Please use the form below for questions/comments.

Thanks for the report and photos GCL.

GCL,

Thanks. I specifically like the detailed info on the Metro. That could be very helpful to guys going downtown during the day. I'll definately check it out.

I don't know what it is about the Cambios, but I bet that when the rate gets as high as it is now, they can't follow as closely as when the dollar was lower. I was quoted 298 when the bank rate was 312 to the dollar, but now the difference in ATM vs cambio is approaching 1R per dollar consistently among cambios from what I hear. I'd agree your best bet is to put some extra cash in your checking and use the ATM's the whole trip.

I had a similar experience in Aeroporto. I'd say the best I saw was a 5 if I was generous, however unlike Mitchc, I didn't feel the need to grope and DFK her to get my 50 R worth.

What I remember most about 4x4 from my trip was meeting you there, and how every garota in the boite came up and addressed you by name. I hear they have a locker with GCL on it now. No one mentions 4x4 as having the best talent of the termas, but it could because a lot of them don't show up until later and some only work a day a week or less. I'm going to try staying late one weeknight my next trip to see what I find.

If you admitted to 4x4 EVERY day, why didn't you admit to Luomo every night? Come on, you know it's true.

Your report contained a lot of useful info for some of the first timers going and also is a good update for regulars too. Good job.

HC1

GCL,

good, excellent report......I'm sure I'll make use of it pretty soon!

pachangero

Hey GCL,

Very excellent report. Very succinctly puts together many of the practical aspects of getting around Rio. A few more comments to add:

Taxis - Outside of the Othon Palace Hotel, Help Disco, and also Mariu's, there are usually a bunch of guys waiting in taxis. As soon as they see you, they run up and say TAXI. These guys have no meter and charge you anywhere from 2X to 3X a normal taxi.

Metro - That's a great idea to take the Metro to 4X4! If you are travelling in or out of Centro between 6-8 pm, it is a minimum of 30 minutes by taxi because the traffic is so thick.

Terma 65 - I have only been to this terma one time and I would have rated it one step ahead of Aeropuerto. How would you compare it with Monte Carlo?

Just for completeness, there are two great termas not on your list (I'm sure you are aware) Centaurus and Solarium.

Cambios - From now on, I am going the ATM route. The exchange rate is better, you're not always carrying around a wad of cash, and you don't have a fistful of reales when you return. But if you have to change some dollars, there is a travel agency across from Blame it on Rio that is pretty convenient.

Anyways, great report with tons of useful information.

See you in November

BT

Great report Mr. Bean

BT--You are correct about needing more Terma info. I will do an update of this report once I have done more research and have something to say about the places you mentioned. Of course, I havent been able to convince myself I should pay the $$ for Centaurus. However, from a strictly research standpoint, I may go. So consider this report a dynamic document.

Hemp -- be careful...remember I will be in Rio for two weeks with access to your wives. Picture a glazed donut....

Ok GCL I get the picture, but if you glaze any of my wives I will post the picture of you arriving in Rio. You know what I mean Mr. Bean

GCL,

I have to agree with you. In fact, I'll go with you to both Centaurus and Solarium. Strictly for research purposes, of course.

BT

Superb effort!

I never really seriously considered the Metro nor cell phones until I read your report. I intend on utilizing both on my next trip to Rio. Hopefully I'll be able to get back soon. It's been my favorite destination of all so far, but I think I've decided I need to give Buenos Aires another shot since I only spent 4 days there last time. However, if I'm not having the time of my life I might just have to buy another ticket in BA!