Rio de Janeiro, August 2025

[+ José Soplanucas]

I started my slow traveling experience in Rio. I am here since last Monday. As my priority this time is not the saunas, I rented an apartment in Recreio dos Bandeirantes, with a nice beachfront balcony. I cannot recommend this neighborhood more for those looking for tranquility. It is far away from the Copa and Ipanema party and overcrowded atmosphere. Even better, my rent is in the strip between Posto 12 and Pedra da Macumba, where the main avenue runs one block away from the beach. The front of the building opens to the Avenue, the back opens to a ciclovia with no cars traffic. It is an area full of surfers with a neo hippie vive, and plenty of small cafes and bars, and everything much more affordable than the most popular and touristic areas.

Of course, if you are looking to spend your time in Point, 117 and Meio Mundo, you will have more than one hour of Uber to get to your destination, and then to return. You can improve this time a little by avoiding the worst of rush traffic and taking your Uber to Jardim Oceanico and then the metro, but I have not yet tried this trick. The one sauna that is closer is Casa Grande Boite, the infamous Bangu's place, but it would also be a 45' ride.

In general, this week seemed to be plenty of garotos in the saunas, with a shortage of clients. I visited 117 last Tuesday and got a OK programa. I will not go again in this trip, when I was close it was OK visiting even if I am not a fan, but now it is definitely not worthy the long ride. On Wednesday I went to 202 and, as usual, had an amazing time, with a programa who still has me mouthwatering. I could have hire more than one garoto, the ambience was generous. I went again yesterday, Friday, but for a birthday party. I was not looking for a programa, but the boys were eagerly available.

On Wednesday, when I was at the bar resuscitating after my programa, I made acquaintance with a local client. When I told him that I was planning to go to Bangu, he opened his eyes like two fried eggs, and recommended me not to go by myself. Then, on Thursday at my place, I was hanging out with one of my regulars. When I asked him about the place, he commented that it was full of "bandidinhos" with their ankle trackers on. But of course, I do like bandidinhos. Fortunately, a friend from Gayguides provided me with the connections to find a partner for the expedition. This partner, an expat, loves the place. So I will share my impressions after our expedition tomorrow, but it seems it may be so good that Point may have competition as the number one on my heart.

I will be in Rio until September 4th. Do not expect detailed reports as in the past, but I will share some info now and then. If anyone is around, hit me up with a DM.

[seajoc]

That's a beautiful area to stay! It's a bit a trek to Ipanema or Copacabana, but close to Abrico which is an awesome (nude) beach and 'fun'.

[+ José Soplanucas]

1 hour ago, seajoc said:

That's a beautiful area to stay! It's a bit a trek to Ipanema or Copacabana, but close to Abrico which is an awesome (nude) beach and 'fun'.

Yep, I've been there several times but I am not a fan of nudist beaches. The only bodies I like to see naked are the ones I want. 

[+ Lucky]

@José Soplanucas...glad you can enjoy the month of August in Brazil. It's one of my favorite months to visit. I might be there now except that Business Class fares have gone up so much. So, please, do report on the trip.

[+ José Soplanucas]

2 hours ago, Lucky said:

@José Soplanucas...glad you can enjoy the month of August in Brazil. It's one of my favorite months to visit. I might be there now except that Business Class fares have gone up so much. So, please, do report on the trip.

Do not fly business! The economy plus service is not that bad. It would be great an August reunion at Point! 

[+ Lucky]

Yes, I have convinced myself that Economy Plus will be the road to take. I once flew the 12 1//2 hour flight from SDU to LAX in the very last row of economy, Luckily, I slept 7 hours. But never again!

Business Class to Rio is about $8000. Although I just canceled the trip, Business Class to Bangkok was only $4450!

[+ José Soplanucas]

38 minutes ago, Lucky said:

Yes, I have convinced myself that Economy Plus will be the road to take. I once flew the 12 1//2 hour flight from SDU to LAX in the very last row of economy, Luckily, I slept 7 hours. But never again!

