YO U A R E N O W O N YO U R WAY With this brochure in your hands the best of Brazil is now at your fingertips.
Jose Gherardi President Chairman of the Board
Whether you are considering your first trip to this fascinating country or returning to explore its countless offerings, the North American members of the Brazil Tour Operator Association found here are the experts who can make your dream trip a reality. Our 30+ qualified tour operator members are knowledgeable and experienced travel professionals who have met our stringent membership requirements. And just as important, they are passionate about Brazil and all that it offers! Each member is dedicated to providing you with service, value and expertise — a winning combination of benefits! From Rio to cultural tourism in Salvador da Bahia; from jungle lodges
in the Amazon to deluxe beach hideaways on the Northeast Coast, no matter what your interest, there is a BTOA member that can help you. Along with our valued Allied and Associate Members which include: airlines, hotels, local businesses, states and municipalities, Embratur, and our strategic partners, we are proud to serve both travel agents and the traveler as your one-stopshopping solution for all your travel planning. You now have Brazil in your hands; please contact us to begin your journey! y, Sincerely,
Jose Gherardi
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Arthur Berman Vice President & Chairman of the Road Show Committee Regina Frasseto Director & Chairwoman of Site & Fam Trips Adam Carter Director at Large
Joao de Matos Director & Treasurer at Large Monica Irauzqui Director at Large Carlos Zucher Director at Large
Past Presidents Adam Carter 2007-2011 | Liberal Lopes 2005-2007
BTOA Headquarters 888 Main Street, 4th Fl. New York, NY 10044 646-722-9901 | info@braziltouroperators.org | www.braziltouroperators.org
BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
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President’s Welcome ................................................ Page 1 Member Information ................................................ Page 3 About BTOA ............................................................ Page 4 Destination of the Year ............................................. Page 7 Welcome to Rio by Paulo Senise...............................Page 8 Active Members .................................................... Page 12 Rio de Janeiro by Meredith Pillon........................... Page 30 Allied Members ..................................................... Page 32 Associate Members ................................................ Page 36 Affiliate Member ................................................... Page 37 Strategic Partners ................................................... Page 39 Brazil Bound by Carla Hunt....................................Page 40
MEMBER LISTINGS American Adventure Travel .................................... Page 12 Abreu Tours ........................................................... Page 12 Air Projects Travel .................................................. Page 13 Avanti Destinations................................................ Page 13 Borello Travel & Tours ............................................ Page 14 Brazillian Vacation Center.......................................Page 14 Brazil Nuts Tours ................................................... Page 15 Brendan Worldwide Vacations ................................Page 15 BROL.com ............................................................ Page 16 Chanteclair Travel .................................................. Page 16 Cox and Kings USA ............................................... Page 17 Discover Brazil Tours ............................................. Page 17 Dumonde Travel .................................................... Page 18 Fredson.Com ......................................................... Page 18 Globo Travel & Tours ............................................. Page 19 Globus Family of Brands ........................................ Page 19 Hotur Just Brazil Vacations..................................... Page 22 Latour ................................................................... Page 22 Marnella Tours ...................................................... Page 21 Only Latin America Tours ....................................... Page 21 PanAmerican Travel Services .................................. Page 24 SITA World Tours ................................................... Page 24 SouthAmerica.travel............................................... Page 25 Tauck .................................................................... Page 25 Travel Impressions ................................................. Page 26 Travel 2 Brazil ....................................................... Page 26 VIP Brazil / VIP Tour Group .................................... Page 27 Yampu................................................................... Page 27
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BTOA MEMBERSHIP TYPES Active Members | Qualified North American travel professionals and tour operators who have been in business for more than three years and have an emphasis on Brazil in their product brochures and website. Allied Members | Airlines, hotel chains, individual hotels and pousadas, cruise lines, transportation companies, entertainment venues, and retail stores of interest to travelers. Associate Members | Brazilian State Tourist Offices, Convention and Visitors Bureaus, and Municipal and Regional Tourism Authorities who are empowered to promote their destinations to the North American markets. Affiliate Members | North American based travel service providers, such as visa and passport companies, or US media partners Destination of the Year | The State, City, or Region showcased by the BTOA for a full year. Our association is now recognized as the leading organization of professionals selling Brazil in North America. If you are a North American based tour operator selling Brazil, we invite you to be a part of our dynamic and growing organization. Membershp wtih the BTOA carries many benefits for your business. If you’re a Brazilian private company or public organization involved in travel and tourism, don’t miss the opportunity afforded by this powerful promotional platform. For more information or to join, please contact our membership committee at membership@braziltouroperators.org
BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
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About the BTOA The Brazil Tour Operators Association (BTOA) is a not-for-profit organization registered in New York in March 2005, we are dedicated to promoting tourism to Brazil from North America.
OU R AI M S & OBJ E C TI V E S
H OW W E M E E T T HOSE OBJ E C TI V E S
To improve public awareness of BTOA travel organization companies as the go to Brazil Travel specialists in the North American makets
Advertising and public relations campaigns that feature Brazil, our Destination of the Year, and our members
To improve public awareness of Brazil as a tourism destination for North American travellers To promote travel industry professionalism and skills through education and training. To bring together representatives of BTOA regularly in order to develop a closer working relationship and create a better understanding of travel matters relating to Brazil. To inform and advise Brazil travel suppliers on requirements of the USA market place. To organize promotional events on behalf of members.
FAM trips and Site inspections that educate our tour operator members how to best sell brazil Roadshow events throughout North America designed especially for qualified travel agencies. Webinars for members and travel trade allow our partners in Brazil to teach and sell their products/destinations Brazil Trade Show and Brazil Gala dinner annually Socail Media programs such as facebook and twitter Monthly newsletters to inform our members and trades about upcoming BTOA promtions and events specific to the North American Markets
Brazil Now | Specials packages to Brazil from our Tour Operator Members
ongoing
Brazil Now Visa Pass | The BTOA Brazil Now Visa Pass is a coupon book that provides you with the means to more than recover the monies ($140 per person) that you had to spend in order to obtain your Brazilian Visa. Site Inspection and FAM Trips | Enhancing their expertise, member participants gain continuing professional education of a destination and have the opportunity to personally develop valuable business contacts. BTOA Road Shows | Join other BTOA members as we travel through 6-7 cities offering presentations, breakfasts, luncheons, and dinners with a focus on Brazil to local travel professionals. Seminars and Workshops | Whether stand alone or in conjunction with EMBRATUR or State Tourism Authorities, the BTOA is ready to assist Allied and Associate members with educational and promotional events or online webinars for the United States market. BTOA Trade Show and Gala Dinner | We proudly offer this annual opportunity to all members to exhibit their products to the travel trade and press, raise money for the BTOA Cares program, and celebrate member achievements. Marketing Initiatives| Our website, PR, various advertising campaigns
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BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
D E S T I N AT I O N O F T H E Y E A R
de Janeiro The city of Rio de Janeiro, with its fabulous setting, is suited to all tastes. This offers everyone the opportunity to become acquainted with the many charming aspects that this incredible city has to offer! The unique landscape of Rio makes it different from other destinations of the world. Here, the city stretches itself on the seashore between the ocean beaches and the rain forest.
This panorama is enriched with varied shaped hills that design its fantastic coastline, a scenery that goes along, side by side, with notable buildings hosting a modern lifestyle. Rio de Janeiro is going through a redevelopment of the urban infrastructure of the entire harbor, which includes two new museums. At the same time the City Hall is implementing a new intermodal system linking in the express ways, trains, ferry and subway. Also, around the downtown area there are rich historical attractions that can reveal unexpected treasures from our colonial and imperial past. The natural beauty of Rio with is famous beaches, rain forests and breathtaking views has the advantage of also being a definitely professional choice to hold important international events, since it provides high quality facilities and a very efficient, varied and sophisticated hotel network. You will find exciting entertainment in a modern metropolis with a wide range of hotels, wonderful shops, museums and multi-ethnic restaurants. You will also meet the “Cariocas�, residents of Rio, which are happy, friendly and receptive people, willing to share their good spirit with all visitors.
