Brazil on a Budget - A Nutty TotallyOz Adventure

[Guest lurkerspeaks]

Who is Gary? I thought GTB was a forum site. No?

Share how much I spend? Or, share the points? In the first case, I plead the 5th. On the latter, no points left to share.

GTB is GayTravelBrazil, which is an actual travel agency and also a forum.. Gary is the owner of the agency and the forum. His screen name is dreysonal.

[axiom2001]

All the boys at Meio Mundo asked for 60R. The ones in Porto Alegre were asking for 50R. The ones at 117 asked for 100 or 150 and I said no and all but one went lower. Take the 60R average for Mieo Mundo and then another 25 for the room and it is 85R for the short time. But, remember there are 2-3 nights that the rooms are free in Rio so you will get out a bit cheaper than that. AND, Meio Mundo has some rooms that are always free. They are VERY VERY VERY basic and you put your own sheet on the bed, but hey, it saves a few bucks. Or, take them to your hotel for the night. Most are not only willing to go but want to stay with you. I had many request that but I had my regular boy every night.

All in all the exchange rate does suck for Americans.

I did not mention how much I paid for the hotel cars each way to the saunas but am working on another post with that detail. My end conclusion is that the area I stay in is too expensive and next trip, I'll try Copa and the Atlantico.

THANKS, Oz for your personal assessment of the saunas that you alluded to in this most recent post of yours. I enjoyed the read and plan to note the changes at the various saunas when I return, I hope, during next October 2011.

In terms of the guys' requested fee, as of today R$50 = $29.38 US, R$70= $41.14US and R$100= a mere $59.00; thus MEN, these are still relatively CHEAP rates as contrasted with the US and Europe. In the US the going rates, depending on location and the fame of the guy, are $250 to $400 per hour.

The "porn stars" charge an upwards of $400- $500. I've wanted to be with some of them but NOT at those rates/fees.

[TotallyOz]

GTB is GayTravelBrazil, which is an actual travel agency and also a forum.. Gary is the owner of the agency and the forum. His screen name is dreysonal.

If that site is meant to be a travel agency, they need to post here on this board as well. We have asked them to participate here. We don't even mind links to their site or board. It seems if they are selling travel services that they need to market more. I thought they were just a board. I do remember talking to Gary at one point about the Atlantico and he was nice. I didn't use him as we talked about the Internet being down and that turned me away from that hotel. I do hope he finds other hotels and shares them here as well.

THANKS, Oz for your personal assessment of the saunas that you alluded to in this most recent post of yours. I enjoyed the read and plan to note the changes at the various saunas when I return, I hope, during next October 2011.

In terms of the guys' requested fee, as of today R$50 = $29.38 US, R$70= $41.14US and R$100= a mere $59.00; thus MEN, these are still relatively CHEAP rates as contrasted with the US and Europe. In the US the going rates, depending on location and the fame of the guy, are $250 to $400 per hour.

The "porn stars" charge an upwards of $400- $500. I've wanted to be with some of them but NOT at those rates/fees.

I agree with you. It is still a great bargain! I am working on a summary and will have it shortly.

[Guest drey]

Totally Oz, sorry for not arriving here sooner. It's just that I've been so busy working on a number of projects the last few months.

But, someone let me know I was being talked about, so I decided to check-in to see if I'm famous or infamous as usual LOL

First of all, let me say that I'm very impressed with the site, how easy it was to sign-up, and obviously there's been a lot of work involved in creating it. Kudos to all of you, and especially TotallyOz.

GayTravelBrazil.com is a Forum and a travel site, in general, involving all things Brazilian including the escort scene there.

Since I see some familiar faces here, most know that I decided to take the plunge along with Tri once the HooBoy site closed down, but luckily the posts were saved and are still under Daddy's site.

So, it was never much of a profit motivation at first, more so to keep the Brazilian dream alive. But, we needed something to pay the bills and so we started working with local gay affiliates in Brazil and others to book travel as well years ago.

But, don't call us a travel agency. My pay grade is above that LOl But, I would consider us travel consultants for like-minded gay travelers including gay singles, couples, and of course, those looking for escorts while they're there.

Thanks Lurker for mentioning us, and as a travel group, we can arrange discounted travel, and premium travel as well, that you could not find by booking on your own along with the advice in our Forums.

We don't market much since the last time I checked, we were listed 3rd when you type "gay brazil" in Google.

