downtown and know where to ring.
Or for R$ 10-30 for quickies if you don't mind a somewhat sleazy and not-so-clean environment and read a few reports by me years ago or people who wrote more recently.
I rent nice well equipped suites in my apartment near Help. If you stay with me I usually help out with advice, might join you to more difficult places, etc. (depending on mood or availability, no guarantee unless talked over in advance).
I gladly help out people who do NOT stay with me but just stop over to chat, but obviously if you stay at my place you can get opportunities to meet girls that suddenly drop by unannounced and other extra perks. So feel free to contact me before you come to Rio or while you are here.
Sunset Strip
06-28-08, 23:39
I just got back from Rio and hit the centro casas for the first time thanks to info from this site (I also bought cheap soccer jerseys and quality DVDs with Porto subtitles so I can keep learning).
One thing I wish I could have done was found the therma/casa in Niteroi that somebody reported on last year ( I think). He said it was located near the McDonalds on the bay as you get off the ferry.
I left my printout of his post at home and have not found it in the search function.
**But if anybody is in Rio and can get over there to see if this therma is still running that would be good info.**
I should be back in August and will make sure to take my printout of the Niteroi post with me.
TJ
Transparency International has published an annual Corruption Perceptions Index ordering the countries of the world according to "the degree to which corruption is perceived to exist among public officials and politicians".
179 countries are listed. I was surprised that Brazil had such a "low" number as 72.
http://www.transparency.org/policy_research/surveys_indices/cpi/2007
CBGBConnisur
07-08-08, 16:43
What are the prices for a session with top quality providers, Adriana Lima or Gisele Bunchen quality women in Rio?
Transparency International has published an annual Corruption Perceptions Index ordering the countries of the world according to "the degree to which corruption is perceived to exist among public officials and politicians".
179 countries are listed. I was surprised that Brazil had such a "low" number as 72.
http://www.transparency.org/policy_research/surveys_indices/cpi/2007
I looked at the list, and unless the respondents have been living underground the past couple of years, they are definitely intellectually challenged...............
ryjer
What are the prices for a session with top quality providers, Adriana Lima or Gisele Bunchen quality women in Rio?
I'm sure a top-earning model like Gisele Bundchen, that's good for US$ 35 million, is very interested in giving you a quickie.
CBGBConnisur
07-08-08, 19:40
That was not my point, I was wondering how much are the going rates for top providers in Rio, with looks of that high calibre. I heard there are millions of beautiful women in Brazil of that kind of calibre.
Brazil Specialist
07-09-08, 18:39
That was not my point, I was wondering how much are the going rates for top providers in Rio, with looks of that high calibre. I heard there are millions of beautiful women in Brazil of that kind of calibre.
It really depends on exactly your taste and what features of the girls you want.
Status, extremely low mileage, non-prostitute (with few occasional exceptions) are possible.
There are a few agencies and private madams and pimps that can get you real models, actresses etc, a market where actual real rich Brazilians shell out 1000- 20 000 R$ for a sex session.
There are rich cattle ranchers who have such girls flown in for a weekend onto their ranches.
I know a guy who gets girls for R$ 500 or 1000 for top lawyers, illegal gambling lords, and other Brazilians for whom R$ 1000 is a pittance. I know of a few agencies who have playboy girls for 400 - 10 000 Reais.
Interestingly, in Brazilian whoring message boards, some of these "lower end" R$ 500 girls got very good ratings for attitude. I asked a madam and she said if someone asks for R$ 400 to 1000 for a session, she better not get complaints from customers or that will be the last time she will be working.
Now on the other hand, good looking girls can be found in termas etc.
There might be subtle difference in appearance, but most of the price is for status, subtle class differences etc.
I even once saw a maior female TV newscast speaker on the roll of an agency. They stressed she was only available for dinners, no sex involved. Still cost a few thousands. But for a ridiculously rich backcountry rancher, it would be a maior boost to his status being seen with a famous woman for dinner.
From oglobo newspapers, 06/27/08:
Cursary translation:
1). 45 additional weekly direct flights to Brazil for a total of 154.
2). And more importantly: Direct flights to Fortaleza (northeast) and Curitiba (south)
What airline?
