Expert: Edison - 10/5/2006

Question
hello, I will be traveling to Bahia (Salvador Da Bahia?), Brazil... I am not
sure if it matters how long I'm staying or why I will be there? if it does I can
summerize my visit... I am just going for a few days regarding a professional
boxing show on HBO...the world champion is from brazil and he is defending his
title from his home town in Brazil... I boxer I help train will be on the
undercard...so maybe 3 days max....
I have never traveled outside the country....I am wondering what credentials I
will need?  I have been told 5 different things from passport to no passport
but I do need a visa to both...
also, do you have any good advise for a first time traveler to brazil?   I here
the language barrier is quite strong....
thank you very much for your time!


Answer
Jackson,

You need a passport and tourist visa to go to Brazil. A Brazilian consulate can provide you more details. This site has a list the Brazilian consulates in US:
http://www.brasilemb.org/consulado/consular_jurisdictions.shtml

Not many people speak English in Brazil, but many foreign tourists go to Brazil and Salvador. So, you will able to get help at the airports, upper scale hotels and most popular tourist spots.

I would recommend to hire an English speaking tourist guide in Salvador. You would save money and be safer. Get more information on the hotel's front desk.  

You usually fly to Sao Paulo and then take another flight to Salvador (2-3 hours).

Here are few good sites about Salvador:
http://www.salvadorforpartiers.com/ (a lot of great information for the first time visitors)
http://www.world66.com/southamerica/brazil/salvador

Good luck and have fun!

Edison