Business Class to Rio is about $8000. Although I just canceled the trip, Business Class to Bangkok was only $4450!

Yep, tickets are crazy. But get your economy plus seat and come over. The boys have to pay their rent these days, and this is a clients market.

[+ José Soplanucas]

Last night I had a first approach to the infamous Bangu sauna. The place looks filthy and falling in pieces (much worst than any other similar establishment I've been to), and I LOVED IT. The boys I saw were mostly favela hotties, from thin to soccer athletic perfect bodies, and all very nice and friendly. I did not perceive any dangers.

Unfortunately it was rainy and cold. The friend who went with me told me that usually there are three times the boys we had last night. I would say that perhaps there were 15 boys available, all of them over dressed because of the cold weather. We were also uncomfortably cold, so we left after about 90 minutes. I did not explore the rooms areas and stayed the entire time at the main floor, a wide and open space with a bar, a kitchen, tables, chairs, a pool table, and a pool.

I liked the boys' approaching style. They were not at al aggressive as their colleagues at 202 and 117. They would look for making eyes contact and would only approach if you sustained their sight. Some of them were extremely tempting. I talked to one of them who also was a top, and I also liked that once it was clear we were not a match, he did not keep insisting on negotiating a programa as they do inmate other saunas.

One con I could see is traveling there in Uber. Two drivers canceled when I was trying to go there, three when I was trying to leave. The issue is that the establishment is right at the boundary of a favela with bad fame, and sometimes the drivers avoid the area.

I liked a lot the atmosphere and several of the boys and will be back with better weather. Once I complete a full visit, I will write a full report

[+ José Soplanucas]

On 8/10/2025 at 1:50 PM, Lucky said:

Yes, I have convinced myself that Economy Plus will be the road to take. I once flew the 12 1//2 hour flight from SDU to LAX in the very last row of economy, Luckily, I slept 7 hours. But never again!

Business Class to Rio is about $8000. Although I just canceled the trip, Business Class to Bangkok was only $4450!

@Lucky, did you get your tickets? A little bird told me that next week we may have @pauleiro visiting here. We may have a mini forum reunion at Point.

[+ Lucky]

No, my tickets are refunded.

[KevinFL]

On 8/9/2025 at 1:37 PM, José Soplanucas said:

 

I started my slow traveling experience in Rio. I am here since last Monday. As my priority this time is not the saunas, I rented an apartment in Recreio dos Bandeirantes, with a nice beachfront balcony. I cannot recommend this neighborhood more for those looking for tranquility. It is far away from the Copa and Ipanema party and overcrowded atmosphere. Even better, my rent is in the strip between Posto 12 and Pedra da Macumba, where the main avenue runs one block away from the beach. The front of the building opens to the Avenue, the back opens to a ciclovia with no cars traffic. It is an area full of surfers with a neo hippie vive, and plenty of small cafes and bars, and everything much more affordable than the most popular and touristic areas.

Of course, if you are looking to spend your time in Point, 117 and Meio Mundo, you will have more than one hour of Uber to get to your destination, and then to return. You can improve this time a little by avoiding the worst of rush traffic and taking your Uber to Jardim Oceanico and then the metro, but I have not yet tried this trick. The one sauna that is closer is Casa Grande Boite, the infamous Bangu's place, but it would also be a 45' ride.

In general, this week seemed to be plenty of garotos in the saunas, with a shortage of clients. I visited 117 last Tuesday and got a OK programa. I will not go again in this trip, when I was close it was OK visiting even if I am not a fan, but now it is definitely not worthy the long ride. On Wednesday I went to 202 and, as usual, had an amazing time, with a programa who still has me mouthwatering. I could have hire more than one garoto, the ambience was generous. I went again yesterday, Friday, but for a birthday party. I was not looking for a programa, but the boys were eagerly available.

