Direct Flights to Rio are commonly only available from Houston, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, & Atlanta. Mostly likely you will want to fly into Sao Paulo (GRU) and take the short 45min flight to Rio (SDU, or GIG) Make sure to recheck your bags after passing customs, if you transfer via Sao Paulo
For the most part yes, and depends on the neighborhoods. We recommend spending your time in Lagoa, Ipanema, Leblon, Jardim Botanico, as those are touristy and safer. We recommend taking Ubers everywhere you go, especially at night. As with traveling anywhere internationally, be aware of your surroundings. Do not walk around with your iPhone out for an extended period of time in public, or wear expensive jewelry. Be mindful of your belongings on the beach, and do not go to the beach late at night. The sunset on Ipanema beach is magical and we highly recommend walking the beach just before sun sets!
If you have a passport from the US or the EU, you don't need a visa! Check out the requirements or reach out to us if you have passports from other locations.
Leblon is fantastic for nightlife and restaurants - it's the wealthier neighborhood full of young people. Ipanema is home to the most iconic beach in Rio, and includes some great bars. It's right near the beach and has great central location to all the other neighborhoods Lapa is great for a more alternative crowd, looking for great live music, artwork, and historic architecture. Lapa is near the downtown and the best place to catch Samba / Bossa Nova music at night. Lapa is full of energy, and always busy at night Santa Teresa is tucked away in the hills, and super beautiful. It hosts colonial architecture and history, and has some great bars - our favorite is Explorer Bar, Bar do Mineiro
We are hosting a Welcome party on Thursday night at a bar on Ipanema beach, so people are welcome to come anytime before then. The main event is Saturday at 3PM
If you're willing to go further from Rio and have some more time, we HIGHLY recommend the region of Bahia in the NorthEast of Brazil. Our favorite towns are: Trancoso & Caraiva. These are a bit off the map, and require a rental car, but also worth the trip.
The cost of living in Rio is very inexpensive! Ubers are $5-$10, dinner for two around $30 USD. Once you're there, you'll be shocked at how cheap everything is.