Getting+Around+Town


 * __Tips (Dicas)__**


 * __Getting a cab__ - In major cities of Brazil, it is quite easy to obtain a cab, as there are at least two in plain sight almost at any time. However, getting the best deal can be tricky. First of all, always ask the driver how much it will cost to take you to your location. If it is high, try to negotiate him down. Don't be afraid to ask things like, "Can we fit five people in the car?", "Can we drink beer in the car?", because if one driver says no there is always another who will more than likely let you get what you need from the ride. Obviously, especially if late at night or in a shady neighborhood, always be aware of the cab driver. Look to see if the car is a legitimate taxi cab, and if the driver seems trustworthy. From my experience, however, the cab drivers were some of the nicest people I talked to.


 * __Taking A Van__ - A very cheap alternative to taking a taxi in Rio de Janeiro is taking one of the many white vans that run all day long up and down the beaches of Copacabana, Ipanema, and even Leblon. As long as you know where to get off, as these drivers will not take you to your direct location, for a little over two reais you can get where you need to in the city, with the exception of the Lapa, Tijuca, or other distant locations. Sometimes these vans can be very crowded, and I would not suggest taking them in the middle of the night, but during the day they can help you save a lot of money.


 * __Taking a Bus__- Buses can be a cheap alternative to taxis as well, however they can take more time than a taxi or a van. If you are in a hurry, I wouldn't suggest taking a bus. Also, make sure you know that the bus will take you where you want to go before boarding. It is very easy to get lost in a big city because some places look the same. One more thing, wait for the bus attendant to tell you to walk through the gates at the front of the bus, as I saw many people walk right into the bars only to be pushed back.


 * __Going to a Club__ - The clubs in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paolo are incredible, a great experience for young people. However, they do get very crowded, and most Brazilians don't even show up to the club until very late, as they remain open almost all night. If you show up at the club around midnight, expect to wait in a very long line, unless you know somebody who can get you in. In one instance, we didn't even get into the club until 2 AM, after pushing our way through a massive crowd to get past the bouncer. It worked out, because we ended up staying for three hours anyways, but if you don't want to wait in line you should get to the club around 11-11:30. Also, many clubs make you pay a steep cover, however some of them provide alcohol with the cover. It can be unappealing to pay an 80 reais cover until you realize that you get 80 reais worth of alcohol with it, which you probably would've spent anyways.


 * __Shopping at the Fairs__- If you are on a tight budget, the many fairs that exist in Rio de Janeiro are a great place to find numerous goods. Especially when looking for souvenirs for yourself or family members, these places offer very discounted prices. However, unless you are trying to support the local economy, never accept the first price that a vendor gives you. Always try to negotiate as more often than not you will be able to pay much less for the good.