Tourist / Travel Visa
You might need to obtain a tourist/travel visa, especially if you are coming from a country like the United States. Check with your local Consulate General of Brazil / Brazilian Embassy for more information. Since the process is not the same for every country, it is best for you to find out the requirements as soon as possible. If a visa is required and you have a valid passport, the process generally takes about 6 weeks.
Recommended Hotels
- Hotel Atlântico Praia
- Hotel Astoria Praia
- Hotel Astoria Copacabana
- Hotel Vermont Ipanema
- Hotel Ipanema Beach Star
- Personal Airbnb – Inform Alexandre if you are booking this.
Credit & Debit Cards
To avoid potential issues, you should alert your bank about upcoming travel plans. This will help avoid withdrawals and purchases from being blocked. Some banks and credit cards even offer 0% international transaction fees. Plan ahead of time with resources like The Points Guy. You may be able to get free airline points with the cost of your plastic surgery procedure. Most businesses in Rio de Janeiro accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express, but some may add a credit card surcharge.
Cell Phones, SIM Cards, and WiFi
Your mobile phone provider may offer international texting and data options. In the US, Sprint and TMobile, offer free international data and texting. If not, it is a good idea to get a prepaid SIM card via TIM. Remember to ask your carrier to unlock your phone. Public WiFi is fairly easy to find in most coffee shops, restaurants, shops, and hotels.
Useful Phone Numbers
Tourist Support Police: +55 (21) 2332-2924
Police: 190
Ambulance: 192
Fire: 193
Tipping
Hotels – Most hotel bills include a service charge of 10%. If a service charge is not mentioned on a bill or check, it is customary to tip 10% of the total amount.
Food & Services – Some restaurant bills will include a service charge. If a service charge is not included, it is customary to tip 10% of the total amount. This rule also applies to hairdressers and other services.
Luggage – One Brazilian Real (R$) per suitcase.
Language
Although Portuguese is Brazil’s native language, most people can understand basic English. However, there might be a slight language barrier.
Medical Insurance & Vaccination
If international coverage is available in your region via your insurance provider, it is a good idea to make sure you are covered in Brazil. Consult your general practice/family doctor regarding vaccination requirements.