Since this is one of the only forums I ever go to;
I have to ask this distantly related to subject question here:
A girl I met from Rio De Janiero in an airport, quickly slipped me her postal address but I believe, the order in which she wrote her info is incorrect for post office delivery.
She wrote :
First Name , Last Name
Brasil
Rio De Janiero
Street & House #
Postal Code
Is this correct?
Or should it be like an address in USA
1st Name , Last Name
house # and street
Rio De Janiero
Postal Code
Brasil
Since this is one of the only forums I ever go to;
I have to ask this distantly related to subject question here:
A girl I met from Rio De Janiero in an airport, quickly slipped me her postal address but I believe, the order in which she wrote her info is incorrect for post office delivery.
She wrote :
First Name , Last Name
Brasil
Rio De Janiero
Street & House #
Postal Code
Is this correct?
Or should it be like an address in USA
1st Name , Last Name
house # and street
Rio De Janiero
Postal Code
BrasilUse this format:
name
ave atlantica xxxx, apt yyy
Copacabana
Rio de Janeiro , RJ
CEP 22000-000
Brazil
copacabana is the barrio, you do not need it but customary.
Ex-Diplomat: Sex With Teens OK in Brazil, Congo
Thursday, July 10, 2008
ALEXANDRIA, Virginia — An ex-diplomat convicted of having sex with teenage girls in the Congo and Brazil and taping the encounters is asking a judge for leniency, claiming that cultural differences in those countries make sex with girls more acceptable.
Gons G. Nachman, 42, pleaded guilty in April to possessing child pornography after admitting that he had sex with 14- to 17-year-old girls while serving as a consular officer in Brazil and Congo and documenting the encounters in pictures and videos.
The judge has agreed to delay Nachman's sentencing until Aug. 22 so that he can be examined by noted forensic psychologist Stanton Samenow. Defense attorney Stephen Stine said in court papers that a psychological examination might show that cultural differences led Nachman to believe that sexual contact with teenage girls was acceptable, and that should have an impact on what kind of sentence he receives.
Prosecutors rejected the notion that Nachman's victims somehow deserve less protection because they were not born or raised in America.
"Children in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Brazil have the same inherent value as children in the United States," prosecutor Ron Walutes wrote in court papers.
Prosecutors are asking for a 20-year prison term, the maximum he could receive under the law and much higher than the term of nine to 11 years called for under federal sentencing guidelines.
In a letter Nachman wrote from jail to the director of the Foreign Service pleading with him to intervene and get the charges dropped, Nachman explained the cultural differences as he sees them.
"In the Congo, women develop quickly, both physically and emotionally, due to the substantial responsibility society places on them from early childhood," Nachman wrote. "In Kinshasa, the vast majority of teenagers are sexually active with men that are substantially older. ... Their main concern is marrying young girls to men with financial stability, a concern dating thousands of years and cutting across cultural lines."
The case has been unusual on several fronts. It includes allegations that Nachman pressured attractive female visa applicants in Brazil for sex. Nachman admitted that he had sex with two women whom he met in the visa application process, but he denied coercing them and he was never charged in the matter.
Another odd twist is Nachman's prominence in the nudist community: In the 1990s, when attending law school at the University of Pennsylvania, Nachman led several public demonstrations advocating nudity. Nachman now contends that he was targeted for investigation in part because of his well-known affinity for the nudist lifestyle.
In his letter to the Foreign Service director, Nachman says investigators knew of his interest in nudism and illegally searched his apartment with the notion of finding images that, taken out of context, could be used against him.
Nachman says in the letter that he disclosed his activism and lifestyle to the Foreign Service and had no problems receiving a security clearance. State Department spokeswoman Nicole Thompson declined to comment directly on whether an individual's advocacy for public nudity would be a factor in the State Department's hiring process.
Nachman's prominence in the nudist community was such that, even though his activism was more than a decade ago, some nudists feel compelled to distance themselves from him.
In an upcoming issue of N Magazine, a publication of the Naturist Society, an editorial takes a strong stance against Nachman's conduct.
