A Group Sauna Tour to Rio in May

[Guest dreynsol]

I read about the interest on another site and I had agreed to help organize it for those interested.

 

But, I think it would be a great opportunity for first-time travelers, as well as, veterans that would like to meet up at a common time. I know I've met some great friends over the years, but our schedules haven't seemed to work out.

 

So, this should give you plenty of time to plan ahead. <img src='flasharea/resources/images/smile.jpg'>

 

And, the only reason I volunteered is because I'd like to think we have a little more clout with the hotels, drivers, and tour guides due to the business we've booked through them over the years, and the relationships we've developed. Although, with these days of unpredictable currency exchange rates and Brazilian inflation, it still can be challenging.

 

So, we chose some dates where there seems to be a good bit of empty airline seats, the hotels should be hungry for business, and the weather should be great in Rio. And, also considering those who might not want to commit to a longer trip for budget reasons.

 

The departure date is May 3, 2011, and the return date is May 12, 2011, or departing on a Tuesday and returning on a week after on a Thurday. Mid-week is actually the least expensive days to fly.

 

I personally, did not get to meet with Junior of Pointe 202 and Monique of 117, but a friend that knows both of them very well, has agreed to talk to them. Our affiliate is meeting with the Hotel Atlantico next week. But, I'm sure all are going to ask how many are coming.

 

So far, we have half a dozen that have committed, but if there's any interest at all, please email me at: info@gaytravelbrazil.com so we can approach them with the largest number possible. Or, you can also post here with additional questions.

 

I hope to work with TotallyOz and Daddy to create an advertisement that should generate more interest as well.

 

And, this is not a "for profit" endeavour, although some options may be offered. I think LurkerSpeaks would agree that we were even a bit less than the least expensive website we were able to find on agoda.com

 

But, I need to know the interest level, so we can better negotiate the trip. So please email me at: info@gaytravelbrazil.com, if you're interested at all. And, we can also arrange a payment plan over the next few months so you're not hit with a big bill once you arrive.

 

If you've ever read TomCal's posts or the adventures of TotallyOz <img src='flasharea/resources/images/smile.jpg'> and yearned to be there, I sincerely think this would be your best opportunity.

 

- Drey

[+ glutes]

Do we have to book through you hotels and airline tickets?

[EZEtoGRU]

I might be interested but I would want to make my own flight and hotel arrangements.

[+ glutes]

I am with EZE to GRU, I am stuck [and benefiting] through various rewards programs.

Dreynsol, please tell.

[EZEtoGRU]

Drey,

Any comments on how this might work for those of us wanting to make our own travel arrangements. Have you gotten much interest? I am assuming maybe not given the limited number of posts on this thread. Let us know.

[LurkerSpeaks]

There have been more postings on this topic over at MER and the gaytravelbrazil website..It appears to be about 6-8 confirmed and more interested but still unconfirmed..

[+ Axiom2001]

There have been more postings on this topic over at MER and the gaytravelbrazil website..It appears to be about 6-8 confirmed and more interested but still unconfirmed..

 

Lurkerspeaks, I do love your avatar!!! - Who is he?

[LurkerSpeaks]

That picture is one I took on my first visit to Rio back in November 2008. He was a boy from Meio Mundo who I had the pleasure to meet and "entertain" back at my hotel. I snapped the picture as he slept peacefully.

[Guest dreynsol]

Sorry guys for the lapse, it's a busy time of the year for me.

 

No, you don't have to book anything through us really. And actually it's turning out to be practically impossible to get everyone on the same plane it seems. The flight that seems to be working out the best is on an American Airlines flight leaving out of DFW the night before. DFW is centrally located though.

 

It would be nice if you joined the group at the same hotel only because it would help with the numbers and our group discount, but not required.

 

After the first round of discussions, the hotels we're considering are coming in at between US$ 103 and US$ 115 per night, and including taxes, depending on the hotel. Not a bad price though, considering prices are likely to increase next year.

 

The only other costs involved might be sharing the cost of one of our English-speaking guides at the saunas, group transporation, and any group tours.

 

Other than that, you're more than welcome to come down and join us.

 

Please let us know if you'd like to join the group at the saunas though, since we're hoping it qualifies us for a discount there as well.

 

And yes, EZEtoGRU, so far we have over a dozen confirmed or interested. And, we really won't start promoting it until January.

 

Thanks,

 

- Drey

[EZEtoGRU]

Thanks for the response Drey. I am a seasoned Brazil traveller and I speak nearly fluent Portuguese so I am able to fend for myself in terms of flights, hotels, garotos, and language. In general I prefer SP to RJ so I would not really want to go to Rio for such an extended period. Having said that, it would be fun to meet up with the group at the Sauna or a restaurant some day or evening. I will monitor developments regarding the trip from afar and stay in touch with 1-2 of the travellers regarding the schedule. I may pop in on my way to or from Sao Paulo. Thanks for taking the initiative to organize such an event. It will be a great experience and unique option for those less experienced regarding Brazil travel.