On Wednesday, when I was at the bar resuscitating after my programa, I made acquaintance with a local client. When I told him that I was planning to go to Bangu, he opened his eyes like two fried eggs, and recommended me not to go by myself. Then, on Thursday at my place, I was hanging out with one of my regulars. When I asked him about the place, he commented that it was full of "bandidinhos" with their ankle trackers on. But of course, I do like bandidinhos. Fortunately, a friend from Gayguides provided me with the connections to find a partner for the expedition. This partner, an expat, loves the place. So I will share my impressions after our expedition tomorrow, but it seems it may be so good that Point may have competition as the number one on my heart.

I will be in Rio until September 4th. Do not expect detailed reports as in the past, but I will share some info now and then. If anyone is around, hit me up with a DM.

I had an amazing time at 117 on Tuesday night August 12. The place was packed with boys that certainly outnumbered the clients. Tuesday truly is still the night to go as I have found over the last couple years that the weekends can be hit or miss for a variety of reasons it seems.

Muscle abounds at 117 for those that prefer their men muscular and built.  I stayed in Barra de Tjiuca this time for a change and as mentioned above for those that prefer the subway the Jardim Oceanico station is at the end of the line right there in Barra. There are a few good hotels on the beach near it and the line runs right into Copacabana for 202 and to Gloria station for 117 for very easy access.  Uber is so cheap and reliable though that it often makes sense to stick with it versus saving pennies on the subway.  I'll be back soon.

Edited August 22 by KevinFL

[BoyGeorgeandMarilyn]

5 hours ago, KevinFL said:

I had an amazing time at 117 on Tuesday night August 12. The place was packed with boys that certainly outnumbered the clients. Tuesday truly is still the night to go as I have found over the last couple years that the weekends can be hit or miss for a variety of reasons it seems.

Muscle abounds at 117 for those that prefer their men muscular and built.  I stayed in Barra de Tjiuca this time for a change and as mentioned above for those that prefer the subway the Jardim Oceanico station is at the end of the line right there in Barra. There are a few good hotels on the beach near it and the line runs right into Copacabana for 202 and to Gloria station for 117 for very easy access.  Uber is so cheap and reliable though that it often makes sense to stick with it versus saving pennies on the subway.  I'll be back soon.

Price of Providers?

[Alfstoria]

19 hours ago, KevinFL said:

I had an amazing time at 117 on Tuesday night August 12. The place was packed with boys that certainly outnumbered the clients. Tuesday truly is still the night to go as I have found over the last couple years that the weekends can be hit or miss for a variety of reasons it seems.

Muscle abounds at 117 for those that prefer their men muscular and built.  I stayed in Barra de Tjiuca this time for a change and as mentioned above for those that prefer the subway the Jardim Oceanico station is at the end of the line right there in Barra. There are a few good hotels on the beach near it and the line runs right into Copacabana for 202 and to Gloria station for 117 for very easy access.  Uber is so cheap and reliable though that it often makes sense to stick with it versus saving pennies on the subway.  I'll be back soon. o

Thanks for the report. I can’t wait for November to come back. I’m a fan of brazil Uber prices — they’re way cheaper than my subway ride — But I’ve been getting stuck in so much traffic that I’ll start taking the metro to Gloria station. I’m a bit hesitant since I carry cash. but last time I was stuck in a traffic jam for 45 minutes in an Uber from Copacabana to 117. which was so annoying. So when I visit those places in heavy traffic, I won’t have any other choice but to take the metro.

[BoyGeorgeandMarilyn]

3 hours ago, Alfstoria said:

Thanks for the report. I can’t wait for November to come back. I’m a fan of brazil Uber prices — they’re way cheaper than my subway ride — But I’ve been getting stuck in so much traffic that I’ll start taking the metro to Gloria station. I’m a bit hesitant since I carry cash. but last time I was stuck in a traffic jam for 45 minutes in an Uber from Copacabana to 117. which was so annoying. So when I visit those places in heavy traffic, I won’t have any other choice but to take the metro.