Enjoy your visit to the Marvelous City!
BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
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D E S T I N AT I O N O F T H E Y E A R
de Janeiro Written By | Jose Gherardi The city of Rio de Janeiro, with its fabulous setting, is suited to all tastes. This offers every traveller an opportunity to become acquainted with the many charming aspects that this incredible city has to offer! Rio’s unique landscape sets it apart from other destinations of the world. Here, the city stretches itself on the seashore between the stunning ocean beaches and the lush rain forest.
This panorama is enriched with varied shaped hills that design its fantastic coastline, a scenery that goes along, side by side, with notable buildings hosting a modern lifestyle. Rio de Janeiro is growing by leaps and bounds. Currently undergoing a redevelopment of the urban infrastructure of the entire harbor, which includes two new museums. At the same time the City Hall is implementing a new intermodal system linking in the express ways, trains, ferry and subway. Also, around the downtown area there are rich historical attractions that can reveal unexpected treasures from our colonial and imperial past. The natural beauty of Rio with is famous beaches, rain forests and breathtaking views has the advantage of also being a modern professional choice to hold important international events, since it provides high quality facilities and a very efficient, varied and sophisticated hotel network. You will find exciting entertainment in a modern metropolis with a wide range of hotels, wonderful shops, museums and multi-ethnic restaurants. You will also meet the “Cariocas”, residents of Rio, who are happy, friendly and receptive people, willing to share their good spirit with all visitors.
Enjoy your visit to the Marvelous City! BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
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WELCOME to
the wonderful city Rio de Janeiro, elected by Forbes Magazine as the Happiest City in the World and appointed as the World Capital of Kindness by the Universities of Michigan and California, Rio is a unique city. Not only because of its natural beauty but by its social and economic strength. The second largest Brazilian city both in terms of population and Gross Domestic Product, it offers one of the best business and leisure infrastructures in the country. The city’s hotel network offers 28,000 rooms, of all categories, which will be increased over the next two years by a further 12,000 units. Its international airport, operating with more than 20 airlines, links the city to more than 80 countries; the city has more than 60 consulates or commercial representatives; it offers well equipped meeting facilities, including the largest convention center in Latin America – Riocentro – with more than 100,000m2 of constructed area in a site of more than 500,000m2.
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BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
Among other factors giving Rio particular distinction is its history. Rio de Janeiro was the country’s capital for almost 200 years (1763-1960), throughout the Colonial period, the Empire and the Republic. As a result, it contains a cultural and architectural wealth without equal in the country. And, although no longer the capital of the country, Rio de Janeiro is still the cultural capital of Brazil. Rio is trend setter, and produces fashion, art, culture and entertainment, also making history beyond its borders.
Regarding its industrial production and technology, Rio is the leader in two industries of extreme importance to the international scenario. The oil and gas industry, today developing the technology for drilling for oil in the pre-salt layer, will increase Brazil’s oil reserves to more than double the current amount, with the potential of multiplying its reserves by a factor of seven. In the audiovisual, media and telecommunication sectors, the city is home to one of the largest organizations of the type – Organizações Globo, with a turnover estimated for 2011 at almost R$12 billion, owner of one of the largest TV networks in the world, with products sold to various countries and seen by around 70 operators distributed in strategic countries such as the USA, Portugal and Angola, among others.
Cosmopolitan city, with “cariocas” from all over the world, what first attracts the visitor’s attention are two very special characteristics, making it stand out among other destinations: its natural beauty and the warmth and friendliness of its people. The atmosphere in the city, framed by picture postcard scenery, by the empathy and kindness of the Carioca and a unique rhythm, combining its excellent infrastructure and services expertise with the informality and pleasures of living, are the city’s great trump card. It is what wins over the visitors, who feel at home, even in such a different environment: the scenery with beaches (90 km), mountains and a beautiful bay, full of curves and attractions; the nearness of nature wherever they go, with the magnificence of the largest Urban Forest in the world, where one can even bathe in a waterfall; the statue of Christ the Redeemer (one of the 7 New Wonders of the World) and the Sugar Loaf, the history of the country told where the main decisions were taken, the harmony between races, social classes, common people and celebrities. The characteristics of its people are a popular subject for behavior analysts.
Visit the Rio Convention & Visitors Bureau website – www.rcvb.com.br. There you can find useful information to help you plan your trip. And then call one of the BTOA agents to find the best programs for an unforgettable experience in Rio de Janeiro. Our Wonderful City welcomes you with open arms.
Written By | Paulo Senise Executive Director Rio Convention & Visitors Bureau
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ACTIVE MEMBERS
American Adventure Tours
Abreu Tours
P: 954-921-3838 F: 954-921-3839 2206 Hollywood Blvd. Hollywood, FL | 33020 reservations@aattours.com
P: 212-760-3301 F: 212-760-3306 875 Avenue of the Americas | Suite 2309 New York, NY | 10001 info@abreu-tours.com
Established 1989
Established 1840
Trade Memberships | US Travel Association, IATAN, ARC, CLIA, ASTA, American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, Hollywood Chamber of Commerce
Trade Memberships | ASTA, IATAN, CLIA, ARC, EMBRATUR, SATA, ABAV
Brazil Destinations | All Destinations Brazil Services | First Class, Deluxe and Luxury Vacation Packages; Customized Travel (FIT); Groups; Special Interest Tours; Family Travel
Brazil Destinations | All Destinations (FIT and Groups) Brazil Services | Air, Hotels, Transfers, Tours, Sea and River Cruises Other Countries | Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Portugal, and Spain
Other Countries | Canada, Argentina, Mexico, Chile Why travel with American Adventure Tours | AAT (formerly known as FNT) has been dealing with Brazil since 1999 and counts Americans, Europeans, and many universities as extremely satisfied clients. Our specialty is group travel and also custom made packages for all the Brazilian destinations, South America and Mexico. Our clients have been the same since we first started doing business as FNT in 1989 and our main goal is customer satisfaction and personal assistance.
Suely Auerbach President
Why travel with Abreu | Abreu was founded in the city of Oporto, Portugal in the year 1840, which makes ABREU the oldest travel company in the world. Seven generations later, the company is still owned by the same family through their direct descendants. Abreu Tours is a specialist in Brazil, Argentina, Peru and Ecuador, as well as the European countries of Portugal and Spain. Abreu offers you all the travel services these countries have available, providing you with the very best in service, value and enjoyment for a carefree vacation.
Dora Ferreira Director | NY
Personal Recommendation If you really like amazing, freshly prepared, typical Brazilian dishes, you cannot miss the “Restaurante da Giselle” in Buzios. It’s located on the right side, a few blocks from the entrance of village and the food is just out of this world. Giselle is from Minas Gerais and she prepares the best seafood in town and also the very best “pasteis” or empanadas. Every Saturday Giselle offers the typical Brazilian feijoada.
Personal Recommendation As the first capital of Brazil, from 1549 to 1763, Salvador witnessed the blending of European, African and Amerindian cultures. The city has preserved many outstanding Renaissance buildings. A special feature of the old town is the brightly colored houses often decorated with fine stucco-work. Just north and south of Salvador are the intriguing and beautiful beach resorts of Costa do Sauipe and Praia do Forte.
