A Group Sauna Tour to Rio in May

[Guest drey]

We had chatted about this on another thread and I had agreed to help organize it for those interested.

But, I think it would be a great opportunity for first-time travelers, as well as, veterans that would like to meet up at a common time. I know I've met some great friends over the years, but our schedules haven't seemed to work out.

So, this should give you plenty of time to plan ahead.

And, the only reason I volunteered is because I'd like to think we have a little more clout with the hotels, drivers, and tour guides due to the business we've booked through them over the years, and the relationships we've developed. Although, with these days of unpredictable currency exchange rates and Brazilian inflation, it still can be challenging.

So, we chose some dates where there seems to be a good bit of empty airline seats, the hotels should be hungry for business, and the weather should be great in Rio. And, also considering those who might not want to commit to a longer trip for budget reasons.

The departure date is May 3, 2011, and the return date is May 12, 2011, or departing on a Tuesday and returning on a week after on a Thurday. Mid-week is actually the least expensive days to fly.

I personally, did not get to meet with Junior of Pointe 202 and Monique of 117, but a friend that knows both of them very well, has agreed to talk to them. Our affiliate is meeting with the Hotel Atlantico next week. But, I'm sure all are going to ask how many are coming.

So far, we have half a dozen that have committed, but if there's any interest at all, please email me at: info@gaytravelbrazil.com so we can approach them with the largest number possible. Or, you can also post here with additional questions.

I hope to work with TotallyOz and Daddy to create an advertisement that should generate more interest as well.

And, this is not a "for profit" endeavour, although some options may be offered. I think LurkerSpeaks would agree that we were even a bit less than the least expensive website we were able to find on agoda.com

But, I need to know the interest level, so we can better negotiate the trip. So please email me at: info@gaytravelbrazil.com, if you're interested at all. And, we can also arrange a payment plan over the next few months so you're not hit with a big bill once you arrive.

If you've ever read TomCal's posts or the adventures of TotallyOz and yearned to be there, I sincerely think this would be your best opportunity.

- Drey

[Guest lurkerspeaks]

I will definitely agree that Drey has always been able to meet or beat the best rate I could find for the Atlantico in my two trips to Rio. Not sure if it matters to others or not, but doesn't Mother's Day fall within the dates you have chosen?

I see both sides of a group trip...The good side is having the cameraderie of fellow posters for sightseeing, dinners, etc....as well as the "guidance" offered to the Rio-virgins.

But on the down side, would you really want 6 or 10 or however many other Americans all trying to get the attention of the same sauna boys while you are there. It is pretty well known that when there are Americans present in the saunas, the boy's rates go up. The old "supply and demand" at its finest.

I have been lucky to have a great travel friend who I have made the trip to Rio with on both occasions. He had been to Rio a few times before so he was able to help me "learn my way around".

So, I guess what I am saying is if a "group trip" does happen, I would recommend that the group splinters off into several smaller groups when it comes time to do the saunas. One group goes to 117 at a specific time on a specific day, while another group does to MM at the same time on the same date..etc.. so instead of one large group all vying for the boys attentions, they are spread out..

Maybe have a planned time to meet for meals for those so inclined. Once everyone gets the "feel" for Rio, the saunas, and the areas around the hotel, then the smaller groups might even split into smaller groups..

I can't imagine a dozen or more gay men all getting along with each other all the time--all being content to do the same things. IMO, the group activities are great for those who want to join in, but free time and alone time are necesities as well.

But I am sure we all can appreciate any group rates that could be arranged for hotels/air, etc...

I am interested, but would probably only be able to stay 6 nites. Not sure about the week over Mother's day, since I am in the restaurant/hospitality industry.

[Guest drey]

I see both sides of a group trip...The good side is having the cameraderie of fellow posters for sightseeing, dinners, etc....as well as the "guidance" offered to the Rio-virgins.