Rates for sex in Sauna 117?

[+ SirBillybob]

4 hours ago, Alfstoria said:

 I’m a fan of brazil Uber prices — they’re way cheaper than my subway ride 

—-

???

 

[+ SirBillybob]

My last and only time taking Uber from Copanema to accommodations in Glória was, similarly, a long and delayed trek in busy traffic. I felt badly for the driver and tipped generously because their payment algorithm I believe rests on distance and time, with ride duration not heavily reflected in their earnings. The total cost was not that much anyway but the ride too long. I have over the years, other than that one time, used the Metro and ride for free with trains running frequently. 

Edited August 23 by SirBillybob

[+ SirBillybob]

1 hour ago, BoyGeorgeandMarilyn said:

Rates for sex in Sauna 117?

2-10 or ⭐️—⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[KevinFL]

3 hours ago, SirBillybob said:

My last and only time taking Uber from Copanema to accommodations in Glória was, similarly, a long and delayed trek in busy traffic. I felt badly for the driver and tipped generously because their payment algorithm I believe rests on distance and time, with ride duration not heavily reflected in their earnings. The total cost was not that much anyway but the ride too long. I have over the years, other than that one time, used the Metro and ride for free with trains running frequently. 

I'm surprised by the comments on Uber in Rio. Flights arriving in the morning can be a nightmare of a longer ride if landing in GIG airport and making the Uber/taxi ride to the beaches during the weekday morning. It's much better for Saturday and Sunday arrivals. I'm in Brazil very often during the year and I have seldom had delays using Uber to get around town. For some that maybe have had an issue once or twice and now are exclusively using the Metro it may have been just bad timing for that journey. If at night especially getting around town I'm feeling much better in an Uber than on a Metro in Rio. I'm so grateful that it's so affordable and I've never had an issue with drivers with the exception of watching some getting super stressed in that morning traffic from GIG during rush hours. I definitely tip generously as SirBillybob stated above!

[+ José Soplanucas]

1 hour ago, KevinFL said:

I'm surprised by the comments on Uber in Rio. Flights arriving in the morning can be a nightmare of a longer ride if landing in GIG airport and making the Uber/taxi ride to the beaches during the weekday morning. It's much better for Saturday and Sunday arrivals. I'm in Brazil very often during the year and I have seldom had delays using Uber to get around town. For some that maybe have had an issue once or twice and now are exclusively using the Metro it may have been just bad timing for that journey. If at night especially getting around town I'm feeling much better in an Uber than on a Metro in Rio. I'm so grateful that it's so affordable and I've never had an issue with drivers with the exception of watching some getting super stressed in that morning traffic from GIG during rush hours. I definitely tip generously as SirBillybob stated above!

I always take Uber from and to the airport. I think we were talking about the trips you take everyday, once you are settled in your base. 

Yes, I also do love Uber's affordability and comfort and I am taking it all the time. However, Metro does have an advantage if you want to save time during the rush hours. As you mention, traffic in Rio can add long minutes to your trips and sometimes I am very horny and want to be in the sauna ASAP. 

[+ SirBillybob]

I am sure Uber is a good bet most of the time for folks that prefer to use that mode of transport. It’s also very much in demand at SDU, the last time I looked a queue of about 80 arriving passengers waiting. I hop on the Metro and VLT to and from, as it’s modern, free, reliable, fast and convenient. For everyday use there’s always a station near my digs and usually a station at or close to destinations. Metro and VLT to and from the rodoviária for regional bus travel.

My cellular roaming package is based on a flat rate 00:00-23:59 ET use-it-or-lose-it basis and simply activating it on a given day for a single use Uber hail can run much more than the ride itself. Where I don’t draw such a hard line is activating cellular to help a hot visitor make a smooth street address landing and usher them in to reception. 

