Carnival in Rio
 

May have the opportunity to take cruise next year which spends two nights in Rio during Carnival. Would this be a good way to see some of the Carnival. Actually, would you feel that the Carnival is worth seeing? What about safety? Any responses will be welcome. Thanks.

I've only been to Carnaval in the northeast of Brasil but have been in Rio just preceding the start of it. Carnaval is a great time to visit Brasil but I think that Rio, because of all the international visitors, becomes more commercial and expensive. Also, it becomes more dangerous and the chance of being taken advantage of becomes greater. If you have accomodations on board and travel with groups I think it would be a wonderful experience. Since Carnaval lasts a week (with precarnaval activities) maybe you'll get lucky and the ship will stop in Bahia before Rio.

Have a great time.

I can't really help you out dividlee but I will be there. I already booked my hotel and I just have to wait a couple more weeks before I can book my FF tix.

I spent Mardi Gras in New Orleans can't even imagine what Carnival will be like in Rio.

Gisela and I made our honeymoon trip to the Carneval in Rio in 1971. The main event are the parades and the main parade starts late Saturday afternoon until Sunday morning. In 1971 the paade was held on the major avenue Generalissimo Franco (now you should try early to get tickets to the Sambadome).

Beside the parades there is Samba (Carneval) all over the town and for enthusiasts (like me) there are also many Bals (everywhere).

It is one of those lifetime-excperiences I would for sure not miss if possible.

I was in Rio for New Years Eve this year. That "Revillion" celebration is nearly as big a deal as Carnival. A Superb experience .. for report see:
www.GlenStephens.com/Falklands.html

------------------
~ Glen ~

Go for it! Have fun and don't worry about the small stuff. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif Lucky you, I have always wanted to go.

A P.S. ... and a warning to all. Read the final par in my report above. My VISA card was duplicated into a fake name card and the account was up to about $20,000 when I got home and finally saw an account. HUGE problem in Brazil the bank tells me. Do NOTTTTTT let your card out of your sight at ANY restaurant (especially) whilst there.

------------------
~ Glen ~

So that explains why they bring those machines around that scans your credit card at your table instead of taking them to the counter.