I can't imagine a dozen or more gay men all getting along with each other all the time--all being content to do the same things. IMO, the group activities are great for those who want to join in, but free time and alone time are necesities as well.

But I am sure we all can appreciate any group rates that could be arranged for hotels/air, etc...

I am interested, but would probably only be able to stay 6 nites. Not sure about the week over Mother's day, since I am in the restaurant/hospitality industry.

Hi LurkerSpeaks, and the thought definitely crossed my mind there might be some competition within the group. And as I said in the other thread, this would not be an organized tour, just an opportunity for like-minded travelers to get together and hopefully enjoy the discounted rates. But, I don't see us swarming one particular sauna on a given night. We would most likely break into smaller groups wanting to go to different saunas on a given night. But, I think it would be nice for each group to have a guide/translator to accompany you, give directions, and help with the communications aspect.

I've traveled with groups in the past, and usually it is not a problem. From my experience, we all have different tastes in guys and also what we prefer to do with them. Plus, we're renting them, not marrying them LOL And, I'd hope there wouldn't be any jealousy involved.

But the guys are entrepreneurs, just like the airlines and the hotels. Most will understand the value of volume pricing with the promise of future business from the group, meals, and a new introduction to someone they can send their e-mails of a sick grandmother to

Sorry, the dates don't work out for you. Blame it on American Airlines, and their seating availability since those are the only dates available for 40K miles.

But if this works out, they'll be future trips planned as well, I'm sure.

- Drey

[Guest lurkerspeaks]

Sorry, the dates don't work out for you. Blame it on American Airlines, and their seating availability since those are the only dates available for 40K miles.

But if this works out, they'll be future trips planned as well, I'm sure.

- Drey

I am not saying I wont be able to make it then.. just not sure yet...I had been thinking of a May trip, just a little later in the month...I might be able to take it earlier in the month.. But as a humble working guy, I can't be gone for more than a week.. I have miles on Continental for my flight, and by then should have enough to do first class for the trip there, then peasant class on the way back home...if they open up the availability...

[TotallyOz]

Put me on a definite Maybe. I never know till time gets closer where I'll be. But, I'd love to be there.

I don't think the competition is an issue. Clients need to remember that once they are done with a boy that someone else may have a go. It should not be a jealousy issue. That is stupid. The boys are there to work and are no one's possession. They can easily handle 3 or 5 guys in one day.

On my last trip with Tomcal to Porto Alegre, his friend and I have the exact same tastes. I did not want to interfere with his fun so he went with the boys he wanted and when he was out of the room, I took them up for another short time. The boys were happy and so were his customers.

PS I put an announcement on the home page about this. If you have an banner that you do for this send to me and I'll put there as well!

[axiom2001]

I will definitely agree that Drey has always been able to meet or beat the best rate I could find for the Atlantico in my two trips to Rio. Not sure if it matters to others or not, but doesn't Mother's Day fall within the dates you have chosen?

I see both sides of a group trip...The good side is having the cameraderie of fellow posters for sightseeing, dinners, etc....as well as the "guidance" offered to the Rio-virgins.

But on the down side, would you really want 6 or 10 or however many other Americans all trying to get the attention of the same sauna boys while you are there. It is pretty well known that when there are Americans present in the saunas, the boy's rates go up. The old "supply and demand" at its finest.

I have been lucky to have a great travel friend who I have made the trip to Rio with on both occasions. He had been to Rio a few times before so he was able to help me "learn my way around".

So, I guess what I am saying is if a "group trip" does happen, I would recommend that the group splinters off into several smaller groups when it comes time to do the saunas. One group goes to 117 at a specific time on a specific day, while another group does to MM at the same time on the same date..etc.. so instead of one large group all vying for the boys attentions, they are spread out..