With the topic of this thread in mind, we all would like to spend the best time in Brazil for less money. Mostly because we enjoy it so much, we can't wait to afford to come back

To be honest, Brazil and especially Rio has gotten more expensive over the last couple of years which makes it even more important to plan your trip wisely. We are beginning relationships with apartment owners, and I plan to meet a few while I'm there during Thanksgiving, along with some of my favorite guys of course LOL

Thanks again guys, and now that I'm here I'll try to check back more often

- Drey, that's Portuguese for Gary... just kidding

[TotallyOz]

Drey, thanks for your kind words. Welcome to the site. I think you provide an excellent service to the community and hope you participate here more!

Out of curiosity, have you considered organizing a trip to Brazil for those that don't want to do it alone the first time? Maybe a 10 - 14 day Sauna tour of Brazil? I think it would be great for some that want to go to be with a group that likes to go to the saunas as well as guides to help direct them to the best places to go.

[Guest drey]

Drey, thanks for your kind words. Welcome to the site. I think you provide an excellent service to the community and hope you participate here more!

Out of curiosity, have you considered organizing a trip to Brazil for those that don't want to do it alone the first time? Maybe a 10 - 14 day Sauna tour of Brazil? I think it would be great for some that want to go to be with a group that likes to go to the saunas as well as guides to help direct them to the best places to go.

Thanks Oz,

I've tried in the past to get something arranged on our site, and I even wanted to do it over this Thanksgiving. But, it seems that no one can agree on a schedule, but you're right that we might not have done a good job of marketing one.

And, I really think that would be the least expensive way to experience Brazil, for a first-time traveler, or even us veteran travelers. If we could arrange the group on the same airline going down and back (maybe with connecting flights elsewhere), while staying at the same hotel, I'm sure we could negotiate some great discounts. Flying on points would be fine as long as we arrive on the same day.

Plus, I'm sure we could convince the sauna owners to give us discounts on admissions, cabine rentals, etc. There would probably even be more guys at the sauna waiting for us once we got the word out we were coming.

Plus, I've got two attractive and wonderful guides in Rio that speak perfect English that would be willing to assist.

Welington just met with a first-time gay couple who went to saunas with him, and they're already raving about Brazil.

I could run it by Monique and others while I'm there. But, we'd also need to plan well in advance, and I know of a group going in early May before our AA miles expire.

Great idea, and I'd certainly be willing to help arrange it for us.

Here's Welington

[TotallyOz]

LOL I met Wellington at 117 the day before I left. I was asking Tomcal about him. He didn't know him from my description. But, hey Tomcal, here is a photo.

Wellington seemed like a great guy and if it was not for him being a top only, I was going to marry him. He was absolutely charming! Perfect English. Great voice and very handsome. I think you choose well with him Drey.

I love the idea of a group going around Brazil. If planned well in advance, It think this could be quite successful and between your site, this one and Daddy's, we should be able to come up with a good group. I'll help in any way possible and if it is something that is going to happen, we put it on the front page for all to see and get information.

You are right in that I think this would be a great way for newbies but also for us veterans.

[Guest drey]

LOL I met Wellington at 117 the day before I left. I was asking Tomcal about him. He didn't know him from my description. But, hey Tomcal, here is a photo.

Wellington seemed like a great guy and if it was not for him being a top only, I was going to marry him. He was absolutely charming! Perfect English. Great voice and very handsome. I think you choose well with him Drey.

I love the idea of a group going around Brazil. If planned well in advance, It think this could be quite successful and between your site, this one and Daddy's, we should be able to come up with a good group. I'll help in any way possible and if it is something that is going to happen, we put it on the front page for all to see and get information.

You are right in that I think this would be a great way for newbies but also for us veterans.

You should see him now, Oz. We did a live video chat a few weeks ago, and he's buffed up quite a bit. Even more sexier now! And, a very sweet guy.

Sounds great and I'd be glad to help plan it with you. I'm working on re-vamping our site as well, and I'll be glad to put it on the first page there as well.

- Drey

[TampaYankee]

Thanks Oz,

I've tried in the past to get something arranged on our site, and I even wanted to do it over this Thanksgiving. But, it seems that no one can agree on a schedule, but you're right that we might not have done a good job of marketing one.

And, I really think that would be the least expensive way to experience Brazil, for a first-time traveler, or even us veteran travelers. If we could arrange the group on the same airline going down and back (maybe with connecting flights elsewhere), while staying at the same hotel, I'm sure we could negotiate some great discounts. Flying on points would be fine as long as we arrive on the same day.