I think it’s a good idea as well to be familiar with 'lower brow' transport given that anybody might find themselves stranded without a phone. Also, as a senior one can get around town without cash or debit/credit card.

Edited August 24 by SirBillybob

[BoyGeorgeandMarilyn]

11 hours ago, SirBillybob said:

2-10 or ⭐️—⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price for a session with them?

[KevinFL]

11 hours ago, SirBillybob said:

I am sure Uber is a good bet most of the time for folks that prefer to use that mode of transport. It’s also very much in demand at SDU, the last time I looked a queue of about 80 arriving passengers waiting. I hop on the Metro and VLT to and from, as it’s modern, free, reliable, fast and convenient. For everyday use there’s always a station near my digs and usually a station at or close to destinations. Metro and VLT to and from the rodoviária for regional bus travel.

My cellular roaming package is based on a flat rate 00:00-23:59 ET use-it-or-lose-it basis and simply activating it on a given day for a single use Uber hail can run much more than the ride itself. Where I don’t draw such a hard line is activating cellular to help a hot visitor make a smooth street address landing and usher them in to reception. 

I think it’s a good idea as well to be familiar with 'lower brow' transport given that anybody might find themselves stranded without a phone. Also, as a senior one can get around town without cash or debit/credit card.

I suppose it really does depend on where you are staying and access to the Metro and VLT. I've been very fortunate with great SIM's for usage in Rio or SP so I haven't really thought about not having phone access. I just feel the Metro is not the safest at night as I observed 2 separate really disturbing issues a few years ago when I was last on it at night. I just think for new visitors that may already be a little nervous based on things they have been told using Uber at night is smart. 

[+ SirBillybob]

1 hour ago, KevinFL said:

I suppose it really does depend on where you are staying and access to the Metro and VLT. I've been very fortunate with great SIM's for usage in Rio or SP so I haven't really thought about not having phone access. I just feel the Metro is not the safest at night as I observed 2 separate really disturbing issues a few years ago when I was last on it at night. I just think for new visitors that may already be a little nervous based on things they have been told using Uber at night is smart. 

It’s not unlike my random slow and delayed ride experience, along with not witnessing anything untoward on hundreds of runs using the alternative. I haven’t had a trip’s local SIM chip bill that didn’t exceed cumulative but comfortably restrained roaming charges options, experimenting one or the other. My first late night Uber run GIG to town was nerve wracking as it turns out the route chosen by the driver was through what appeared to be a very dodgy neighbourhood. The trip following I stayed in the airport hotel instead. Now when rarely arriving after midnight at GIG I take Uber at that hour because carjacking worries have abated and the current curated passenger-congested pick-up zone conveys the sense of safety in numbers all in it together. We all have to integrate the stats and the anecdotal; even then it’s WYSIATI, Human Factors 101. Influencing others also anchors our choices, yet the only right choice is the one already executed without mishap.

Edited August 24 by SirBillybob

[KevinFL]

12 hours ago, SirBillybob said:

It’s not unlike my random slow and delayed ride experience, along with not witnessing anything untoward on hundreds of runs using the alternative. I haven’t had a trip’s local SIM chip bill that didn’t exceed cumulative but comfortably restrained roaming charges options, experimenting one or the other. My first late night Uber run GIG to town was nerve wracking as it turns out the route chosen by the driver was through what appeared to be a very dodgy neighbourhood. The trip following I stayed in the airport hotel instead. Now when rarely arriving after midnight at GIG I take Uber at that hour because carjacking worries have abated and the current curated passenger-congested pick-up zone conveys the sense of safety in numbers all in it together. We all have to integrate the stats and the anecdotal; even then it’s WYSIATI, Human Factors 101. Influencing others also anchors our choices, yet the only right choice is the one already executed without mishap.

Exactly. That's why I Uber.

[+ José Soplanucas]

New report:

Down and Dirty at Boite Casa Grande