"The severity of what he did is unambiguous. Although his criminal actions were in no way connected with naturism, for many readers of the international news accounts, there will be guilt by association," the society wrote.
Perhaps the strangest twist in the case was Nachman's request that the judge who will sentence him conduct a marriage ceremony for him and his 21-year-old Brazilian fiancee. He wanted to be married before sentencing since he doubted that he would be able to marry once transferred to the custody of the Bureau of Prisons.
U.S. District Court Judge Gerald Bruce Lee rejected the request.
"There is a time and a place for everything. The Court finds that sentencing is neither the time nor the place" for a wedding, Lee wrote.
Brazil Specialist
07-12-08, 07:12
Ex-Diplomat: Sex With Teens OK in Brazil, Congo
Thursday, July 10, 2008
ALEXANDRIA, Virginia — An ex-diplomat convicted of having sex with teenage girls in the Congo and Brazil and taping the encounters is asking a judge for leniency, claiming that cultural differences in those countries make sex with girls more acceptable.
Defense attorney Stephen Stine said in court papers that a psychological examination might show that cultural differences led Nachman to believe that sexual contact with teenage girls was acceptable, and that should have an impact on what kind of sentence he receives.
Until a few years ago, when somehow American Values were imported to Brazil, absolutely nobody thought that sex with 17 or 16 year old girls was a problem. Even now most Brazilians don't think this is much of a problem
Most poor Brazilian girls have a kid before they reach 18 years of age, and I don't hear much about prosecution of the father.
The age of consent is basically 14 years. But for foreigners, especially for prostitution, normally 18 years is enforced, nowadays.
I don't know Congo, but most likely sex with 14 year olds is probably normal. Probably he saw everyone else around him doing it and considered it normal.
Even in Europe, the age of consent is 16 or younger, and for prosecution for sex in foreign countries is 16
So the guy has a point. But, according to US law, he committed a crime anyway. And filming it was kind of dumb.
And if you are a diplomat, you should know the laws of your own land.
Until a few years ago, when somehow American Values were imported to Brazil, absolutely nobody thought that sex with 17 or 16 year old girls was a problem. Even now most Brazilians don't think this is much of a problem
Most poor Brazilian girls have a kid before they reach 18 years of age, and I don't hear much about prosecution of the father.
The age of consent is basically 14 years. But for foreigners, especially for prostitution, normally 18 years is enforced, nowadays.
I don't know Congo, but most likely sex with 14 year olds is probably normal. Probably he saw everyone else around him doing it and considered it normal.
Even in Europe, the age of consent is 16 or younger, and for prosecution for sex in foreign countries is 16
So the guy has a point. But, according to US law, he committed a crime anyway. And filming it was kind of dumb.
And if you are a diplomat, you should know the laws of your own land.
It's really interesting how as Americans we have a tendency to put ours value system ahead of those of others. There is also a tendency to mock what we don't understand. I try very hard to have a basic understanding of how other cultures live without passing judgement. While I can see the premise of young girls marrying older men for financial stability, I don't think that's what he was doing.
If you go to a country where this goes on, and you're not living there, or marrying them, aren't you just there to exploit these young girls? It's not for me, but worthy of some healthy discussion, or maybe not.
ryjer
Did you figure that one out all by yourself, or did you have help?
Jamaicanceo
No help................just me.
Hey Gents,
Anyone familiar with this website, or their services?
http://www.noplacelikebrazil.com/index.html
Thanks,
ryjer
Exec Talent
07-15-08, 00:33
Hey Gents,
Anyone familiar with this website, or their services?
URL Intentionally Left Blank
Thanks,
ryjer
The internet, so much bullshit, such small minds. Just more gringos trying to make a buck.
I make the rounds a lot in Rio and if you feel you must have a tour guide, the one I would recommend is Ken at http://www.amerioca.net/. He lives in Rio and does the business right.
The internet, so much bullshit, such small minds. Just more gringos trying to make a buck.
I make the rounds a lot in Rio and if you feel you must have a tour guide, the one I would recommend is Ken at http://www.amerioca.net/. He lives in Rio and does the business right.
Not looking for a guide, just came across this site in my daily internet travels......thanks though.
ryjer
I've read your posts.