Lurker..., your remarks are salient ones as well as timely. I wholeheartedly agree with you. When I went to Festa II in October of, I think, 2004, there were about 20+ gay men staying at The Atlantico Copacabana Hotel. I think everyone went to the saunas that were operating during our visit, but although this was a somewhat group thing--each man went in his own direction during his stay except for attending the rooftop party (which was fab in terms of the ambience.

Although other men who have written at this site as well as two other familiar ones took a heavy role in the planning of the event-- we can all thank (Guess Who?) :smile: for bringing on all of that hot, hot masculinity. Approximately 30-40 boys, principally from the saunas, were our guests. It worked from guests to clients....

The only down side was the visibililty of so many sauna boys who congregated in the lobby at various points of the day, an overflow of them at breakfast, and the somewhat 24/7 open door at the hotel. Once the festa (party) had ended and all of us had returned to our respective countries and abodes, The Atlantico changed its tune regarding outside guests; this lasted for a while; then they went back to their "open guest policy."

But, at any rate, I truly appreciate what you wrote, for it made much sense and tied in what I'd somewhat experience when I went to the FESTA II, an experience that I shall always remember!!

And lastly--I'd love to be amongst the mix in May of 2011, but I am seriously thinking about returning to Rio later in 2011. As a man who is retired and is on a fixed income, I can only manage two international trips per year at this particular time!

Maybe have a planned time to meet for meals for those so inclined. Once everyone gets the "feel" for Rio, the saunas, and the areas around the hotel, then the smaller groups might even split into smaller groups..

I can't imagine a dozen or more gay men all getting along with each other all the time--all being content to do the same things. IMO, the group activities are great for those who want to join in, but free time and alone time are necesities as well.

But I am sure we all can appreciate any group rates that could be arranged for hotels/air, etc...

I am interested, but would probably only be able to stay 6 nites. Not sure about the week over Mother's day, since I am in the restaurant/hospitality industry.

[stripfan]

I am definitely interested; not sure about timing of trip but certainly keep me in the mix!

thanks to all, especially Tomcal for all his info and pics!

stripfan

[Guest FourAces]

I too have an interest. Drey can you give us a ballpark on cost?

[Guest lurkerspeaks]

I too have an interest. Drey can you give us a ballpark on cost?

I (obviously) am not Drey.. so I am speaking from my own experiences..For my trips back in Nov of '08 and '09, Drey got me a rate at the Atlantico of around $120/nt USD, which was inclusive of taxes and breakfast daily. Not sure what kind of group discount he is negotiating. Airfare will depend on where you are flying from/airline you use, etc. As far as spending money, it again will depend on your, ummm, appetite for things....Lets just say that someone like Tomcal who has multiple "friends" on most days/nights will spend quite a bit more than someone who has a lower stamina...

In my visits, I went to the saunas each nite I was there (6 nites), hired one boy on most nites, and the occasional twosome...I did not do any overnites...I ended up spending around $1000-$1200 USD on boys, food, sightseeing, etc.. I was lucky enough to have a good friend (TxAlphadog) with me who knew his way around, so we did most sightseeing on our own without a paid guide. Our one "splurge" was a guided open jeep tour of a rainforest..We booked it thru the hotel front desk, and it cost around R100 each.. You could get by cheaper... you could spend a lot more.. it all depends on your style, your tastes, etc. Hope this helps until Drey is able to get more info out.

[Guest tomcal]

I just looked on Agoda.com and the Atlantico Hotel is $89.U.S./nt

for May 3rd - 12th! that's the best price I have seen there in along time! I paid $118. last month.

The saunas admission is roughly $15.00.U.S. so if you go to both Meo Mundo and 117 the same night or Pointe, double or triple that. the #of boys you do a night is the big variable. Certain nights rooms are free at the three saunas so if you go up rooms multiple times a night this can save you money by going on the "free Cabine Nights"! Some guys pay their "dates" consistently $100.R others closer to $50.R so this can double your costs depending on how good your negotiating skills and resistence to a hot Brazilian sitting next to you! :-)

We used to spend relatively little on food as we ate dinner most nights at Corujinhas(hustler)restaurant, which is inexpensive but the last year or so we have been going more often to the nicer restaurants in Ipanema in the gay neighborhood off of Farme de Amoedo and this had probably more than doubled our dinner costs... so alot of the costs after hotel and airfare is variable depending on your tastes and expectations.

