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Samba for a song in Rio this Carnaval season

Get into the groove – it's almost Carnaval time! If you've always wanted to check out fun-loving Rio, why not do it during the world’s biggest and most colorful street party?
/ Source: Sherman's Travel

Book by: January 30, 2006
Travel by: February 23, 2006

The Deal
Get into the groove – it's almost Carnaval time! If you've always wanted to check out fun-loving Rio, why not do it during the world’s biggest and most colorful street party? This is the year to pull out those dancing shoes as Gate1Travel has a few places left on its February 22 and 23 departures from just $1329. At this low price, you'll get air, 7-day (or more) hotel stays, and daily breakfast. The deal is bound to sell out at lightening speed, so you'd best book now if you want a little samba for a song this winter!

There’s no better time to see Brazil’s sexiest city than during this sensational feast when streets and beaches come alive with music, dance and all-out hedonistic fun. It’s also the peak of the Southern Hemisphere summer, and the most expensive time to visit Rio, with airfare and hotels priced through the roof. On top of astronomical costs, it’s also near impossible to find an available room. That’s exactly why we recommend you book this terrific special!

These discounted package rates include round-trip flights out of New York, Miami, or Washington, DC (call for other gateways) and seven- to ten-day accommodations at either the Savoy Othon Travel Hotel or the Luxor Continental (hotel upgrades at five additional properties are also available for an extra fee). The well-located Savoy Othon Travel, which WCities.com states that at just “. . . two blocks away from the Copacabana beach, this hotel is in an excellent location. Shops, cinemas and restaurants are within easy reach. . .” Stay here, and even when you’re away from Carnaval, you'll always be just steps away from the action! Or, opt for a stay at the Luxor Continental, also situated convenient to the famous Rio beaches and nightlife. This property has been recently refurbished, and again according to WCities.com, "is large and the rooms are spacious."

Daily breakfast is also included in these packages, as are airport transfers. Lock in the lowest rate of $1329 from Washington, DC; New York starts at $1479; Miami is available from $1679.

The Dollars
The package is priced per person, based on double occupancy. It’s exclusive of air taxes and fees but does include:

  • Roundtrip flights from New York, Washington, D.C., or Miami to Rio de Janeiro (other gateways available).
  • Airline fuel surcharges
  • Arrival transfer Hotel accommodations
  • Breakfast daily
  • Local hotel taxes & service charges

The Catch
You’ll need to obtain a visa to enter Brazil – which you'll have to arrange independently at your local embassy or consulate.

TO BOOK INDEPENDENT TRAVEL

By air: Several major U.S. carriers fly direct to Rio (or with a connecting flight via São Paulo) including United, American, Delta, and Continental. Additionally, Brazilian airlines’ Varig and TAM provide regular service from select US gateways. All international flights fly into Rio’s Galeão Airport (recently renamed Antonio Carlos Jobim Airport), situated about 12 miles northwest of Rio’s hotels and beaches. The smaller Aeroporto Santos Dumont, located centrally downtown, services the Rio-São Paulo air shuttle. Count on the following flight times: 12 hours from New York (with layover); 8 hours from Miami; 9 ½ hours from Atlanta; or 14 hours from Los Angeles (with layover). Check QuickSearch for the best fares.

Local hotels: We recommend the JW Marriott in Copacabana, and the Ipanema Plaza near Ipanema beach. Check QuickSearch for the best hotel rates.

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