WWW.AAT.TRAVEL
WWW.ABREU-TOURS.COM
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BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
ACTIVE MEMBERS
Air Projects Travel
Avanti Destinations
P: 888-293-6203 1110 Brickell Ave | Suite 508 Miami, FL | 33131 sales@airprojects.com
P: 503-295-1100 F: 503-821-9417 1629 SW Salmon St Portland, OR | 97206 info@aventidestinations.com
Established 1996
Established 1981
Trade Memberships | ARC, IATAN
Trade Memberships | IATAN, ARC, ALTA, USTOA
Brazil Destinations | Rio de Janeiro, Buzios, Salvador, Iguassu Falls, Sao Paulo, Costa do Sauipe, Ouro Preto, Angra Dos Reis
Brazil Destinations | Amazon, Bahia, Buzios, Iguassu, Manaus, Pantanal, Recife, Rio de Janeiro, and Sao Paulo.
Brazil Services | Air, Land, Hotels, Transfers, Tours, Cruises, River Cruises
Brazil Services | Air, Hotels Only, Vacation Packages, Tours, Cruises, Customized Travel (FIT), Groups, Special Interest Tours
Other Countries | Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Brazil, Portugal and Spain Why travel with Air Projects Travel | Air Projects Travel provides its customers with unique and unforgettable travel experiences. We specialize in booking trips to Central and South America with special airfare, package, and hotel prices. We have several offices including New York City, Pompano Beach, and Miami; however, we are able to accommodate passengers worldwide. Our specialists are here to give you the attention and service you need to book your trip, and great service begins with the first phone call.
Natalie Borghini Vice President
Other Countries | Costa Rica, Belize, Guatemala, Panama, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador & Galapagos, Bolivia and Europe. Why travel with Avanti Destinations | For 28 years, Avanti Destinations has been providing hard-to-find options for the independent traveler. Our properties are handpicked and include ‘boutique’ hotels, castles and manor houses with ambiance and charm. Throughout Latin America and Europe, you will find our unique properties, driving tours, wine and cooking classes offer a truly authentic experience.
Harry Dalgaard President
Personal Recommendation Buzios is a must see in Brazil when visiting Rio. The once quiet and small fishing village became a favorite weekend destination for the “Cariocas,” (Brazilians from Rio). There are over 20 beaches in Buzios, and there is plenty to see and do during the day. At night the charming cobblestone street lined with boutiques, bars, restaurants, and clubs comes alive with various forms of entertainment and people walking around.
Personal Recommendation Brazil does barbecue (called churrasco) like no other. The variety and the quantity is impressive! We’d also recommend getting familiar with Caipirinhas at Academia da Cachaça in two locations: Leblon and Barra (both in Rio). The food at Academia da Cachaca is good and you can’t go wrong with the variety and deliciousness of drinks they offer. There’s also some fantastic wines in Brazil, most of them coming from the Rio Grande do Sul region of the country.
WWW.AIRPROJECTS.TRAVEL
WWW.AVANTIDESTINATIONS.COM
BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
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ACTIVE MEMBERS
Borello Travel & Tours
Brazilian Vacation Center
P: 800-405-3072 F: 212-695-5096 7 Park Avenue | Suite 21 New York, NY | 10016 info@borellotravel.com
P: 800-848-2746 F: 212-719-4142 16 West 46th St. New York, NY | 10036 info@brazilianvacation.com
Year Established 1984
Year Established 1981
Trade Memberships | ATAN, ARC, ALTA
Trade Memberships | IATAN, ASTA, USACA, ARC, OSSN
Brazil Destinations | Amazon, Bahia, Buzios, Iguassu, Natal, Pantanal, Recife, Rio de Janeiro.
Brazil Destinations | All Destinations
Brazil Services | Flight Only, Hotels Only, Vacation Packages, Tours, Cruises, Customized Travel (FIT), Groups, Special Interest Tours.
Brazil Services | Air only, Hotels only, Hotel & Air Packages, Carnival & New Year Packages, Cruises, FIT Groups, Incentives, Conventions, Ecotour, Lodges, Special Interest Groups.
Other Countries | Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, Ecuador & Galapagos
Other Countries | All Countries in Central and South America, Caribbean
Why travel with Borello Travel & Tours | Borello Travel & Tours (BTT Corp) is a boutique tour operator specializing in exceptional travel experiences to Brazil and other Latin American destinations. Our staff creates customized trips that provide life-long memories. Endorsed by many Latin American tourism organizations, the agency has been highlighted in the New York Times, Conde Nast Traveler and National Geographic.
Why travel with Brazilian Vacation Center | With over 35 years of experience of service to/from Brazil, we are the largest tour operator in the USA selling airfare and packages to Brazil. We have the lowest rates because our volume translates into major savings for you! Our office and staff in the US and Brazil are always available to help you plan a trip from your city to Brazil or other South American destinations.
Sandra Borello President
Joao de Matos President
Personal Recommendation Visit the town of Ouro Preto in Minas Gerais for a laid back escape to a small preserved colonial town. Take a strolldown the cobble stone streets full of Baroque treasures. Stay at the Solar Do Rosario Hotel for an authentic experience, and savor the tasty food and wonderful views at Bene da Flauta.
Personal Recommendation Comida di Buteco (translated as Bar Food) is a month long bar food festival in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. Now in its 10th year in Brazil’s bar hopping capital, the festival involves 41 bars offering cheap traditional dishes and a celebration of bar culture.
WWW.BORELLOTRAVEL.COM
WWW.BRAZILIANVACATION.COM
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BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
ACTIVE MEMBERS
Brazil Nuts Tours
Brendan Vacations
P: 800-553-9959 F: 800-668-7601 1660 Trade Center Way Naples, FL | 34109 info@brazilnuts.com
P: 800-421-8446 F: 818-772-6492 21625 Prarie St. Chatsworth, CA | 91311 info@brendanvacations.com
Year Established 1984
Year Established 1969
Trade Memberships | IATAN, ARC, ALTA
Trade Memberships | USTOA, ARC, ASTA
Brazil Destinations | Amazon, Bahia, Buzios, Iguassu, Natal, Pantanal, Recife, Rio de Janeiro
Brazil Destinations | Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paolo, Manaus, Iguassu Falls, Salvador, Amazon Jungle, Amazon Cruise, Buzios, Florianopolis (Santa Catarina)
Brazil Services | Flight Only, Hotels Only, Vacation Packages, Tours, Cruises, Customized Travel (FIT), Groups, Special Interest Tours. Other Countries | Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador & Galapagos Why travel with Brazil Nuts Tours | Brazil Nuts Tours has been the undisputed leader in searching out and offering new and exciting destinations, tours and places to stay for discerning travelers to Brazil. For over 25 years we have pioneered all kinds of travel to Brazil, from ecotourism to African Heritage programs. Our commitment, passion and expertise have earned us the reputation for catering to travelers, not tourists. Our mission is simple: to show you the Brazil you really came to see, to take you beyond the picture postcard view of the usual destinations and to experience Brazil “like a native”. Adam Carter President
Brazil Services | Escorted vacation packages, Independent travel (FIT), Groups, Family Travel. Other Countries | Offering over 800 packages and 10,000 hotels in 57 countries, Brendan has one of the widest selections of both Independent and Escorted Vacations available. Why travel with Brendan | To Brendan, the best way to travel is not just to take a trip, but to experience all the sights and sounds of a country. We have been providing travelers with unique and memorable travel experiences for over 40 years. Our travelers are our greatest assets, and every Brendan employee takes personal interest in making each vacation they help plan the best for each client.
Nico Zenner President
Personal Recommendation One of the first tours we offered was to “off the beaten track” music venues in Rio and Salvador. The tour is a must if you really want to understand and feel a part of the Brazilian Spirit. In Rio, it’s all downtown in bohemian Lapa. Check out Rio Scenarium or Carioca da Gema for sambalaced beats. But to dance and swing with the locals, head for Estundantinha, a traditional “gaifeira” dancehall where big band rhythms go on all night.
Personal Recommendation If this is your first time travelling to Brazil, your must visit Rio and Buzios and don’t try to overextend yourself. A week long trip is fine! Be sure to plan a few days in Rio de Janeiro, where you will get a feel for the culture, local cuisine and the best sun on some of the world’s most famous beaches; Copacabana and Ipanema. If you want to escape the big city, make your way up the coast to Buzios.
