You'll quickly pick up things along the way when in Rio but here are
some tips from our team to get you started. But please note that the
final tip is not through personal experiences! Rather what our local
guides have told us.
Pack with the climate in mind and don’t stuff your suitcase full because you’ll need space for the goodies you buy. Summer (December – March) is sunny with occasional afternoon showers, average high around 35*C (95*F) and low around 24&C (75*F). Winter (June – September) temperatures drop to an average high of 21*C (70*C) and low around 15*C (70*F)
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If you’re not being picked up at Rio airport, book a taxi at one of the desks after you clear customs. It’s a little more expensive than what the locals pay but it will be far cheaper than after haggling with a driver at the taxi ranks. As a rough guide expect to pay roughly 65$R to Copacabana and a little bit more to Ipanema.
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£ sterling is pretty much ignored. Everyone mostly deals in US $ and Euros. And for goodness sake, make sure that you get your debit cards unblocked by your bank before you leave. And take their number just in case.
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Smoking is now banned almost everywhere including you hotel room unless you specifically ask for a smoking room.
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If you’re taking your mobile phone, your service provider will advise what best to do. But we’d recommend SaverSIM.
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They claim that Wi Fi internet access in now widely available on Copacabana beach and the immediate surrounding area. But we found no connection! All good hotels will have a computer to use at a reasonable charge and more and more now offer Wi Fi for free. Back out on the streets there are internet cafes everywhere.
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Though not as rife as in the past, petty crime still exists so don’t go around flaunting your jewellery. Better safe than sorry, and leave your rings, necklaces and chains in your hotel. And don’t put your wallet in your back pocket.
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The best taxis to take in town are the ones with their company name and taxi registration number displayed over their rear wheels. If you’re booking a taxi use one of the coop companies. We recommend Libertaxi, Central Taxi and JB Taxis.
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If you decide to have a snack at one of the beachside kiosks, avoid those opposite the big hotels and head for the ones that are frequented by the locals. That way you won’t be paying over the odds.
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However inviting it looks, unless you’re quite a strong swimmer and fit, avoid going beyond the break of the big wave as you’re likely to be dragged out further by the rip tide. Don’t trying swimming back in a straight line. Swim at 45 degrees the beach and let the tide take you in.
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If a girl comes on extra friendly on Copacabana beach, it’s unlikely because of your blue eyes! If you’re surrounded by a flock of beauties at a bar or club hang onto your drink. And if you leave it, don’t drink it. Never ever take up an invitation by your new ‘girlfriend’ to visit her place. You have been warned!
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