Expert: Edison - 9/20/2007

Question
Hello

I was hoping you could help me with advice and recommendations on my first trip to Rio Carnival.

Every year for the past 3 years i have wanted to go to Rio Carnival, and next year looks most likely. I have got the time off at work, i can get the flights i want, but now i find myself lost in the outrageous hotel accommodation prices i have been quoted. In some cases the hotels are four times what it would be if i came at any other time, other than Carnival time.

So i will tell you what i want, and could you advise me with any information you have.

1.  The dates i was thinking of travelling are 1st February 2008 to 7th February 2008 do you think these dates are ok, or should i be getting here earlier or later?

2.  I hear staying in Ipanema is better for being closer to all the action, which is what I'm looking for, but is this true, because it does cost more to stay here than Copacabana district?

3.  I do not necessary have to go to the Sambadome, because i LOVE street carnivals and i here there are plenty of those, is this true? Because that's where i want to be?

4.  Where to stay. Looking for accommodation which is close to all the street action, shopping, beach, street carnivals, in a safe area as i will be travelling alone?

5.  And, any further advice you can give, e.g Hotels, Guest houses, Apartments, websites, do's and dont's will be so much welcome.

Many Thanks in advance.

Mark from London.

Answer
Mark,

"Carnaval" happens all over Brazil. The one in Rio is the most famous one. The best and safer places to party are the club balls.

Other cities, such as Salvador and Recife, also offer excellent street carnaval.

I recommend to come with a group of Europeans (check with some travel agencies). It is safer, cheaper and more fun.
I haven't being to a carnaval to Brazil, so I cannot provide more details.

Check these sites for more information:
http://www.ipanema.com/carnival/planner.htm
http://www.rio-carnival.net/
http://www.bahia-online.net/Carnival.htm
http://www.portoseguro.tur.br/articles/riocarnival.htm
http://www.carnaval.com/cityguides/brazil/salvador/salvcarn.htm
http://www.carnaval.com/cityguides/brazil/recife/carnaval.htm
http://www.recife.pe.gov.br/especiais/carnaval/ (in Portuguese)
http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2006/jul/29/brazil.festivals.userstraveladvice

Please go and have fun!

Edison