WWW.BRAZILNUTS.COM
WWW.BRENDANVACATIONS.COM
BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
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ACTIVE MEMBERS
Brol.com
Chanteclair Travel
P: 888-527-2745 F: 305-379 9397 2665 South Bayshore Dr. #445 Miami, FL | 33133 info@brol.com
P: 212-695-3514 F: 212-695-8333 152 West 36th St. | Suite 805 New York, NY | 10018 info@chanteclairtravel.com
Year Established 1998
Year Established 1995
Trade Memberships | ASTA, IATAN
Trade Memberships | ASTA, BACC, IATAN
Brazil Destinations | All Destinations
Brazil Destinations | All destinations
Brazil Services | Vacation Packages, Tours, Customized Travel (FIT), Groups, Special Interest Tours, Ecotravel, Amazon and Pantanal Lodges, Brazil Air Pass, South America Air pass, Flight Only, Hotels Only.
Brazil Services | Flight Only, Hotels Only, Vacation Packages, Tours, Cruises, Customized Travel (FIT), Groups, Incentives, Meetings, Special Interest Tours.
Other Countries | Argentina, Chile, Peru
Other Countries | Central and South America
Why travel with brol.com | High tech and high touch, that is what brol.com brings to your Brazil vacation planning. Besides offering one of the best sites about Brazil Travel, we also offer exclusive online booking of Brazil Air Pass and South America Air Pass. Our agents provide expert advice to make your vacation a great ex
W h y t r a v e l w i t h C h a n t e c l a i r Tr a v e l | C h a n t e c l a i r i s a u n i q u e a n d d y n a m i c o p e r a t o r. All our services are selected aiming for quality and value for your money. We specialize in customized packages, with personalized attention. By doing that, we promise we will always work within your original budget.
Geraldo Marques President
Personal Recommendation Restaurant Bira de Guaratiba in Rio de Janeiro state is located about one hour outside of Rio, but is well worth the trip! Check them out at www.biradeguaratiba.com.br
WWW.BROL.COM
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BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
Regina Frasseto Director
Personal Recommendation If you are in Buzios, looking for a break from seafood and the huge lines at restaurants, try the delicious pizzeria GOL. It’s located inside Shopping Buzios, at Rua Manuel Turibio Farias, on the ground floor. Among their different pizza flavors, you should definitely try a slice of their California: a piece of heaven, prepared with pineapple and cinnamon.
WWW.CHANTECLAIRTRAVEL.COM
ACTIVE MEMBERS
Cox & Kings USA
Discover Brazil Tours
P: 800-999-1758 F: 813-258-3852 8060 Melrose Ave. | 3rd Floor Los Angeles, CA | 90046-7036 tours@coxandkingsusa.com
P: 800-524-3666 F: 305-571-6008 9010 SW 137th Avenue | Suite 118 Miami, FL | 33186 sales@discoverbraziltours.com
Year Established 1758
Year Established 1988
Trade Memberships | Virtuoso
Trade Memberships | ASTA, SATA, ARC, IATA
Brazil Destinations | All Destinations
Brazil Destinations | All Destinations
Brazil Services | Customized, private travel services
Brazil Services | Air, Hotel, Ground for FITS and Groups
Other Countries | All of Latin America, Africa, Middle East, India, and Asia Why travel with Cox & Kings USA | We are a boutique luxury travel company offering personalized and attentive service. Cox & Kings takes great pride in our experience and knowledge with all our consultants knowing first-hand the destinations they sell. Our itineraries are designed with creative flair and tailor-made to suit individual needs. Ultimate care for your entire experience is what we’re passionate about.
Thomas Stanley Chief Operating Officer
Other Countries | Argentina Why travel with Discover Brazil Tours | With 23 years of experience and a friendly, knowledgable sales staff, Discover Brazil Tours is the ideal choice to assist you with your plans to visit any destination in Brazil, from the well-known tourist attractions, to the off-the-beaten path destination.
Dan Matheson President
Personal Recommendation Enjoy a Capirinha watching the sunset at the outdoor bar of Palafita on the spectacular Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas just minutes away from the beaches of Rio. Make your way up the coast to Buzios.
Personal Recommendation For lovers of traditional Brazilian Choro music, visit the Comuna do Semente, a small, charming live music bar at the foot of Lapa’s arches in Rio de Janeiro. Young, talented local musicians play authentic Brazilian Samba and Choro music with their acoustical instruments nightly, in a warm, cozy bar located in an historical building on a corner in Lapa.
WWW.COXANDKINGSUSA.COM
WWW.DISCOVERBRAZILTOURS.COM
BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
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ACTIVE MEMBERS
Dumonde Travel
Fredson Travel Inc.
P: 800-399-6186 F: 305-379 9397 168 SE 1st St. #700 Miami, FL | 33131 info@traveldm.com
P: 800-626-8422 F: 305-577-8344 11077 Biscayne Blvd. | Suite 401 Miami, FL | 33161 info@fredson.com
Year Established 1997
Year Established 1991
Trade Memberships | IATAN, ARC
Trade Memberships | ASTA, IATAN, BBB
Brazil Destinations | Amazonas, Angra dos Reis, Buzios, Canoa Quebrada, Fernando de Noronha, Florianopolis, Fortaleza, Iguassu, Maceio, Manaus, Natal, Pantanal, Paraty, Porto de Galinhas, Porto Seguro, Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Sao Paulo
Brazil Destinations | All destinations
Brazil Services | Hotels, flights, packages
Other Countries | Argentina, Chile, Peru
Other Countries | Argentina, Chile, Panama, Peru
Why travel with Fredson Travel, Inc | When FREDSON plans your trip, be assured our native Brazilian staff works from the heart. We love sharing the Brazil experience with customers new and old; and 36 years experience allows us an outstanding reputation in making travelers happy. Contact us for expert advice.
Why travel with Dumonde Travel | Dumonde Travel is focused on South America. Our discount fares cover cities all across the South American continent, from almost any city in the United States or Canada
Andre Nunes President
Brazil Service | Airline Tickets, Vacation Packages, Tours, Customized Travel ( Fit), Incentives, Meetings, Special Interest Tours
Edson Alessi President
Personal Recommendation Visit Porto De Galinhas in the state of Pernambuco for some of the most beautiful, award winning beaches in Brazil. Make sure to take a jangada (small wooden boat) ride out to the reefs.
Personal Recommendation While visiting Brazil, experience the National Parks. Enjoy Fernando de Noronha, a paradise for diving and unspoiled beaches. Lencois Maranhenses includes about 383,000 acres of white dunes and turquoise fresh water lakes, and Chapada de Diamantina, the 1500 square mile National Park in Bahia, is a beautiful region full of table top mountains, gorges, waterfalls, huge caves and crystalline lakes.
WWW.DUMONDETRAVEL.COM
WWW.FREDSON.COM
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BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
ACTIVE MEMBERS
Globo Travel & Tours
Globus Family of Brands
P: 866-359-4562 F: 617-868-0936 1103 Cambridge St. Cambridge, MA | 02139 globo@globotravel.com
P: 877-245-6287 F: 303-795-0962 5310 South Federal Circle Littleton, CO | 80123 consumervacations@globusfamily.com
Year Established 1998
Year Established 1928
Trade Memberships | ASTA CLIA ARC
Trade Memberships | ASTA, USTOA, NACTA, ICTA, IATAN, BBB, T.O.P., AARP Privileges
Brazil Destinations | All Destinations Brazil Services | Flight Only, Hotels Only, Complete Vacation Packages, Honeymoons, Corporate Travel, Cruises, Customized Programs for Groups and FITs, Incentives, Special Interest, Eco and Educational Tours. Other Countries | Argentina, Mexico, Peru, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Equador, Chile, Israel, Uruguay Why travel with Globo Travel and Tours | Since 1998 Globo Travel has grown to become the top ranked travel company in customer service to assist the ethnic market located in the Boston area. Globo sells travel experiences for the international and special interest group of travelers. Beaches, Culture, Sports, Adventure, Eco and Educational programs are tailor made to fit groups and individual travelers’ needs, as well as out the shelf well designed packages. Our philosophy is to minimize your work by maximizing your time and profit. So let us work for you!
