Unfortunately, there are no direct flights to Porto Alegre. Usually, the trip takes two flights (a longer leg to Brazil and a shorter flight within it) from any major US hub like Miami/FLL, Philly, LA, NYC/Newark, etc. Typically, the route will consist of a 9-11 hour flight to either an airport in Sao Paulo (Guarulhos "GRU" or Campinas "VCP") or to Rio de Janeiro (Rio de Janeiro "GIG"). At this first stop: you will have to go through immigration and customs, grab your checked bag, and drop off at your connecting flight. The second flight to Porto Alegre (from any of the above airports) will take no longer than 1.5 hours, and judging by your excitement of being in Brazil this will literally fly by... Ha!
At this time - Americans do not. However, all internationals, please double check!
Gramado is located in a mountainous area, while Porto Alegre is around water level, making the drive slower and full of curves. Even though it is about 72 miles be ready to drive between 2 to 2.5 hours. On the bright side, the drive has beautiful views and many valley overlooks for you to enjoy. Here is a Google Maps link of what the drive looks like: https://goo.gl/maps/hHAhS8dAH5aMrSsP7
The majority of Brazilians do not speak English. Google translate will be your best friend when communicating in Portuguese! We encourage you to learn some phrases (@duolingo), but it's not necessary :) Overall, Brazilians freak out when they hear English speakers and get happy! Sounds odd, but don't be weirded out if you get a lot of smiles and stares on the street.
Gramado is one of the most touristic towns in Brazil. However, it is the complete opposite of what a Brazilian vacation is usually thought of as. It is located in the mountains in the southernmost state in Brazil, meaning that it is one of the few places in the country that gets snow (this happens RARELY in the middle of the night and melts right away, however still something for Brazil). The town is known for its hospitality industry, and very famous for its cuisine (Italian and German heritage). Additionally, Gramado is known for its chocolate industry, with some of the best homemade chocolate brands around (check out Florybal and Lugano stores). During Christmas time, it becomes Santa Paradise, with many shows and decorations all across town. Due to its colder climate and germanic architecture, this is probably the most "Christmas Spirit" you can find in Brazil, making it a great destination during the Holidays.
Gramado is known for its culinary and amazing restaurants! There is a variety of cuisines, but local Italian cuisine and a Cafe Colonial are must tries! Here is a list of a few restaurants: - 1835: Brazilian Steakhouse with beautiful valley overlook - great to watch the sunset and enjoy some wine. - Cantina Pastasciutta: An Italian Food staple. - George III: French Cuisine - very fancy. - Cara de Mau Pizzaria: Pizza the Brazilian way! Themed pizza place with unlimited pizza. - Malbec Fondue: Classic Gramado fondue staple, absolutely amazing. - Cafe Colonial Bela Vista: You will feel a trip back in time to Grandma's house. PSA: go with an empty stomach.
Pretty much any bar/restaurant around the town will have good wine, local beers, and happy hour. However, here are some suggestions: - Gram Bier: Wide variety of taps including local breweries - MATHEUS' SEAL OF APPROVAL - Divino Gramado: Amazing location and famous as a top bar later at night! - Buteco do Bill: A gigantic "Pub" a bit far from the downtown, but with great live music + party - EMMY'S SEAL OF APPROVAL
We recommend being a tourist in Gramado and Porto Alegre. However, if you are also flying through São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, we recommend visiting. São Paulo is the largest city in Brasil with a ton of attractions. Rio de Janeiro is the most famous city in Brasil with ideal vacation spots. Now, if you want to extend your stay in the south of Brasil, we recommend visiting Balneário Camboriú. This is where Matheus' uncle lives. The city is less commonly known to tourists, but it's considered the "Ibiza" of Brasil.