Brazil or Bust!!!

[+ Axiom2001]

For my birthday present to self, I plan to travel. Currently, I am thinking about Brazil, Thailand, Italy, or Amsterdam and other European cities/towns.... I seriously think I will venture to the former of these listings. You "guys" seemingly favorite place.

 

I'd like to know what are the best months to go? I don't want to go during their winter or rainy season or during Carnival. (preferably low season and when is that?

 

What hotels should I consider? (I haven't been to a sauna in many a year, but from what I have read here--more than likely I'll break down my reserve and shyness and go.) Should I engage the services of a tour guide, or go on a tour with flexible arrangements in flying? (That means I could return when I desired-- not with the group.)

 

Next, I am not fluent in Spanish or Portugese--I know no other language except for English. Suggestions, please!!

 

Write anything else which you deem helpful. (I plan to revisit this site and procure all of the information written thus far. Thanks!

[trilingual]

>I'd like to know what are the best months to go? I don't

>want to go during their winter or rainy season or during

>Carnival. (preferably low season and when is that?

 

Best months depend on where you want to go. Brazil is a huge country (the size of the U.S., minus Alaska) so climates vary region-by-region. The Footprint series "Brazil Handbook" has information about weather in the various regions. Except in the higher places in southern Brazil, winter is very mild. Temperatures in the 70's - 80's (a really cold day is in the 60's) are typical of Rio in the winter. The rainy season has ended by then; in Rio the rainy time is from about March through May.

 

Throughout Brazil, the high season runs from December through Carnival. In addition, there are two mini-"high seasons" during Holy Week and the month of July, which is a school holiday period.

 

>What hotels should I consider? (I haven't been to a sauna in

>many a year, but from what I have read here--more than

>likely I'll break down my reserve and shyness and go.)

>Should I engage the services of a tour guide, or go on a

>tour with flexible arrangements in flying? (That means I

>could return when I desired-- not with the group.)

 

Hotels have been discussed in pretty extensive depth on this bulletin board. You should be able to pick one from the various hotels mentioned. It'll really depend on how much you want to spend and the degree of luxe you want. Going with a tour, with flexible arrangements, could be a good idea for a first-timer. That'll at least ensure you'll get an English language city tour and perhaps some other interesting excursions. You could also hire an individual guide. The semi-world-famous Ernani (see the reviews section) not only escorts, he can be a guide, too.

 

>

>Next, I am not fluent in Spanish or Portugese--I know no

>other language except for English. Suggestions, please!!

 

For a first visit, it's probably a good idea to stick to Rio, São Paulo and other major tourist centers. You'll certainly find English-speaking staff at most hotel desks (except perhaps the cheapest ones) and English-speaking guides. In Rio and São Paulo you shouldn't have problems at the saunas. As other writers have pointed out, they haven't had any problems even if they don't speak the language, and most of the guys know a few basic words. If you need something more complicated, they usually know who else in the crowd speaks good English who can translate.

[Guest Verde]

I suggest you familiarize yourself with Brazil by reading up all the guidebooks (Lonely Planet and Footprints are good) and any info available in the net. I think it's a good idea to go there primarily as a tourist and do what ordinary tourists do (the whole country is a great destination in its own right). Then when you're more comfortable with yourself and if you find the place and people to your liking you do some exploring on your own. Depending on your personality, not knowing the language can be intimidating especially if you find yourself in some tight situations. If you have time, learn some basic Brazilian Portuguese. From my personal experience, I had fun practicing the language with the boys who were all too eager and happy to teach me especially the naughty words and phrases. Also, take extra precautions especially in big cities like Rio, Sao Paulo and Salvador. Go with someone or join a small group of similar minded individuals, if you're not the solo traveller type.

[+ Axiom2001]

Thanks men for your invaluable advice; !From what you advised--I shall definitely utilize. I'm tremendously excited and will begin making plans for this adventure.

[CT Dick]

Gr8 info

 

I've posted this before, but I found this terrific site for Rio info:

 

http://ipanema.com/

 

I can't wait for my first visit this summer.}>

 

Dick

[+ Axiom2001]

RE: Gr8 info

 

Thanks, CT Dick-- I went to this fabulous site today. After viewing certain sections, I have decided on my dates, and now I am working on getting a reasonable flight out of LA or Miami. I plan to stay in one of the hotels recommended by some of our fellow respondents-- take tours (hope to connect with Ernani whom I hope to see when he comes to the States next week) and go from there and anticipate an experience that I shall always remember.

 

I, too, cannot wait! Again, thanks for your advice. Applause to the other respondents, too, All of you have been jewels.