Much respect to you Ryjerrob!
I wasn't trying to be a smart-ass. Probably just a little passing on what I got a year ago. I guess you can call it hazing a little. I try to keep up on what's posted on a daily basis, and try to share my experiences as well. I've learned a lot from many people here, and actually followed in the footsteps of some. Have a great experience.........
ryjer
Marc Anthony
07-15-08, 20:29
I'm going to be stopping for a day in Fortaleza on a cruise and have to decide whether to bother getting a visa to be able to get off. The fee seems to be $140 and you have to jump through some hoops, but it seems to be reported that it's good for 5 years and I definitely might come back. Can anybody confirm the 5 years?
I've mentioned in another thread about my Brasil travel kit, which is just a box of things I keep stored for until the next trip. Is anyone interested in sharing some of their items list with me? I add something after each trip, but could always use more insight.
ryjer
I'm going to be stopping for a day in Fortaleza on a cruise and have to decide whether to bother getting a visa to be able to get off. The fee seems to be $140 and you have to jump through some hoops, but it seems to be reported that it's good for 5 years and I definitely might come back. Can anybody confirm the 5 years?
I have had 3 Brazil tourist visas, and they have all been for 5 years. However, some posters on this forum indicate that they have been issued visas valid for only 90 days, and that it at the discretion of the consulate which one to issue. It is information like this that makes this forum invaluable. Since I knew about the different types of visas from this forum, when I applied for my most recent visa, I accompanied my visa application with a letter to the Miami Consulate requesting a 5 years visa. It was granted with no problem. So I suggest that, if you want a 5 year visa, you ask for one.
L
I've mentioned in another thread about my Brasil travel kit, which is just a box of things I keep stored for until the next trip. Is anyone interested in sharing some of their items list with me? I add something after each trip, but could always use more insight.
ryjer
On the other hand, I usually try to pack with less each trip to anywhere, unless it involves a tux!
But even in Rio, a decent enough wardrobe for the opera is available in nearby stores cheaply enough to make it not worth bringing.
Most can't-do-without items I only take enough of until I can replenish them locally.
I do take a fresh Brasilian shirt (green and yellow football) to change into before the plane lands if arriving from abroad. I take Brasilian shorts for the beach as they can't be faked, and I can sew secret pockets into the lining while away. I put Brasilian sockets on any electricals, like my phone charger. A travel clothes line and sink stopper for staying in the lowlife places I frequent. Two different credit cards. My one luxury is usually reasonable reading material and a pocket notebook. I also make a folding pocket guide of emergency numbers/info and any up-to-date stuff I want to refer to. This is made by folding and unfolding a sheet of blank paper so you end up with 8 squares, 4x2. By making a slit two squares long in the centre and then collapsing it (fold it lengthwise once, then grasp the two ands and push; the slit opens and lets you flatten & fold it), it will fold into a reversible booklet of 16 pages. I keep a formatted page on the computer with the layout so I can update the info every so often. 16 pages is enough for termas, cool phrases, phone numbers, even a map.
The Watcher
07-15-08, 22:30
I've mentioned in another thread about my Brasil travel kit, which is just a box of things I keep stored for until the next trip. Is anyone interested in sharing some of their items list with me? I add something after each trip, but could always use more insight.
ryjer
I could not find your post in another thread about your Brasil travel kit. Could you please tell me where it is?
I have been trying to get together a list for a few years. I would be happy to share what I have with you. Should I post it here or send it to you in a PM?
... some posters on this forum indicate that they have been issued visas valid for only 90 days, and that it at the discretion of the consulate which one to issue. True. My visa is valid for only 30 days. I had to arrange my visa before a trip to Singapore and Australia a few weeks ago, so it turns out it had only eight days left when I arrived in Rio, and it expires the day after I leave.
