Planning on beating the crowds to Brazil before the 2016 Olympics? If you’ve put a shred of research into visiting the beautiful South American country, you probably now know two things: a) its far and b) visas are expensive.
With over $100 in visa fees, a trip to the consulate and a long flight to the southern hemisphere involved, many American travelers are often deterred from visiting the country of Brazil, opting for the less expensive Argentina or more accessible Central America instead.
But several changes this year could help alleviate some pressure. To begin with, ten new flights from the US to Brazil will start operating, spurring demand, capacity and hopefully lower prices.
Brazil is also taking the positive step in reducing some restrictions on tourist visas. Soon, applicants wont need to travel within 90 days of acquiring their visas, and after it’s purchased, the document is good for ten whole years. This means that one can go the first time to scout out rental vacations this winter, again to crash for the Olympics in 20106 and again in 2019 for Carnivale — all on the same visa.
Sure, the $150 visa fee is still a pain in the ass, but at least the investment stays sound for 10 years.
Need some inspiration? Check out Gadling’s 24 hour in Rio guides for a snapshot of beautiful coastal city. Hint: it’s amazing.%Gallery-76818%