FAQs
Question
Do I need a passport/visa?
Answer
Yes you will need your passport but you no longer need a visa to travel to Brazil!
Question
Do I need to speak Portuguese?
Answer
No, most places that we expect you to visit will be tourist heavy. The hospitality industry in Rio and at restaurants tends to have English speakers so it should not be a problem. There are always English menus available. The only time it may be difficult is with Uber drivers.
Question
What are some common words in Portuguese?
Answer
1. Cerveja - Beer 2. Bom Dia – Good Morning 3. Boa Tarde – Good Afternoon 4. Boa Noite – Good Night 5. Oi/Ola - Hello 6. Por favor – Please 7. De nada – You’re welcome 8. Obrigada/o – Thank you 9. Tudo bem? – How are you? 10. Sim / não – Yes / no 11. Banheiro – Bathroom
Question
What is the Brazilian currency and do I need cash? Do you tip?
Answer
It is the real "hey-al" or reais "hey-I-sh". Most places accept card. It is good to have some cash, especially if you want to buy snacks, drinks, chairs on the beach. Even street vendors selling towels, art, jewelry etc sometimes accept card but it's good to have cash in case. It is not necessary to tip at restaurants, 10% is automatically included but if you love the service it is always nice!
Question
What is the best way to get to the wedding venue?
Answer
We will be providing transportation to the venue from Arena Ipanema hotel. It is imperative if you plan to use this option to be on time as there is only one bus. Pick up will be promptly at 4PM. If you are not taking this arranged transportation, we recommend taking an uber.
Question
Is there a dress code?
Answer
For the welcome event we encourage you to wear white/linens. The wedding is semi-formal, so we encourage you to wear garden cocktail attire which encourages prints, patterns and colors.
Question
What will the weather be like?
Answer
We hope and except that the weather will be in the mid to high 70s °F/20 °C. In the event of rain, which is always possible in a tropical environment, the ceremony will be moved indoors.
Question
What is the approximate cost?
Answer
If you are traveling from the US you can expect your flight to be between $500-$1,000 USD. Once in Rio the conversion is expected to range from 1 USD: 4.5-5 $R. Hotel/AirBnb accommodations will vary depending on length of stay and level of service but can range from $50/night to $350/night. Please see travel tab for our suggestions and room block options.
Question
Is it safe?
Answer
Absolutely. Rio is generally safe — as long as you follow these safety precautions, you shouldn't have any problems. Try to stay on the southern side of the city (Zona Sul) unless on a guided tour. Travel in groups if you can. Do not walk with your purse unzipped or your phone in your hand. Petty crime/theft is common, especially on the beach.