Possibly too much info, but here goes
Passport
Travel tickets/info
ATM cards & cash
Notebook
Post-its
Diary
Email addresses / URLs
Xeroxes of passport
Spare pocket chains
Peter Storm jacket (or other lightweight performance* rainproof)
Rohan convertibles (or other nondescript performance trousers)
Gym wear (ie 1 pair white socks)
socks & underpants
Rohan T-shirts (or other performance, nondescript, non-branded) + 1 Brasilian t-shirt
Brasilian Shorts
Trainers (high impact sole, breathable tops, made to look dirty enough not to attract attention)
Convertible backpack/daypack small enough for onboard luggage
Luggage lock & cable
expandable bag
Locks
Smart phone
Disposable phone for use in Brasil
Earphones for bus-trips
Small flat digital camera
Electric toothbrush, adapted
Adapted charger for all above
Brasililan multi-plug
Contact lenses
Glasses & case
Dental floss
Disposable razor
Aftershave
Pack of condoms
Energy bar for arrival
Sleeping tablets for flight
Tiny soap & container
Nail clippers
Sink stopper
Travel clothesline
Small amount of folded toilet paper
Tiny bottle antiseptic skin
Earplugs & eyemask
Inflatable travel pillow
Couple of plasters
Reading material
*Performance clothing is the stuff made by a small number of specialist suppliers (Rohan being one of them) that maximises qualities like hard-wearing, packs into tiny space, washes and dries very quickly with no ironing, very lightweight and so on. It usually includes high-security features such as hidden pockets.
If I know the airport arrangement I'm travelling thru, I get things like aftershave, deodorant and so on after security as they don't count and there's always space in my carry-on luggage (I don't do checked-in luggage unless I've splurged on Brasilian goods to take back.)
As soon as I'm settled, I buy farmacia supplies, some nice clothes from my favourite boutique, some Mr Cat shoes and socks, a SIM card or top-up, gym membership and so on. Though not essential, I take my blue Brasilian havaianas if I'm going to be on the beach a lot. The ones you can buy quickly are not always the nicest or trendiest lol.
The guy at airport immigration told me I have to bring my entry/exit card to the police on the day I leave. I asked him "The police at the airport?" and he said no - the police in Rio. Is this true? (he didn't speak much English, so maybe I misunderstood).
BTW - I got through immigration/customs in only a few minutes. They directed *everyone* in the queue, except me, to the X-ray machine, including families and little old ladies, and searched many bags. I had a three-day growth, messy hair, wearing long-shorts, sandals, a wrinkled shirt, and generally looking like a walking mug-shot, but they waved me straight through to the exit. They must like that look.
El Austriaco
07-16-08, 00:49
The guy at airport immigration told me I have to bring my entry/exit card to the police on the day I leave. I asked him "The police at the airport?" and he said no - the police in Rio. Is this true? (he didn't speak much English, so maybe I misunderstood).
For me personally, the procedure was always like this: you have to carry the entry card that is issued to you with your passport at all times, and once you leave the country, the Federal Police (who is in charge of all immigration issues in Brazil) that checks your passport to determine how long you have stayed retains it. Pretty quick and easy. Failure to produce the entry card at that time might lead to delays and/or complications (just like it would in the US if you lose your entry card while in the country).
At least that's the way it used to be between 2000 and the last time I was there, in April 2006.
EA
First of all, I am terrible with pdf files, so the formatting sucks. I took a list that I got on my first trip and just add to it as necessary. While it is a generic travel sheet, it makes you think. I never pack the same for any two trips. Sometimes I've gone to Rio and tried to run through everything is sight. Other trips, I hang with a select groups of girls, while others, I'm a hardcore cheap ass, and can't get enough of Centro.
Anyway, I hope this helps......
ryjer
I did a bit of research and found this list of swingers clubs in Brazil. Single guys allowed some nights (about 100R entry most places).
Better to bring a girl - entry is usually about half price in total, and from my experience, you get more privileges when you bring a girl (e.g., some clubs have 'couples-only' areas even if they allow single guys in, and usually the couples-only area is where all the action is. Also, some guys won't let you play with their girlfriends/wives unless you can return the favor. Fair enough.
