I will be flying on 12/26/2007 to GRU on DL from ATL and connecting there for GIG. I arrive at 8 AM. How much time should I allow between arrival and connecting flights. At this time, GOL flys from GRU at 2PM (unfortunately, the previous flight leaves at 9:30 AM and I do not think I can make the connection, even with a seat in BE and no checked baggage. However, I want to be certain that this connection can be make. Furthermore, is there a club (PC or other) that I can use while waiting for the flight? Or can I make the 9:30 AM flight?
Second, when I return on 12/31, my CO flight leaves at 11:30PM. How much time do I allow for the connection from GIG to GRU? Can I take a 6 PM flight or should I stick to 4 pm? Perhaps later (8PM). Should I expect much difficulty in the transfer? Again I will have only carry on baggage and I am flying BF. Insight from the knowledgeable will be vastly appreciated.
Thanks
Radonc1

If your DL flight is on time and the check-in lines for GOL are not long you stand a better than average chance of making the connection. But Brazilian airports being what they are today, I would allow at least a 3 hour connection time in GRU to be safe.

On your way back, why don't you get on the CO flight in GIG and the just connect internationally in GRU? Otherwise go for the 6pm flight (I would do the 4pm myself) and crosss your fingers that there are no delays.

For me the connection is doable but very tight if the inbound flight is behind schedule but I don't see a flight on GOL at 9-30am. I only see flights on GOL at 7-30am and 2-30pm so why not take a GRU-GIG flight on TAM, one of which leaves at 10-54am?

Wrt the return the 6 pm should be fine but I can't believe anyone would leave Rio on NYE when they could wait an extra day and experience Reveillon there.