I have been to Rio several times in May and the Hot weather of summer is over but you will typically find most days in mid to high 70's.

[Guest drey]

Right now, it's really about the numbers of those that might be interested.

And, it's very important that you send us an e-mail at: info@gaytravelbrazil.com to register you as a potential traveler during that time. It's in no way a commitment, but it will allow us to represent ourselves as a larger group and to show the hotels we are serious.

But, please don't overly obsess with the hotel rate, however I noticed the same rate and we will mention the Agoda rate to them as a baseline. And, as LurkerSpeaks aptly pointed out, the entertainment costs of the guys, sauna admissions, tours, paying cab fares versus having a shared private van, etc. can greatly add to the cost of your trip. Even more so than the cost of your hotel stay.

And, we've had a few contact us from this site. So far, we have around 8-10 confirmed travelers all-around, and a few that have expressed an interest.

Just to reiterate though, I'm sure there will be many more guys attending knowing there will be a larger group of us. I could probably call up 20 of my favorites that would be there. Tomcal, probably 40. LOL

We're still in the process of negotiating with the hotels at this point, just to give you an update. And, even though there needs to be a level of discretion involved, they should bend the normal rules a bit for the group. But Axiom, nothing similar to years past, unless we can book the entire hotel, and sign waiver forms

- Drey

[Guest lurkerspeaks]

Drey,

What are the chances of any special hotel rate if someone is able to overlap your chosen dates? I am hoping to make it down around that time, but it looks like I will possibly be arriving right before you guys depart (I am thinking of arrival on the 11th, departing the 17th). Not sure what the new job is going to be able to allow, but I am already mentioning it to hopefully get some dates decided soon..

[Guest drey]

Hi Lurker,

It may mean you would get the discount during the overlap, but you're not the first to ask me that question.

Even if you can only overlap part of the time, the hotel should count you with our group.

Look forward to seeing you, and hopefully, many others there.

- Drey

[TotallyOz]

Drey, I have not sent an e-mail as I won't know until closer to the date. But, I am defiantly interested.

Is this in Rio the whole time?

[axiom2001]

Drey, I have not sent an e-mail as I won't know until closer to the date. But, I am defiantly interested.

Is this in Rio the whole time?

Oz, you know that I am not Drey, but I decided to respond based on my understanding of the initial thread: this visit is only to Rio de janeiro during the specified days with a few modifications per Lurkerspeak's latter threads!

But if I am mistaken, please forgive me!

[TotallyOz]

Oz, you know that I am not Drey, but I decided to respond based on my understanding of the initial thread: this visit is only to Rio de janeiro during the specified days with a few modifications per Lurkerspeak's latter threads!

But if I am mistaken, please forgive me!

No problem Ax. If that is the case, then I don't see where the number of customers would inhibit the scene. In other words, there are so many boys in Rio that I can't imagine if 15-20 were in one sauna that the place would be void of boys because all of them were taken. On the contrary, I think they would call their friends and say, "hey, we have a big money here. get your ass on the subway QUICK."

[Guest drey]

No problem Ax. If that is the case, then I don't see where the number of customers would inhibit the scene. In other words, there are so many boys in Rio that I can't imagine if 15-20 were in one sauna that the place would be void of boys because all of them were taken. On the contrary, I think they would call their friends and say, "hey, we have a big money here. get your ass on the subway QUICK."

Hey Guys, and sorry for the short lapse.

Yes, the entire time would be in Rio during those dates. Not that I don't appreciate the other cities, but Rio probably still has the largest and most consistent sauna scene.