I used this site in Paris a couple of years ago - it's pretty reliable and includes independent reviews of the clubs - resulted in a very interesting night out.
http://www.swingersclublist.com/Brazil_swingers.html
Here's a post about my swingers club experience in Paris. It gives some idea of the setup of swingers clubs anywhere in the world. This one was a mixed experience, as my girl was wilder than I thought. I brought along an Indian/British girl I met on an internet dating site. I paid for her chunnel train ticket from London to Paris to stay with me for a weekend. She was not a WG (she's a goverment lawyer), but she was a hot nympho, a wild clubber and had a better time than I did. Not fair!
http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showpost.php?p=486292&postcount=847
Poucolouco
07-16-08, 01:46
First of all, I am terrible with pdf files, so the formatting sucks. I took a list that I got on my first trip and just add to it as necessary. While it is a generic travel sheet, it makes you think. I never pack the same for any two trips. Sometimes I've gone to Rio and tried to run through everything is sight. Other trips, I hang with a select groups of girls, while others, I'm a hardcore cheap ass, and can't get enough of Centro.
Anyway, I hope this helps.
RyjerUntil I read this post. :)
I took a list that I got on my first trip and just add to it as necessary. While it is a generic travel sheet, it makes you think. I never pack the same for any two trips. Sometimes I've gone to Rio and tried to run through everything is sight. Other trips, I hang with a select groups of girls, while others, I'm a hardcore cheap ass, and can't get enough of Centro.
Anyway, I hope this helps......
ryjer
From what I've seen of most American friends' kit, your list would be much closer to the checklist they would use than mine.
I have met a few travellers who prefer the 'travel light' approach though. You exit the airport with no wait for luggage retrieval, a none-too-heavy bag swung over your shoulder, free to wander around and look at apartments or hotels before deciding where to stay. There again, I sometimes wish I had the laptop and other home comforts many people never travel without.
Of course, you can combine the best of some of both worlds. If I can't buy them post-security, I take extra small toothpastes etc. I get in the habit of buying these space savers whenever I see them. Current UK regs allow you to take a considerable quantity of liquid items as long as no item contains more than 100ml I think it is - all in the lil' ol' plastic bag. I've never found Brasilian (exit) customs quite so pernickity. Standing next to big signs saying 'only one plastic bag' a security guy asks me 'how many' I would like. The extra liquids in my hand luggage (drinks) would have been clearly visible on x-rays but they said nothing.
I did a bit of research and found this list of swingers clubs in Brazil. Single guys allowed some nights (about 100R entry most places).
Better to bring a girl - entry is usually about half price in total, and from my experience, you get more privileges when you bring a girl (e.g., some clubs have 'couples-only' areas even if they allow single guys in, and usually the couples-only area is where all the action is. Also, some guys won't let you play with their girlfriends/wives unless you can return the favor. Fair enough.
I used this site in Paris a couple of years ago - it's pretty reliable and includes independent reviews of the clubs - resulted in a very interesting night out.
http://www.swingersclublist.com/Brazil_swingers.html
Here's a post about my swingers club experience in Paris. It gives some idea of the setup of swingers clubs anywhere in the world. This one was a mixed experience, as my girl was wilder than I thought. I brought along an Indian/British girl I met on an internet dating site. I paid for her chunnel train ticket from London to Paris to stay with me for a weekend. She was not a WG (she's a goverment lawyer), but she was a hot nympho, a wild clubber and had a better time than I did. Not fair!
http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showpost.php?p=486292&postcount=847
Good posts about the swing clubs, I'll attach 2 of mine from January in Rio
699976
699853
Also, I'm doing some research for more swing clubs in Rio to try and keep myself busy everyday, I found one that is open on Sunday afternoon with a pool and a barbeque, maybe someone knows it or can check it out?
http://www.adrenalinaclub.com.br/
I could not find your post in another thread about your Brasil travel kit. Could you please tell me where it is?
I have been trying to get together a list for a few years. I would be happy to share what I have with you. Should I post it here or send it to you in a PM?
The post I was referring to dealt with supplies for an all day trip to the casas of Centro.
1. Body Spray
2. Baby Wipes
3. Condoms
4. Sperto's Map
6. Day Pack (small)
7. Toys (Sperto Suggestion
8. Favorite Lube
The guy at airport immigration told me I have to bring my entry/exit card to the police on the day I leave. I asked him "The police at the airport?" and he said no - the police in Rio. Is this true? (he didn't speak much English, so maybe I misunderstood).