Carlos Zucher President
Brazil Destinations | Amazon, Bahia, Iguassu, Rio De Janeiro Brazil Services | Escorted Vacations and Independent Vacation Packages Other Countries | 60 countries on 6 continents Why travel with Globus Family of Brands | For more than 80 years, the Globus family of brands has been providing a variety of vacations that address the needs of today’s diverse traveler with unparalleled vacation experiences, full of discovery and insight. Whether it’s a fully escorted or an independent vacation, with Globus and Monograms you will get unmatched value, insider knowledge, and worldclass customer service with every journey.
Phillip Gordon President and CEO
Personal Recommendation For an amazing Eco experience, one should not miss a trip to the Wonders of the Brazilian Pantanal. As the largest continuous wetland on the planet, the Pantanal is South America’s primary wildlife and Biosphere Reserve. We invite you to learn about the varied eco systems, the fauna and the flora and a biodiversity which includes 698 different species of birds, 80 species of mammals, 260 fish species and 50 species of reptiles!
Personal Recommendation While tourists flock to Ipanema and Copacabana Beaches, head to São Conrado Beach for a little more space and beautiful mountain scenery. Or, take the streetcar to charming Santa Teresa, filled with colonial houses that have been converted to small inns, restaurants, and art studios - an artistic hotspot!
WWW.GLOBOTRAVEL.COM
WWW.GLOBUSJOURNEYS.COM
BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
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Lençóis Maranhenses, Maranhão
Brazil is Celebrate
Download the application Brazil 360, frame our brand and take a surprising trip around Brazil.
/visitbrasil
/visitbrasil
/visitbrasil
braziltour.com/360
calling you life here
ACTIVE MEMBERS
Hotur | Just Brazil Vacations
Latour
P : 877-468-8707 F: 212-371-8801
P: 800-825-0825 F: 212-370-4007 233 Park Avenue South New York, NY | 10003-1606 info@latour.com
888 Main St. 4th Floor New York, NY | 10044 bookings@mtchotur.com
Year Established 1954
Year Established 1981
Trade Memberships | ASTA, USTA, IATAN, ARC, CLIA, HSMAI
Trade Memberships | USTOA ($ 1 Million Dollar Travelers Assistance Program) , ASTA, SATA, IATAN, ARC
Brazil Destinations | All Destinations
Brazil Destinations | All destinations within Brazil Customized FIT’s & Groups
Brazil Services | Airlines tickets, Ground Arrangements, Incentive Groups planning, Groups & FITs Other Countries | USA, Canada, Italy, Portugal, Argentina, Uruguay, Peru, Bolivia,Colombia, Equador, Chile, Panama, Mexico Why travel with HOTUR | Just Brazil Vacations: Founded 1954 in Rio, HOTUR is a family run business now in its third generation. HOTUR opened its American office in 1972 offering inbound/outbound travel from/to Brazil. Today, the company is a boutique wholesale operator with tremendous knowledge of Brazil and other destinations. When you book with HOTUR, you’re getting reliability, experience, tradition and expert knowledge.
Jose Gherardi President
Brazil Services | Air, Hotels, First Class, Deluxe and Luxury Vacation Packages, Cruises, Customized FIT’s & Customized Groups as well as special Interest Tours & The Elite Travel Collection. Other Countries | Argentina, Belize, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands, Guatemala, Panama, Peru, Uruguay Why travel with Latour | THE QUALITY IS IN THE DETAILS! LATOUR IS THE NAME TO TRUST! We are committed to providing unparalleled product and destination knowledge with each and every reservation we handle. Whether your program is published in our comprehensive tour manual or custom-designed, you are always assured that we will deliver the experience of a lifetime.
Arthur Berman Vice President
Personal Recommendation For the perfect day in Sao Paulo, HOTUR – Just Brazil recommends doing a gastronomic and shopping tour. Enjoy the best restaurants and quick places to grab a snack while shopping in the city’s best boutiques and markets. Also, consider a trip to the coast of Sao Paulo or check out the best Brazilian Jazz. We can customize these and any other tours for you!
Personal Recommendation Cruise the Mighty Amazon in 5 Star Luxury! Aboard the Iberostar Grand Amazon. An extravagant voyage of fascinating adventures to the largest tropical rainforest on earth. Explore pristine forests, track dolphins and monkeys, examine massive lily pads and towering ceiba trees in a journey beyond all expectations.This luxury cruise down the Amazon River lets you explore greater depths of the unspoiled wilderness, spot unusual wildlife, and slip through jungle waterways.
WWW.JUSTBRAZIL.COM
WWW.LATOUR.COM
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BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
ACTIVE MEMBERS
Marnella Tours
Only Latin America Tours
P: 866-993-0033 F: 919-782-1665 5171 Glenwood Ave | Suite 111 Raleigh, NC | 27612 info@marnellatours.com
P: 866-978-2997 F: 818-772-6492 8311 Westminster Highway, 110 Richmond, BC | V6X 4H2 CANADA mail@industravels.ca
Year Established 1981
Year Established 2001
Trade Memberships | BBC, ARC, GTOA
Trade Memberships | BTOA, ACTA, ASTA, BBB,
Brazil Destinations | All Destinations
Brazil Destinations | All Destinations
Brazil Services | Air, Hotel, Sightseeing, Groups & FITS
Brazil Services | First Class, Deluxe and Luxury Vacation Packages, Customized Travel (FIT), Groups, Special Interest Tours, Alumni Tours, Family Travel
Other Countries | Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Uruguary, Colombia Why travel with Marnella Tours | With over 30 years experience in tourism to Brazil, we know the destination first hand so our selling point is based on personal experience. Specializing in custom itineraries throughout Brazil, and all of Latin America, our most important asset is the ability to listen to our clients wants and needs and build their ideal dream vacation! A satisfied client is worth more than any advertising dollar.
Martha Tavera VP Sales and Founder
Other Countries | Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador and Mexico. Why travel with Only Latin America Tours | Only Latin America Tours is a specialized division of Indus Travels providing comprehensive travel service for Latin America. We’re extensively travelled and able to provide current and accurate information. We tailor make all vacations based on what you tell us you’re looking for. Whether your interests are historical, sightseeing, spiritual or adventure, we can provide you with a personalized trip which you will never forget.
Praven Syal Director
Personal Recommendation The beautiful town of Ouro Preto was the most remarkable of the settings chosen for the humorous movie “Moon Over Parador” (1988), with actors Richard Dreyfuss and Sonia Braga playing the main characters in the story. Visitors must stay at the Luxor Regente in Ouro Preto, right across from the main Plaza, which has kept all its 18th century décor. This is for sure one of the jewels of Brasil!
Personal Recommendation Try the Amazonian cuisine Amazonian cuisine is a mystery, even to most Brazilians, so the appearance of a romantic hilltop spot like Espírito Santa in Santa Teresa, which opened recently, has exposed the locals to new flavours. They are found in dishes like piranha soup, steamed tambaqui (an Amazonian fish) and tacacá, a soupy stew made with mandioca root, shrimp and a dark green leaf known as jambu.
