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And those most in need did not benefit from this vulgar display of wealth and success which was nothing more than a facade. Yes...very sad.

I thought I would start a thread detailing my February 2017 visit to Rio. Many of the contributors here are veterans with the scene (and I thank them for all their input) so I hope my contribution can be what it is like as a first-timer. I have visited the city previously but it was with friends and I did not partake of the delights of the saunas. I hope to give some advice on "first-timer" mistakes and I also hope to share some of the non-sauna things I do if anyone is interested (again, I have already done the big ones such as Corcovado, Sugarloaf, Botanical Gardens previously). I arrived today and was pleasantly surprised with how efficient, modern and friendly the immigration/customs process was at the airport. I was prepared for long lines but it all went quickly and smoothly (arrival at about noon during high season). It was much faster than my experience in US airports recently! It was then that I had my first-day problem. Perhaps veterans can offer some advice on this one. I was thoroughly ripped off by the taxi from the airport to the hotel. I took a taxi from arrivals curbside and it was yellow/blue and had an official license (things others have said to check) I also know my geography well enough to know it took the direct route. But, the meter was obviously rigged as the amount was way above what is expected (I would be embarrassed to even say how much it was). I knew the amount was way too high but sometimes you just get off a long international flight and don't have the energy to fight in a language you don't know...so I paid. Anyhow, the hotel told me that rigged meters have become more of a problem lately and that arranging a ride with a company inside the airport is better. Lesson learned for me but it was frustrating of course (who likes to be taken advantage of?) and maybe others have advice on how to avoid this scam. I rested a bit at the hotel pool and then headed for a Tuesday night at 117. I was there in an early timeframe (5-7) and the place was packed! If it gets any more crowded later in the evening, it would be a fire hazard! There were people standing throughout the hallways (with the GPs flashing their goods). The selection was outstanding! This is NOT a complaint but it may have even have been a bit overwhelming for a first time (I may have been better off with a "training wheels" night for a first visit rather than arriving on what others say is the busiest night of the week). Rooms are free on Tuesdays but the desk clearly states they are free for 30 minutes only. At the front desk (staff friendly and helpful), I was given a key. Lockers are in the basement. I was a bit confused by this part as someone just magically appeared at my locker with towels and sandals (they even had my right size although no one asked my size). I did notice that there were obvious regulars as the GPs seemed to know many of the customers and groups of boys seemed to gather in groups around certain customers (maybe some regulars here?). I have to say that I was a bit shy being my first time and went with two guys who approached me (rather than me choosing...honestly, I am not sure where I even would have begun as there were so many hot guys). I bought both guys drinks (they go for Gatorade) and was happy they eagerly kissed right in the bar area. I have been to Thermas in Barcelona and have noted many guys there won't kiss where their buddies can see them outside of a private room. The going starting rate seemed to be $150R. I know others here have said that is overpaying but again I am a newbie! I ended up paying the second guy a bit more because I wanted to do so. I have noticed the etiquette on this message board is to not delve into explicit details so I will respect that. But, he did something I didn't even request but he did it passionately and I loved it! Both guys did ask for more to "milk" but honestly that wasn't a must for me. Here was a surprise for me...the women sitting right outside the rooms who come in and clean them when you are done. God bless them as that must be a difficult job to explain! Is it common to tip them in any way? I thought about it but didn't have cash when I went upstairs to the rooms. After your time, the GP follows you to your locker area (while staying a respectful distance away which was nice). The guys do seem very interested in getting your WhatsApp number for later meetings. I found the checkout process professional also. One additional note on going to 117. I obviously had a bad experience with a taxi so I took the Metro to/from the Club. I found it modern and very easy to use. You purchase cards at machines located near the turnstiles. I did notice the machine I used didn't give change so make sure you have an appropriate reais bill for how much you want to have loaded on a card. The walk from the Gloria Metro stop was short and seemed very safe. I find Google Street View helpful so I knew exactly where I was going. The area near the station is full of people in an informal market of food and other wares. Some will always use taxis I know but I really found the Metro a safe and quick option. Hope this is helpful. I will report additional info as I experience the trip. I may try 202 tomorrow.

Your advice on Uber is probably the way to go. Ironically, I had recently deleted Uber as the CEO was involved with a committee formed by the new US administration. To his credit (IMO), the CEO has since resigned from the group. There had been mixed reviews of Pointe 202 here but I went on a Wednesday night and it was packed. Rooms are free on Wednesdays and I think the facilities were just as nice as 117 and, more importantly, the selection and variety of men was on par with what I had seen the night before at 117. Of course, I say "variety" but dark-haired, muscular, week-old scruff, and fashionable tattoos are the predominant type at both establishments! The asking price also seemed the same at $150R. 202 is very convenient to Copa hotels and near a Metro station if coming from elsewhere. Guys did say that it is much less busy on other nights. I did have the experience of one guy showing me pictures of his wife and 10-year old daughter. I know that situation is common but still takes a little getting used to. This may be the type of info that no one here cares to hear so I apologize if that is the case. But, I thought I would mention a few other attractions to keep one busy during the day outside of the ones everyone knows. -The bonde (tram) to Santa Teresa provides a look at a neighborhood in the hills of Rio that has a very different vibe from the beach areas. The neighborhood has a mixture of arty/bohemian shops and cafes and restored mansions. There are great views from the tram and the station is close to Cinelandia metro. Runs every 20 minutes and costs $20R. -Esacadaria Selaron (same neighborhood): stairway to Santa Teresa neighborhood that is covered in tiles (created by one artist over his lifetime) that is colorful and interesting to see. Fun to spot where the tiles originated (people from around the world sent tiles to the artist) -Catete Palace/Museum of the Republic (right at Catete Metro): like a smallish European-style palace with gardens. Was home to Brazilian presidents and one (Vargas...a bit like a Brazilian FDR maybe) shot himself in the bedroom. They have the gun and bullet he used on display. Mostly of interest to see European styles transported to tropics. -Forte de Copacabana (south end of beach)- great views and the two cafes provide one of the most pleasant places I have seen to sit and have a drink/snack (and espcially on a hot day....just sitting there and taking in the view under shade trees is worth the $6R admission). As an added bonus, it is an active military installation and there are plenty of hot young soldiers walking around. If I hear no feedback, I will skip the travel commentary. But, bottom line is that no one should hesitate checking out 202 (at least on a Wednesday!)

No he just served them breakfast !

I just got a message from one of the guys who was part of the regular apartment group for the last 5 trips. He was a army paratrooper and one of Brazil's medal winning jujitsu champions really a nice guy! (Met him through floridarob). Last Octobr he joined the French foreign legion because there was no opportunities for him in Brazil! He has now finished training and sent me a FB message that he is coming to the US next year and can he stay for a week with me and see SoCal? That took me about a millisecond to say yes! :-)

No surprise, but to see it in pictures is dramatic and sad. http://www.businessinsider.com/rio-olympic-venues-are-abandoned-just-6-months-after-games-2017-2/#the-olympic-golf-course-took-three-years-to-make-and-caused-much-ire-because-it-was-built-in-a-national-wildlife-reserve-now-its-rundown-and-empty-1