I heard tonight that Meio Mundo has a fresh new crop of cute guys, evidently looking to make money for the holiday season. And, the strippers were totally naked by the end of their performance.

And yes TotallyOz, I did include you in the total we presented to the hotels.

I do have to say I'm a little disappointed in the first round of contacting the Hotel Atlantico, the Hotel Atlantis, and the Majestic through one affiliate. They quoted around US$ 110 per night, including taxes, with payment due March 15, with the Hotel Atlantico being slightly higher.

But, Agoda.com is quoting around US$ 103 per night without there being a group, so I've got some more work to do.

It's never easy dealing with American pricing from the hotels. Can ya'll speak Portuguese LOL

TomCal, how has your luck been with agoda.com?

- Drey

[Guest tomcal]

TomCal, how has your luck been with agoda.com?

- Drey

Drey I just checked and agoda.com is quoting the Atlantico for $89./nt for that week! So I think the Atlantico is doing to you what you do to the boys down there! :-)

I have used them the last couple of years for both Brazil and Europe, they are very reliable and they are very good if you have to cancel or change dates which I have done several times! the only place I have found where they can't get me a cheaper rate is the Sheraton in Porto Alegre! but they are consistently cheaper than travelocity/orbitz/hotels.com etc

[Guest drey]

Drey I just checked and agoda.com is quoting the Atlantico for $89./nt for that week! So I think the Atlantico is doing to you what you do to the boys down there! :-)

I have used them the last couple of years for both Brazil and Europe, they are very reliable and they are very good if you have to cancel or change dates which I have done several times! the only place I have found where they can't get me a cheaper rate is the Sheraton in Porto Alegre! but they are consistently cheaper than travelocity/orbitz/hotels.com etc

Hey TomCal, I saw the $89 per night, but when I went to book it, it comes to more like US$ 103 including the taxes. The rate I mentioned had the taxes already added in.

So, they're fairly close, but you're right and I think they should be doing more for us.

This is only the first round of talking to them though.

Both are fairly good prices though, compared to what is available elsewhere. And, it should give the group an idea of the cost.

And thanks for sharing your experience with them.

- Drey

[pauleiro]

As I wrote to Drey, I will likely join the group but with slightly different dates (in Europe, we do everything differently !). If I arrive later tha most of you, pls make sure you do not completely exhaust the boys before my arrival. Paulo

[pauleiro]

As I wrote to Drey, I will likely join the group but with slightly different dates (in Europe, we do everything differently !). If I arrive later tha most of you, pls make sure you do not completely exhaust the boys before my arrival. Paulo

Just learned that I will not be able to leave at that period of time. Too bad ! I will have to wait until December until I am back in Rio and not with the Group ! I am sure it will be a lot of fun. Enjoy it !

[axiom2001]

Is this tour still on? What's the current update? Although I will be unable to go, I am interested because I'm yearning to read about the experiences of the guys who participate in this event!!!!!

[Guest drey]

Yes it is still on, although as has been my experience in the past with these events, the interest has waned some.

The departure date is May 3, 2011, and the return date is May 12, 2011, or departing on a Tuesday and returning on a week after on a Thurday. Mid-week is actually the least expensive days to fly.

I've been a little discouraged by the hotel responses. There's been some staff and management changes at the Hotel Atlantico which has been a favorite of ours in the past for gay travelers... some signs that it may not be as gay-friendly as in years past.

Plus, it seems that everyone has made different arrangements for the airline flights which seem to be rising in price daily.

The value of the US Dollar today was the lowest it's been since 2008, and so there's been some unpredictable negative impacts since we discussed this.

Not quite the discount I had planned, but some have booked their stay at the Hotel Atlantico using http://www.dhr.com and have gotten a rate of US$ 104 per night including taxes.

But yet, many of us will be there and our guides will be on hand to assist first-time travelers, and it still remains a great time to visit Rio.

- Drey