Plus, I'm sure we could convince the sauna owners to give us discounts on admissions, cabine rentals, etc. There would probably even be more guys at the sauna waiting for us once we got the word out we were coming.

Plus, I've got two attractive and wonderful guides in Rio that speak perfect English that would be willing to assist.

... Great idea, and I'd certainly be willing to help arrange it for us.

I think that is a GREAT IDEA for newbies to experience a trip to Brazil. Not only are the cost benefits very attractive but it is daunting for a newbie to underake all of the first time challenges that come with visiting a foreign country where the object is to meet guys whose language you do not speak. Even in saunas where everyone is gathered for common reasons, communication is a high barrier for the newbie to overcome in his head. Add to that the logistics of getting around in a foreign city with foreign currency and security issues -- it is a no-brainer for the newbie IMO.

If I were in a position to undertake it, I'd sign on in a nanosecond. With good publicity, I'd think your concern would be limiting the size of the party for practical considerations.

[Guest lurkerspeaks]

If I were in a position to undertake it, I'd sign on in a nanosecond. With good publicity, I'd think your concern would be limiting the size of the party for practical considerations.

I agree it would be a great idea to plan a "Rio Fieldtrip" for newbies and veterans. I always enjoy meeting others who share my interests..and when you go to places like Rio and Montreal, it is nice to "have some grown up company" as the great "newatthis" from Daddy's put it so eloquently.

The main barrier I could forsee would be to find a time when you could get the most people to agree to.. Everyone obviously has outside factors which effect when they can or cannot take vacation. Even though May seems a long ways away now, a date that far away would give plenty of time for people to hopefully be able to arrange things. I would definitely be interested in attending if I can arrange the time with my new job..I would only be able to make it for one week, but that is better than nothing at all..

[TampaYankee]

I agree it would be a great idea to plan a "Rio Fieldtrip" for newbies and veterans. I always enjoy meeting others who share my interests..and when you go to places like Rio and Montreal, it is nice to "have some grown up company" as the great "newatthis" from Daddy's put it so eloquently.

Very true. I agree. However, with any 'group' there will be differing tastes and priorities and maybe several who share the same tastes and feel a little competition. Therefore it is advisable to collaborate on common issues and to help get the feet wet, but also advisable to break into smaller groups of shared interests like shopping, sight seeing, and trips to the saunas -- different saunas and different times, etc. Trying to maintain everyone joined at the hip would be daunting task and invite friction and discord. There is much to be gained in cooperation and at the same time recognize individual imperatives too.

[Guest drey]

Very true. I agree. However, with any 'group' there will be differing tastes and priorities and maybe several who share the same tastes and feel a little competition. Therefore it is advisable to collaborate on common issues and to help get the feet wet, but also advisable to break into smaller groups of shared interests like shopping, sight seeing, and trips to the saunas -- different saunas and different times, etc. Trying to maintain everyone joined at the hip would be daunting task and invite friction and discord. There is much to be gained in cooperation and at the same time recognize individual imperatives too.

TampaYankee, I agree and that's something that's been brought up in the past. No one, including myself, wants to go on a set tour where you have to show up at designated times for a bunch of planned events. And I'm sure as you mentioned, everyone will have their own idea of a perfect time, and I'm not volunteering to be "Julie, the cruise director" LOL

I'd envision an orientation, some site seeing events, and first-time sauna visits for the "newbies". Maybe a trip to some "not so well-known" spots for the veterans like the island of Paqueta, the nude beach, or a train ride up to Santa Teresa. Some night club/bar scene outings, non-escort saunas and maybe Gayligula for the younger set that cares to join us. An optional shopping tour in Uruguiana, etc.

The first half of May is a great time of year in Rio. It's not overly hot then, like the sweltering 100 degree F weather I experienced during Carnaval. There's typically less rain during the month, and it's a relatively slow time for the hotels. I've started some preliminary conversations with the Atlantico and Atlantis so that there would be some competition. And, I'll talk to the sauna owners while I'm there to see if there is interest in promoting them and arranging discounts.

The hotels will probably dictate the exact dates, but I was thinking 10 days would be a good compromise for a complete experience and affordability. Those wanting to stay longer could certainly stay as long as they wanted, but probably at a higher rate.

So those were my thoughts, and TotallyOz might have some more ideas and suggestions.

E-mail me at: info@gaytravelbrazil.com if you'd like to chat more.

