FAQs | PMQs

Question

Why Búzios?

Answer

Búzios is a picturesque coastal town in Brazil, originally a small fishing village. We have been twice and fell in love with its charm, relaxed welcoming vibe and thought that its proximity to Rio would make it an ideal location for inviting friends and family to gather. It is often chosen as a travel destination for several compelling reasons: 1. **Stunning Beaches**: Búzios boasts numerous beautiful beaches, each with its unique charm. From the vibrant, bustling shores of Praia da Ferradura to the more tranquil and secluded Praia de Geribá, there's a beach for every taste. 2. **Charming Atmosphere**: The town has a laid-back, sophisticated vibe with a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. Its cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and lively restaurants create an inviting atmosphere. 3. **Great for Watersports**: The clear waters and consistent waves make Búzios an excellent spot for surfing, diving, and snorkeling. The area is known for its ideal conditions for various water activities. 4. **Diverse Cuisine**: The local cuisine is a highlight, with a range of restaurants offering fresh seafood and international dishes. The town’s dining scene caters to diverse tastes, from casual beachside eateries to upscale dining. 5. **Cultural Richness**: Búzios has a vibrant cultural scene with influences from its history as a fishing village and its development as a tourist hotspot. This blend is reflected in local festivals, art, and music. 6. **Accessibility**: Located about 170 kilometers (105 miles) from Rio de Janeiro, Búzios is relatively easy to reach and serves as a convenient getaway from the city. 7. **Romantic Getaway**: Its scenic beauty and intimate setting make Búzios a popular choice for couples looking for a romantic retreat. Overall, Búzios offers a combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and recreational opportunities that make it a favored destination for travelers.

Question

What is weather like?

Answer

In April, Búzios experiences mild and pleasant weather, making it a great time to visit. (Think end of summer in a US beach town) Here's a general overview of what you can expect: - Temperature: Average daytime temperatures typically range from about 23°C to 28°C (73°F to 82°F). Nights are cooler but still comfortable, with temperatures usually between 18°C and 22°C (64°F to 72° - Humidity: The humidity levels can be relatively high, but the coastal breeze helps to keep it comfortable. - Sea Temperature: The water temperature is warm and inviting, generally around 24°C to 26°C (75°F to 79°F), making it ideal for swimming and other water activities. Overall, April is a great month to visit Búzios if you enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season.

Question

Are there any other events that I should know about around the wedding?

Answer

Yes! We will have a welcome party on Friday night the 11th, and a farewell event on Sunday the 13th. We recommend arranging a flight that lands on Thursday night or Friday morning and staying in Búzios until Monday. After that stay a few more days to relax and see the town or head to Río for your own adventure!

Question

Once we are in Buzios is it easy to get around?

Answer

UBER is widely available in Rio and Búzios and is very affordable. Most rides in Búzios cost only R$15 ($3 USD). If you know how to drive a manual car you can rent a Dune buggy by the day and drive it on the roads in Búzios. It's fun and convenient for beach hopping.

Question

How do I get to Búzios from the US?

Answer

To get to Búzios, Brazil, from the United States, you’ll generally follow these steps: 1. Fly to Rio de Janeiro: Búzios is about 105 miles (170 kilometers) from Rio de Janeiro. The most common route is to fly into Rio’s main airport, Galeão International Airport (GIG), or Santos Dumont Airport (SDU), which handles domestic flights and some international arrivals. 2. Travel from Rio de Janeiro to Búzios: (There are several options.) - UBER: This is by far the easiest way to get to Búzios. It’s a 2-3 hr ride. Simply order an uber once you land. Uber's cost around R$300- 400.00 ($60-75 USD). - Private Transfer: For convenience, you can arrange a private transfer or shuttle service in advance. Shuttles are roughly $30 and private transfers vary and will likely run between $100-120 for a private car. - By Bus: Several bus companies operate services from Rio de Janeiro to Búzios. The journey typically takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Buses depart from the Airports and the main bus terminal (Rodoviária Novo Rio) in Rio de Janeiro. - By Car: You can rent a car in Rio and drive to Búzios. The drive is straightforward, taking about 2.5 to 3 hours. Follow BR-101 and then BR-493 to the RJ-102 road that leads to Búzios. (If you are not from Brazil we do not recommend driving as the signs are not in English and driving in Brazil is very different than in the US.

Question

When should I buy a plane ticket?

Answer

For the best deals on plane tickets to Brazil, it's generally advisable to book your flights about 2 to 6 months in advance. Prices tend to be lower if you purchase well ahead of time, rather than waiting until the last minute. But buying too early will prevent you from seeing all of the flights available which may not be listed until 4-6 months in advance. Low Season (April to November, excluding major holidays): Airfare can be cheaper during this period. Look for deals and be flexible with your travel dates to take advantage of lower prices. For example, sometimes flying a night earlier or later can save you $100+ if you have that flexibility. Also, keep an eye on fare comparison websites (Kayak.com & Hopper.com) and sign up for fare alerts to monitor price changes and snag deals as soon as they become available.

Question

What is a good price for a plane ticket from the US?

Answer

Plane tickets generally run between $650 and $1,200 to Brazil depending on when you buy, the time of year you are flying, and whether or not you take a direct flight. April is the beginning of the off-season so you should be able to find affordable flights. We have gotten direct flights for $750. If you don't mind a layover you can save more. if you can find a direct flight between $700-800 buy immediately that's a good deal!

Question

What is the currency in Brazil?

Answer

The currency in Brazil is the Brazilian Real (BRL). Here are a few tips regarding currency and money management in Brazil: 1. **Exchange Rates**: Monitor the exchange rates before you travel so you have a sense of how much things will cost. Exchange rates can fluctuate, so getting a good rate can save you money. Currently, the exchange rate is 1USD= 5.62 REAL. So if you ordered a dinner for two for R$300 it would be $53.38 USD. 2. **Currency Exchange**: You can exchange your currency for Brazilian Real at banks, exchange bureaus, and sometimes at airports. It’s often a good idea to have some local currency on hand for immediate expenses upon arrival. 3. **ATMs and Credit Cards**: ATMs are widely available in Brazil, and credit cards are commonly accepted in most places. Check with your Bank, but most major Credit cards are accepted in Buzios and Río and will automatically convert your purchase into USD on your statement using the current exchange rate without additional charges. But check with your bank first. 4. **Costs**: Brazil can be relatively affordable compared to some other tourist destinations, but costs can vary significantly by region and type of activity. Overall, while you will need to manage your currency and handle transactions in Brazilian Real, it’s straightforward with a bit of preparation.

Question

Is Brazil safe?

Answer

Búzios is very safe. It's a small tourist town with a very low crime rate and very friendly locals and visitors. But we recommend being aware of your surroundings while traveling in Río just as you would in any other major city. Keep your cash and cards secure. Brazil is a popular destination, and like in many countries, it’s best to be cautious about pickpockets and other forms of theft. If you have an iPhone they are very valuable and are popular targets for pickpockets in certain parts of Río we recommend not walking around outside with your phone out. Take it out inside to see where you're going then put it away.

Question

How do I get a US passport?

Answer

Visit travel.state.gov for the simple steps needed to get your US passport. Applying for a passport as early as possible is a good idea. Typically, you should apply at least 6 months before you need it. This allows time for processing, which can take 8 to 11 weeks on average, though expedited services are available if you need it sooner. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/apply-in-person.html

Question

Are kids welcome?

Answer

Yes!