What budget to travel au Brésil? Money and currency

Brazil is no longer a cheap country. During the summer vacations, from December to February (including the carnival period) and the school vacations in July, prices are doubled or even more in Rio, Salvador, Recife or Olinda.
The local currency is the real. In restaurants, service is included and represents 10% of the total amount

What budget for activities and outings au Brésil?

In monuments, public transport and museums, admission is free for people over 65 (60 in some states) and children under 5. One of the biggest expenses is often the price of a plane ticket or tickets to see as much of the country as possible. For those who want to cross this vast country in a short space of time, while neglecting their carbon footprint, the "Brazil Air Pass" is a good alternative. Of course, we recommend bus travel, but inter-city distances are sometimes so great that air travel is the last resort. The Azul and Gol airlines offer passes at US$ 399 and US$ 505 respectively for 4 coupons. As soon as you have your ticket for Brazil, you need to take them from France or the countries from which you are departing.

In Brazil, local products (clothing, Havaianas, food, alcohol...) are generally cheaper than in France and Europe. Electronics and other imported products are often more expensive than in Europe. Credit cards are now widely used. Even street vendors selling swimwear in Copacabana have card terminals. The banks charge a commission for the exchange and transaction, but it remains safe and efficient.

What is the budget for accommodation au Brésil?

Accommodation prices vary considerably, depending on the range of establishments, of course, but also on the time of year or the proximity of events. During Carnival, New Year's Eve or Easter in places like Ouro Preto, prices can be multiplied by 2, 3 or 4. What's more, during these periods, customers are often required to book a "pacote", i.e. a certain minimum number of nights. Generally speaking, a bed in a dormitory costs between R$60 and R$80, while a double room in a relatively comfortable establishment such as the Regina or Rio Othon Palace costs between R$250 and R$400. For the magnificent Belmonte Copacabana Palace, you'll need to spend at least R$2,000. Prices can vary between high and low season. In low season, in cities where competition is strong (Foz de Iguaçu, for example), it's not incongruous to negotiate prices, especially if you pay in cash. All establishments generally accept payment by credit card.

Travel budget au Brésil and cost of living

Budget. Brazil is no longer a cheap country, despite the current collapse of the real. The budget for a trip to Brazil remains fairly high. You need to allow 70 euros for a small daily budget per person (dormitory and sandwiches...), 120 euros for a medium budget and 150-200 euros for a comfortable budget. In the big cities, accommodation can be a major expense. As everywhere, rates for hotels and other tourist services vary according to season and event. During the summer vacations, from December to February (including the Carnival period) and the July school vacations, and even on weekends, prices are higher. They can be doubled or more. In "conventional" restaurants, the bill can quickly become steep. It's possible to eat by the kilo, and for a more modest sum. Prepared dishes(PF, prato feito) are generally inexpensive.

In the low season, you can travel more cheaply if you travel only by bus (overnight), stay in decent but simple hotels, and try the cheapest restaurants (self-service by the kilo). Don't hesitate to negotiate for all the tourist services on offer, especially in low season, when customers are scarce. It's important to remember, however, that very low market prices can sometimes be at the expense of safety. In addition, you must respect the work of others and negotiate within acceptable limits.

Tip. The Gol and Azul airlines offer attractive pass systems for domestic flights, which can only be purchased in France or in the traveller's home country after the purchase of a round-trip ticket to Brazil.

Tips. In restaurants, a 10% gratuity is added to the amount you pay to waiters. This means you don't have to leave a tip, with the exception of a few restaurants where the 10% is not included. But there's nothing to stop you leaving a tip if you enjoyed the service.

Haggling. You can negotiate the price of goods, especially in street markets. You can try your luck by asking for a discount, preferring to pay in cash (always offer a decent price or refrain from haggling).

Taxes. Prices may sometimes be taxed, but the practice is not uniform and the signs are not always explicit. In some hotels, 5% ISS and/or 10% service tax must be added to the posted price. In bars and restaurants, the 10% service charge is not shown on the menu, but is always included in the bill.