RIOgaleão International Airport

Arrive in Rio, Brazil

Rehearsal Dinner

Mansão Alvite

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Our Story

Photos

Wedding Party

💍 Wedding Guest Travel Q&amp;A Destination: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 🇧🇷🛂 Do I need a visa to travel to Brazil?Yes. As of 2025, U.S. citizens must obtain an e-visa before traveling to Brazil.Apply online through the official Brazilian government e-visa portal. You’ll need a valid passport, a recent photo, flight details, and proof of accommodation.The e-visa usually takes 5–10 business days to process and is valid for multiple entries within its validity period.Once approved, print a copy and save a digital backup on your phone to show at check-in and upon arrival.(Tip: Avoid third-party visa sites that charge extra — always use the official link provided on our wedding website.) 🪪 Do I need a passport?Yes! Your U.S. passport must be:Valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date in Brazil.Contain at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps.If your passport is close to expiring, renew it before applying for your e-visa. 🛬 Which airport should I fly into?Fly into Galeão International Airport (GIG) — also called Rio de Janeiro–Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport.Located about 25–40 minutes from most central Rio neighborhoods (like Copacabana and Ipanema).Most major U.S. airlines (Delta, American, United) have flights connecting through Miami, Atlanta, Houston, or New York.There’s also a smaller airport, Santos Dumont (SDU), for domestic connections within Brazil. 🚕 What’s the best way to get from the airport to my hotel?Here are your options:Ride-share apps (Uber, 99): Safe, reliable, and inexpensive.Official airport taxis: Prepaid stands inside the arrivals area — set your destination and pay a flat rate before exiting.Private transfer: Perfect for groups or late-night arrivals (we can help arrange this if needed).Hotel transfers: Check if your hotel offers a pick-up service.(Pro tip: Avoid unlicensed taxis outside the terminal.) 💵 What currency does Brazil use?Brazil uses the Brazilian Real (BRL).Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s smart to have cash for small purchases, taxis, or tips.ATMs are available at GIG airport and in most major neighborhoods.You can also exchange USD for Reais at the airport or local exchange offices (look for “Casa de Câmbio”). 🌎 Do I need to speak Portuguese?Not necessarily! Many people in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas speak at least some English. Still, locals appreciate it if you try a few words in Portuguese — or use Google Translate for quick help. 🏖️ Where are we staying in Rio?We recommend staying in Zona Sul (South Zone) — especially Copacabana beach. These neighborhoods are:Close to beaches and restaurants.Easy for transportation and sightseeing. ❤️ When should I arrive?We suggest arriving 2–3 days before the wedding to rest, explore, and adjust to the time difference. There’s plenty to enjoy — from Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain to Copacabana Beach and the Selarón Steps! 🧳 Before You Fly: Your Brazil Travel Checklist✅ Passport – Valid for 6+ months after your trip. ✅ E-Visa – Apply online and print your approval. ✅ Flight Confirmation – Double-check arrival at GIG (Rio de Janeiro International). ✅ Hotel or Airbnb Booking – Keep address handy for customs. ✅ Airport Transfer – Book or plan your transportation in advance. ✅ Travel Insurance – Recommended for international travel. ✅ Vaccinations – None required, but consider checking CDC travel advisories. ✅ Currency – Bring or withdraw a small amount of Brazilian Reais (BRL). ✅ Adapters – Brazil uses Type N plugs (similar to Type C); voltage is usually 127V or 220V depending on the area. ✅ Weather – Rio’s climate is tropical! Expect warm temperatures — pack light, breathable clothes, beachwear, sunscreen, and insect repellent. ✅ Emergency Contacts – Save hotel, airline, and our wedding contact numbers offline.

Q + A

We’re so happy to celebrate this special moment with you. ​ All guests will be staying at the Windsor Leme Hotel, beautifully located right on Copacabana Beach. Please send your reservation confirmation to Darrell or Rachel so Hotel Management can ensure that your room is located close to the wedding party. We can’t wait to share this unforgettable celebration with

Windsor Hotel Leme

Travel- New Hotel Info

Join us for a visit to one of the seven wonders of the world! More details to come.

Christ The Redeemer

The preferred hotel is located on Copa Cabana Beach! 

Copa Cabana Beach

Escadaria Selaron

Things to Do

Registry

https://brazil.vfsevisa.com/

All US passport holders must apply for an E-Visa to enter Brazil. Please apply for a Visa after you have secured your flight and hotel, as this information will be required for the Visa application.

How to apply 1st step: Provide the Application details and upload the necessary Documents. You can apply for your visa through the VFS-managed platform using your computer or mobile phone. The first step of the eVisa application is to register your account on the website. Provide all the requested information and upload the necessary documents. For minors, it is necessary to upload additional documents click here for more information. In this step, you will have to select the country as per the passport that you hold. If you have dual nationality, you must select the nationality of the passport that you will use for your travel. 2nd step: Pay the fee: After providing all the required information, you will need to pay the fee through the payment gateway. You can pay the fees with Mastercard/Visa credit and debit cards. Visa Fee: Australia, Canada and the United States. $80.00. VFS Service Fee: Australia, Canada and the United States $0.90 3rd step: Download the eVisa Upon successful payment of the fee, you will receive an email confirming the status of your application. This email will indicate whether your application has been approved, rejected, or if additional documentation is required. If your application is approved, you will be emailed a PDF file containing your eVisa. It is essential to download, print, and present your eVisa at the time of boarding and landing in Brazil. Additionally, we recommend keeping a copy of the file on your mobile phone for easy access. Important note: If you fail to print and present your eVisa at the airport, you will not be permitted to board the plane. If the applicant is a minor, it is necessary to submit an authorization form filled and signed by one or both parents. Please download the authorization form by clicking on this link and upload it to the minor's application.

Rachel & Darrell Brandon

Rachel & Darrell Brandon

R&D

Arrive in Rio, Brazil

Rehearsal Dinner

Wedding Day

Reception