WWW.MARNELLATOURS.COM
WWW.ONLYLATINAMERICATOURS.COM
BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
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ACTIVE MEMBERS
PanAmerican Travel Services
SITA World Tours
P: 800-364-4359 F: 801-364-4330 320 East 900 South Salt Lake City, UT | 84032 info@panam-tours.com
P: 800-421-5643 F: 818-990-9762 16250 Ventura Blvd. | Suite 300 Encino, CA | 91436 sitatours@sitatours.com
Year Established 1996
Year Established 1933
Trade Memberships | SATA, ASTA, ARC, BTOA, SITE, MPI
Trade Memberships | USTOA, ASTA, TOP, IATAN, APTA, PATA
Brazil Destinations | All destinations
Brazil Destinations | Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu Falls, Santa Catarina, Amazon, Salvador, Buzios
Brazil Services | Customized FIT and group itineraries including air, hotel, transfers, tours, dinner reservations, charters, cruises, seasonal packages, and special interest tours. Other Countries | Antarctica, Argentina, Belize, Bolivia, Chile (including Easter Island), Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador (including Galapagos), El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela Why travel with Pan American Travel Services | PanAmerican Travel Services has been specializing in customized leisure itineraries to Brazil for the past 14-years. Our agents have lived in South America, speak the language, have local contacts, and are constantly traveling to Brazil in search of new properties and unforgettable experiences. Douglas Wren Vice President
Brazil Services | First Class, Deluve and Luxury Vacation Packages; Customized Travel (FIT); Groups; Special Interest Tours; Family Travel Other Countries | Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, Peru, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Egypt, China, India and many more. Why travel with SITA World Tours | With over seven decades of experience, SITA World Tours is one of North America’s most reputable Tour Operators for deluxe and luxury travel. Recognized for its experienced destination specialists, SITA offers tour packages to destinations worldwide and unique programs such as competitively priced Land and Air departures, luxury train journeys and Air Only. Roger Mahal President
Personal Recommendation Take the time to see some of the smaller hidden gems of Northern Brazil. The town of Trancoso is located in the Bahia with beautiful beaches, friendly locals and amazing cuisine.
Personal Recommendation No trip to Brazil is complete without a visit to the iconic Copacabana Palace Hotel located on Rio’s Copacabana beach, the most renowned hotel in Rio de Janeiro since 1923. Grab a drink and take a stroll through the lobby where one will get to view historic old black and white photos of the hotel dating back to the 20’s and 30’s!
WWW.PANAM-TOURS.COM
WWW.SITATOURS.COM
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BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
ACTIVE MEMBERS
SouthAmerica.travel
Tauck World Discovery
TF: 800-747-4540 P: 206-673-3680 110 Prefontaine Place S. | Suite 506 Seattle, WA | 98104 travelteam@southamerica.travel
TF: 800-788-7885 P: 203-899-6500 10 Norden Place Norwalk, CT | 06855 info@tauck.com
Year Established 1999
Year Established 1925
Trade Memberships |ASTA, Allied USTOA, Embratur, SATA, ABAV, BTOA
Trade Memberships | ETOA, ASTA, USTOA, NTA, PATA
Brazil Destinations | Iguassu Falls, Atlantic Rainforest, Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador da Bahia, Manaus, Ilha Grande, Paraty, Buzios, Pantanal, Chapada, Caxambu, Sao Joao del Rei, Tiradentes, Congonhas, Ouro Preto, Maceio, Recife, Olinda Brazil Services | Fully customizable Brazil Tours, Amazon Cruises and Amazon Lodges. Rio Carnival, Oktoberfest, Rio New Years and More. Other Countries | All of South America Why travel with SouthAmerica.tavel | SouthAmerica. travel is the leading 4* & 5* South America tour operator. We specialize in custom multi-country tours to destinations throughout South America. We have offices in Rio de Janeiro, Lima, and Buenos Aires, as well as in the USA and Germany. Licensed and bonded in the US, SouthAmerica. travel has been sharing its love of South America travel since 1999, and is proud of its A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau. Juergen Keller CEO
Brazil Destinations | Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu Falls Brazil Services | Premier inclusive guided tours; Groups Other Countries | Traveling to more than 70 countries worldwide on all seven continents. Why travel with Tauck | Founded in 1925, Tauck is one of the most honored companies in the global travel industry with a customer satisfaction rating and referral rate that are second to none. We offer award-winning land journeys, small ship cruises and family vacations throughout South America and the world, enhanced by personalized services, unique cultural experiences and exceptional inclusive value that make all the difference in enriching travel.
Daniel W. Mahar CEO
Personal Recommendation From the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, to the colonial gold rush towns of Paraty and Ouro Preto, to the Amazon Rainforest and the Pantanal, there’s something for everyone in Brazil. We recommend starting with a tour of Rio de Janeiro, heading to the Iguassu Falls, and then seeing Buenos Aires to experience the highlights of Brazil and Argentina. Or take a train ride through the Atlantic Rainforest and follow the colonial Route of Gold through historic Brazil.
Personal Recommendation One of the world’s never-to-beforgotten sights, thundering Iguaçu Falls is a wonder to behold. We take an amazing walk at the base of the falls to give our guests a panoramic view that can best be seen from the Brazilian side. We celebrate Rio’s passion for beauty with an insider look at Carnaval traditions, the samba and a festive farewell dinner near Sugarloaf Mountain from oceanfront accommodations on Copacabana Beach!
WWW.SOUTHAMERICA.TRAVEL
WWW.TAUCK.COM
BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
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ACTIVE MEMBERS
Travel 2 Brazil
Travel Impressions
P: 800-766-2735 F: 86-449-0491 1855 W. State Rd. 434 | Suite 273 Longwood, FL | 32570 info@travel2brazil.com
P: 800-284-0044 F: 631-980-7587 465 Smith St. Farmingdale, NY | 11735 info@travimp.com
Year Established 1994
Year Established 1974
Trade Memberships | vacation.com, ARC, IATAN
Trade Memberships | Embratur, SATA, ABAV
Brazil Destinations | All Brazilian destinations
Brazil Destinations | Amazonas, Angra, Bahia, Buzios, Florianopolis, Fortaleza, Iguazu Falls, Natal, Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Sao Paulo
Brazil Services | Hotels, Tours, Packages, FITs, Groups, Airline Tickets Other Countries | Argentina, Chile, Uruguai, Paraguai, Venezuela Why travel with Travel 2 Brazil | With over 25 years of experience and a staff of native Brazilians, we are always striving to find new and vibrant destinations for our clients. We cater to both groups and the individual traveler. Our mission is to serve our clients to fulfill their dream vacation to Brazil. We also work with several NGOs (American and Brazilian) in providing service trips to the most needed communities within Brazil, bringing physical and spiritual relief to them.
Felipe Santos President
Personal Recommendation The city of Natal. Cliffs, rivers discharging in the sea and mangroves full of natural life complement the spectacle that converts the capital of the State of Rio Grande do Norte into one of the most attractive tourism options in Brazil. In Natal, visitors can enjoy more than 300 sunny days a year, an average temperature of 26 C (78 F) and breathtaking beaches that invite you to leisure and sea-bathing.
WWW.TRAVEL2BRAZIL.COM
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BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
Brazil Services | Vacation Packages; Tours; Cruises Other Countries | 150 destinations world wide Why travel with Travel Impressions | Travel Impressions is one of the premier leisure travel wholesalers in the travel industry with destinations worldwide, and has taken pride in delivering the highest quality vacation packages for more than 35 years. With our award-winning customer service, customized travel documents and superior technology, travelers can be assured of a memorable vacation experience. As a wholly owned subsidiary of American Express, we bring you the stability and quality so important in today’s travel environment.
John Hanratty Senior Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer
Personal Recommendation We recommend eating at Marius (www.Marius.com.br) while in Rio de Janeiro. It’s the best all you can eat restaurant in all of Rio!