I have never had to do this. I think he meant that you have to produce it when you exit the country. On one of my trips I lost the entry card. I was expecting trouble at the airport, but the guy just waved me through. This doesn't necessarily mean that this will always happen.
L
On one of my trips I lost the entry card. I was expecting trouble at the airport, but the guy just waved me through. This doesn't necessarily mean that this will always happen.L
I though that a fine was imposed, for losing the entry card, upon leaving Brazil. Did you have any problems on your return trip to Brazil?
Poucolouco
07-16-08, 14:45
I have never had to do this. I think he meant that you have to produce it when you exit the country. On one of my trips I lost the entry card. I was expecting trouble at the airport, but the guy just waved me through. This doesn't necessarily mean that this will always happen.
LI once lost the entry/exit card and they just made me fill out a new form before I could get through passport control. I just checked my card from entry last week and noticed that they did not retain the white original copy of the document.
They were scanning all carry on baggage at the arrival area before passport control. I'm curious what they are looking for at this location because it is before you have all your checked bags and they did not select anyone for further baggage search at this point.
I though that a fine was imposed, for losing the entry card, upon leaving Brazil. Did you have any problems on your return trip to Brazil?I have seen many travelers not have their entry/exit card with them when they try to exit. They just fill out a new one, no fine. You do not need to go to any other police other than the ones at departure control (they are police at immigration), I think that is what the guy ment.
Today, the passports are scanned and the data on your arrival and departure is stored in the computer, the entry/exit card would be more for when you are traveling around inside brasil.
On a side note. I am pissed at the police. My friend and I were stopped by the police coming from Nova Iguaçu to Rio on Linha Vermellho about 2PM. She has Sao Paulo plates and that is why they stopped us (drug traffic route). They got us out, searched all the things in the car, and on my person. I had a cell phone and R$100 in one pocket, he returned them. He found about R$300 in one small bag in my backpack, he returned it. He did not look in my wallet. Now the part that pisses me off. I spent about a year getting my permanent visa and my CIE/RNE card. He did not even ask for them! I spent so much time and effort to get one and carry it and a certified copy of it in case I was ever stopped. Not even asked for it.. but seriosly, they were polite, did not ask or take any money and sent us on our way, no hassle. Just took about 5 minutes. I was so prepared, and then disapointed.
El Austriaco
07-16-08, 16:05
My friend and I were stopped by the police coming from Nova Iguaçu to Rio on Linha Vermellho about 2PM. She has Sao Paulo plates and that is why they stopped us (drug traffic route). They got us out, searched all the things in the car, and on my person. I had a cell phone and R$100 in one pocket, he returned them. He found about R$300 in one small bag in my backpack, he returned it. He did not look in my wallet. Now the part that pisses me off. I spent about a year getting my permanent visa and my CIE/RNE card. He did not even ask for them! I spent so much time and effort to get one and carry it and a certified copy of it in case I was ever stopped. Not even asked for it.. but seriosly, they were polite, did not ask or take any money and sent us on our way, no hassle.
If you get stopped by police at a drug checkpoint, drugs seems to be the only thing they are concerned about, nothing else.
From the way you describe it, everything was done out in the open, very legally, just the way it happened to me one time, in São Conrado in Zona Sul (coming from Barra in cab in the early morning hours of a Saturday). They didn't check my ID (passport, entry card), either, and as soon as they determined we didn't have any drugs on us, they let us go on our way without hassles.
I've traveled on the Linha Vermelha between Rio and Nova Iguaçú (and beyond) many times, both by public bus and car, and I've never been stopped there, but it can really happen anywhere at any time. Considering the size of drug trafficking operations in the Rio MA, pretty much anywhere can be considered a drug trafficking route these days (of course, given the vicinity of a number of high-profile favelas, Linha Vermelha as well as Linha Amarela are especially popular).
EA
I though that a fine was imposed, for losing the entry card, upon leaving Brazil. Did you have any problems on your return trip to Brazil?
No, none whatsoever.
Excuse my ignorance, but what are the Linha Vermelha and Linha Amarela? (I never drive in or around Rio.)
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