Before planning a trip to Rio de Janeiro, you should definitely get as much as travel information as possible. Due to the size of Rio, the amount of things to do and places to visit, it is of paramount importance that you learn as much as you can before travelling to Brazil.
Basically, you have four sources of travel information on Rio de Janeiro:
Travel Agencies
Travel agencies are in general a good source of information, especially those based in Rio de Janeiro. They can advise you on local tours, travelling to other cities in Brazil, half or full day trips in or out of Rio, shows, and more. Since they expect you to buy their service, the info you receive is usually limited, as it involves mainly the products they sell (usually touristy). There are several reliable travel agencies in Copacabana and Ipanema (some in Leme, Leblon and downtown), which are open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and until 1 p.m. on Saturdays.
Internet
The Internet is a great source of travel information on Rio de Janeiro, but to a certain extent. For example, travelers reviews on forums are a great source of information, although some are overly positive or negative. The main draw back of relying on travel information on the Internet is that 1) a lot of the info is outdated, 2) part of what is written is contradictory, which may confuse and mislead you, and 3) the information is spread out all over the Internet — you may loose a lot of time to learn everything that matters.
Hotel’s Concierge
Concierges from good hotels in Rio de Janeiro are a great source of travel information since the staff answers the same questions every day and knows most answers by heart. However, some of them are eager to book services primarily for the hotel’s benefit. Always ask if there is a cheap or better alternative of the service they want to book for you.
Travel Guides
Paperback travel guides are an excellent source of travel information. However, many of them have way too much information, and worse, are outdated. Even when you buy the very latest edition, you risk of having a guide with recommendations that are no longer valid.
You can combine all sources of Rio de Janeiro travel information mentioned above, and to complement them, you can get the most reliable, updated, unbiased info in My Rio Travel Guide – The Essential How-To Visitor’s Guide to Rio de Janeiro.