WWW.TRAVIMP.COM
ACTIVE MEMBERS
b r a z i l VIP Brazil | VIP Tour Group
Yampu Tours (Sales)
TF: 800-772-9188 P: 770-736-5909 Atlanta | Rio de Janeiro www.viphoneymoon.com | www.viptourgroup.com info@viptourgroup.com
TF: 888-926-7801 P: 212-206-3710 260 W 35th St. | Suite 405 New York, NY | 10001 info@yampu.com
Year Established 2001
Year Established 1998
Trade Memberships | Proud member of the Signature Luxury Network, Carries a $1,000,000 liability insurance for all travelers.
Trade Memberships | IGTOA, IATA, ASTA, BTOA, SATA, LATA
Brazil Destinations | All Destinations Brazil Services | Luxury Tour Operator offering Customized FIT & Honeymoon itineraries including air, hotel, transfers, tours, show and dinner reservations, private villas, yacht charters, private jet & helicopter charters, culinary tours, afro cultural tours Other Countries | Argentina, Chile & Peru. Why travel with VIP Tour Brazil | VIP Tour Group is a luxury tour operator specializing in presenting Brazil’s most extraordinary journeys. We storyboard and customize each trip to your unique needs. Whether you’re looking for an exotic beach bungalow, private villa, enlightening culture or Flora and Fauna, VIP can produce you’re trip of a lifetime. We’re out there!
Michael Eiseman President
Brazil Destinations | All Destinations Brazil Services | Private, Group, Transfers, Tours, Hotel acommodations, Flights, + much more. Other Countries | Latin America, Africa, India, SouthEast Asia Why travel with Yampu | There are many travel companies out there eager to plan a trip for you. So why pick Yampu? The most important is that Yampu is run by real people with a scrapbook full of past travels. Our travel consultants have been to, and fallen in love with, the places where you will travel. We have an entire team of operations to make sure that everything goes according to plan. This is your vacation, and we leave no margin for error. It’s not only our job but our passion to provide you a chance to love it as much as we do.
José & Monica Irauzqui President & Vice President
Personal Recommendation Ask VIP to arrange a special culinary night with chef Yara Roberts the director of the Academy of Cooking & Other Pleasures in Paraty, Brazil. We plan a perfect night for foodies; Yara is the author of the book “The Brazilian Table” and one of Brazil’s best storytellers.
Personal Recommendation For an off the beaten path beach destination on Brazil’s western coast we highly recommend the small fishing village of Pipa and its uniquely beautiful beach, set against the backdrop of deep red cliffs. This beach is also one of the only locations to swim with the dolphins in the wild as they come closer to shore to feed on the smaller fish. The beach and its small village is a popular tourist destination for Brazilians but is still relatively undiscovered by mainstream tourism creating an exclusive slice of heaven.
WWW.VIPTOURBRAZIL.COM
WWW.YAMPU.COM
BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
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RIO JANEIRO
Written tten By By | Meredith Mereditth Pillon Pillon
O n e of th e m o st b ea u tifu l c ities in th e wo r ld , R i o de Jan e ir o sh o u ld b e at the to p o f ma ny trave le r s “must se e” lists this yea r. Sp ec tac ula rly -s ited b etwee n tow er in g m ou n tain s c over ed in lu sh veg eta tio n , sp ar k ling tu r qu o ise wate r an d m ile s o f wh ite p owde r y s a nd be ach es, R io is a fea st fo r the eye s an d th e sen s e s. This so ph istic ate d , ye t la id b ack , c ity is kn own fo r it s siz zling n ig h tlife , wo r ld - cla ss d in in g a n d its in fect ious pa rty a tm o sp h er e . Visito r s will fin d a fa sc in a ting m ix of c ultu re s, c en tu r ie s- old a rch itec tu r e, b e au tifu l tr opic al foliag e, fa b ulo u s b ea che s an d wa r m, fr ien d ly pe o ple. With pe r en n ial su n ny wea the r co o led by ba lmy br ee ze s, R io is p o pu lar a ny tim e o f th e yea r. A nd t he so u n d s of sa mb a a n d p ag o de fill th e a ir eve r y d ay – no t o n ly d u rin g th e festive C ar n ival in Fe b ru a ry. This C id ad e Ma rav ilh o sa is esp ec ially d ra m atic when v iewed fro m th e 1 ,3 0 0- fo o t Su g ar Lo a f Mo u n ta in (Pã o de A ç úc ar ) o r fr o m C o rc ovad o Mo u n ta in wh ich r is e s 2,3 3 0 fee t ab ove the city b o astin g a 9 8- fo o t sta tue of Ch r ist a nd a n oth er p a no ra mic vie w o f R io . C o rcovad o l ies with in th e lar g est p a rk in R io, Tijuc a Na tio n al Par k wh e re in its 8 ,0 00 ac re s v isito r s ca n see ar m ad il los ,
i guan as and mar mo sets. The 3 4 0- ac r e B o tan ica l Ga rde n s offer s m o r e ma n icu r ed n at ural beau t y wi t h 5, 00 0 sp ecies o f flo ra in c lu d ing Imp e ri al Pa lm s p lan ted in th e 1 8 0 0 s. Vi s it ors can o p t fo r a q ui et aft ern oo n wa lkin g o r cy cli ng a r ou n d p ictu r esq u e L ag oa R o dr ig o de Fri et as . Of co urs e, Ri o i s r enown ed fo r it s b eau tifu l b ea ch e s th a t r in g the c ity – 5 5 miles of the m – w it h n ames l ike Ip an ema, Co pacab a n a, Sa õ C on ra do , L eb lo n a n d B a r ra . Visito r s ca n j og, su rf , p lay vo ll eybal l o r si mp ly lie b a ck a n d watch th e be au tifu l C ar io ca s – th e p eo pl e of R io – a t pl ay. For cul t ure lovers, th e city h as a w ea lth o f in te r e stin g ar t an d a rch itec tur e . Fa m ed na tive so n Os car Nieme yer d esi gned th e Mu seu m o f C on tem p o ra r y A r t. Sa n ta Ter esa , a cha r m i ng nei ghb or ho o d hi gh ab ove t he cit y, h as so m e 5 0 a r tis ts showin g th e ir wo rk s o u t o f t he i r 19 t h cent u ry h o mes. And a Ho ll ywoo d star fr o m th e 1 94 0 s r e me m be r ed fo r h er s ig n a tur e 30
BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
BRAZIL’S Marvelous city IS AT THE TOP OF TRAVELERS WISH LISTS IN
Meredith Pillon Marketing Communications | 131 East 93rd St. Suite 6A | New York, NY 10128 212-289-1627 | 917-660-1627 | meredith@meredithpillon.com | www.meredithpillon.com
h at covered i n tr op ical fr u it is me mo r ializ ed at the C a rm e n Mira nd a Mu se u m lo ca te d i n B ot of o go. The ci t y h as a w ell- d eserved rep uta tio n fo r ex ce llen t r estau ran ts s er vin g au th en t ic r e gi o nal B razili an fo o d, trad it io nal bar b ec u ed m ea ts, fr esh se afo o d a nd eve r y inte rn a ti ona l cu i si ne i magi nab le. The news 2 016 has s hou l dn’t members i nt eres t s.
th at Brazi l wi ll b e h o sti ng th e Wo rld C up in 2 0 1 4 an d th e S u mm er Olym pic s in p u t th e d esti n atio n fr o nt a n d c en te r in the U.S . m ed ia, b u t A m er ica n travel er s wai t t wo year s t o visi t. The B ra zil To u r O p era to r s A ss oc iation h as m or e th a n 30 wh o ar e exp er ts at d evelop in g p e rso n a liz ed itin erar ies fo r a ll a ge s a nd spe c ia l
A n d t he ch arm in g Cari ocas wi ll give a war m welc o me to all th eir A m er ica n v isito r s . BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
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ALLIED MEMBERS
Adventure World
American Airlines
www.adwbrazil.com.br
www.aa.com p: 1-800-433-7300
Direct Service from the US to Rio De Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Belo Horizonte, Salvador da Bahia, and Recife
Direct Service from the US to Rio De Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Belo Horizonte, Salvador da Bahia, and Recife
Blumar
Copacabana Palace
www.araraslodge.com.br Pantanal | Mato Grosso
Canoros Tours
Casa Grande Hotel Resort & Spa
www.canoros.com.br
www.casagrandehotel.com.br
Specializing in all areas of Brazil
Enseada Beach in Guarja
www.blumar.com.br Specializing in all areas of Brazil.