Drey

[TampaYankee]

I'd envision an orientation, some site seeing events, and first-time sauna visits for the "newbies". Maybe a trip to some "not so well-known" spots for the veterans like the island of Paqueta, the nude beach, or a train ride up to Santa Teresa. Some night club/bar scene outings, non-escort saunas and maybe Gayligula for the younger set that cares to join us. An optional shopping tour in Uruguiana, etc.

Drey,

Would you elaborate on these venues for those of us who have no knowledge of them? Thanks.

[Guest drey]

Drey,

Would you elaborate on these venues for those of us who have no knowledge of them? Thanks.

There are many hidden gems very close to Rio that many long-time travelers have yet to discover. There's a nude beach located south of Rio that's a bit of drive but well worth it.

Actually, there are many pristine beaches north and south of Rio including Buzio's to the north, and Paraty to the south, including Angra da Reis.

A very inexpensive day trip is to the island of Paqueta. It's about a $3 boat ride to the island each way, and setting foot on the island is like stepping back in time. Horse-drawn carriages, beautiful beaches, and a village atmosphere where no cars are allowed. You'd need to check the local schedules from Praca Quinze though since the boats run at certain times during the day. But, you'll get to see much of the bay and a view of Niteroi during your boat trip.

It's a nice diversion to take a cute Brazilian away from the Rio city life, and it's about a 90 minute, enjoyable boat ride.

Gayligula is a circuit party type of atmosphere for the younger set, or young at heart, who are brave enough to partake.

There really are many ways to enjoy a unique Rio experience away from the more expensive tourist draws.

- Drey

[Guest drey]

There are many hidden gems very close to Rio that many long-time travelers have yet to discover. There's a nude beach located south of Rio that's a bit of drive but well worth it.

Actually, there are many pristine beaches north and south of Rio including Buzio's to the north, and Paraty to the south, including Angra da Reis.

A very inexpensive day trip is to the island of Paqueta. It's about a $3 boat ride to the island each way, and setting foot on the island is like stepping back in time. Horse-drawn carriages, beautiful beaches, and a village atmosphere where no cars are allowed. You'd need to check the local schedules from Praca Quinze though since the boats run at certain times during the day. But, you'll get to see much of the bay and a view of Niteroi during your boat trip.

It's a nice diversion to take a cute Brazilian away from the Rio city life, and it's about a 90 minute, enjoyable boat ride.

Gayligula is a circuit party type of atmosphere for the younger set, or young at heart, who are brave enough to partake.

There really are many ways to enjoy a unique Rio experience away from the more expensive tourist draws.

- Drey

I overlooked your mention of Santa Teresa.

Me and Madonna seem to be of the same opinion that a favorite restaurant of ours is located atop the hills of Santa Teresa. I spent my last birthday at a restaurant called Aprazivel that she had booked earlier that week during Carnaval.

You could take a taxi up, but the scenic journey involves a small train that will take you up the winding hills. You can catch it at a station downtown.

Aprazivel has a perfect view of the city below, literally in the tree tops. I watched the fireworks from the Sambadrome during the Champion's Parade last February.

So many aspects of Rio that a typical tourist would not have the chance to enjoy.

- Drey

[TampaYankee]

I overlooked your mention of Santa Teresa.

Me and Madonna seem to be of the same opinion that a favorite restaurant of ours is located atop the hills of Santa Teresa. I spent my last birthday at a restaurant called Aprazivel that she had booked earlier that week during Carnaval.

You could take a taxi up, but the scenic journey involves a small train that will take you up the winding hills. You can catch it at a station downtown.

Aprazivel has a perfect view of the city below, literally in the tree tops. I watched the fireworks from the Sambadrome during the Champion's Parade last February.

So many aspects of Rio that a typical tourist would not have the chance to enjoy.

- Drey

Thanks Drey for elaborating on the venues. They sound absolutley delicious although I suspect zoning reguations would keep me off the nude beach.

[axiom2001]

Thanks Drey for elaborating on the venues. They sound absolutley delicious although I suspect zoning reguations would keep me off the nude beach.

After watching a travel segment on Logo television last week where the aforementioned restaurant was featured, I decided to list it as a "Must Go" if I manage to return to Rio de janeiro next October. I am anxious to return to experience new adventures as well as reacquaint myself with some previous ones which I cherish and highly remember.

I am elated to read that one of our own board members here has been there and highly recommends it. The television segment featuring this venue from a "gay" viewpoint was refreshing! From what we've gotten here, I'm enthusiastic, too!