Araras Pantanal Eco Lodge
Costa do Sauipe Hotels & Resorts
www.copacabanapalace.com
www.costadosauipe.com.br
Costao Do Santinho Resort and Spa
Bahia
wwvw.costao.com
Rio De Janeiro
Florianopolis | Santa Catarina
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BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
ALLIED MEMBERS
Delta Airlines
as the Amazon Del Bianco Tour Operator www.delbianco.com.br Specializing in all areas of Brazil.
www.delta.com p: 1-800-888-1881
Havas Creative Tours
Direct Service from the the US to Rio De Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Manaus, Fortaleza, and Recife
www.havasbrazil.com.br Specializing in all areas of Brazil
azon Lodge H Stern Jewellers Hotel das Cataratas www.hoteldascataratas.com Foz do Iguassu (Parana)
www.hstern.net Headquartered in Rio De Janeiro and stores throughout Brazil and the world
Iberostar Hotels & Resorts www.iberostar.com Hotels in Salvador de Bahia and Manaus
Manaus-Amazon-Brazil
Martur Juma Lodge www.jumalodge.com.br The Amazon
LAN Airlines www.lanairlines.com p: 1-866-IFLYLAN
www.martur.com.br DMC North East Brazil
Discover our new destinations in Lonely Planet Guide
BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
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ALLIED MEMBERS
Ocean Palace Beach Resorts & Bungalows
Porto Bay Hotels and Resorts www.portobay.com
www.oceanpalace.com.br
Rentamar Tours www.rentamar.com.br
Ponta Negra Beach | Natal
3 Hotels: Sao Paulo, Rio De Janeiro, and Buzios
South American Tours
TAM Vacations
www.southamericamtours.com
www.tam.com.br
www.tam.com.br p: 1-888-2FLYTAM
DMC Brazil
Offical Agent for the Rio Marathon
Direct Service from the US to Sao Paulo, Manaus, and Recife
Tiwa Amazonas Ecoresort
US Airways
www.tiwaamazone.nl/uk/
www.usairways.com p: 1-800-428-4322
DMC Brazil
TAM Brazilian Airlines
Windsor Hotels
Manaus (Amazonas) Direct Service from the US to Rio De Janeiro
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BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
www.windsorhoteis.com.br Barra da Tijuca | Copacabana Flamengo | Cinelandia Centra da Cidade
A S S O C I AT E M E M B E R S
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BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
A S S O C I AT E M E M B E R S
Brazil
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Travel Visa Pro is a leading Brazil visa and U.S. passport expediting agency. Travel Visa Pro guarantees to submit your Brazil Visa paperwork to the embassy the same day it is received and ships out your passport by return mail the same afternoon after which the visa has been granted. Even though our processing center is located in San Francisco, we assist travelers from all 50 states. We have our own couriers/employees in several major cities, including DC, New York, Houston, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami.
Please feel free to contact us for advice. Mention coupon code BTOA to claim your $10 discount!
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S T R AT E G I C PA R T N E R S
Members in 23 Brazilian States and 23 Regional Commissions formalized ABETA – Brazilian Association of Ecotourism and Adventure Tourism who together reinforces Brazil’s potential for adventure activities. We believe that Brazil will become a world-class destination for ecotourism and adventure tourism, supported by a network of companies with service excellence and commitment to social and environmental concerns, capable of providing a safe and enjoyable experience for customers.
The Brazilian Resorts Association (Resorts Brazil) has been promoting the leading majority of resorts in Brazil since 2002. Nowadays, Brazil Resorts has 45 resorts associates, representing over 12,000 rooms in 13 states. In this context, two thirds are located on the beach and one third is mountain resort. Combined the Brazil Resorts Association member hotels revenues exceed 1 Billion Reais
WWW.ABETA.COM.BR
WWW.RESORTSBRASIL.COM.BR
The Rio Convention & Visitors Bureau is a private non-profit foundation operating as a consulting and marketing office, which assists international meeting planners, associations and corporations interested in holding events in Rio. Its objective is to promote Rio de Janeiro as an ideal destination for all events, tourism and incentive groups.
WWW.RCVB.COM.BR
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the city: Loved the gardens, the museums, the weekend street food, the sensational hotels, the high-spirited Paulistanos. But of course this New Yorker would find Brazil’s “Big Apple” quite delicious.
Right at the get-go, I have to say it. There is one very big problem with Brazil: it’s very BIG. On the other hand, it’s wonderfully BIG, giving us travelers dozens of good reasons to visit once, twice, and then again and again. Over many years, I have been really lucky to have seen a lot of this continent-size country, thanks to the generosity of the airlines, of all kinds of neat hotels and lodges, of Embratur and regional tourism offices, and of many friends in the Brazil Tour Operators Association who sometimes “take me along,” at all times are there to answer questions, share the news, be sure I spell cidade marvilhosa (a.k.a. Rio) correctly. And last year was a good year for keeping up with Brazil. My first trip was to Brasilia (finally!), or was supposed to be, but who knew my visa was out of date? I should have checked, and done so well before I was denied boarding. Obviously some of us need a good tour operator or travel agent. Over the years I have been in Sao Paulo perhaps a dozen times, but only to change planes for somewhere else. Hey, nowadays, isn’t it wonderful that if you’re going to Salvador or Recife, you can fly direct from the U.S. to the Northeast of Brazil without having to go all the way south to Sao Paulo (or Rio) to catch a flight back to the north? Well, that being said, last year I actually left the Sao Paulo airport to go see
I finally got back to the Pantanal, which years ago I found to be the best place in South America to actually see wildlife, and it still is. Then I was in southern Pantanal, but last year was northern Pantanal, where capybaras and caimans bathed in the wetlands; hyacinth macaws and toucans bickered over fruit, while flocks of roseate spoonbills cruised overhead; and on the road to Araras Eco Lodge, even a puma came out for an afternoon stroll. Another new destination for 2011: Santa Catarina Island, both a welcoming town (a.k.a. Florianapolis) and beaches as gorgeous as advertised, while an hour south, you’ll find some of the best whale watching anywhere. Of course, any year is a good year which includes time spent in Rio de Janeiro. The Rio Visitors Bureau arranged for our small group to go touring with one of the best guides I have ever had in South America. New trip treats included a walk in the excellent Botanical Garden, an Amazon-fusion lunch with a view at Espiritu Santa restaurant in the artsy Santa Teresa neighborhood, caipirhina cocktails made with passion fruit. And for 2012? Hopefully a Northeast year, with a return to Salvador da Bahia, and a first-time stay in Sao Luis, which everyone says is Brazil’s top colonial treasure town. And just up the coast, I’d like to revisit Belem, the Amazon River port where I once sat at a street-side ice cream bar, facing a wall whose graffiti included a heart encircling the words: Te Amo Carla. Now how can one not love Brazil right back.
Written By | Carla Hunt 40
BRAZIL TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION
Now travelers to Brazil can count on the buying power, expertise and creativity of our Tour Operators to deliver the very best values in travel to Brazil. From Rio to the Amazon; from Florianopolis to Minas; from the Northeast Coast to the Pantanal, our members know Brazil and provide the exceptional products and destination expertise you need in planning the ideal Brazil itinerary. Visit our website to see our ever-growing selection of unique and attractive packages!
There has never been a better time to visit this wonderful country!