I’m at the point in my trip where I’m taking care of the practical things that I feel need to be done before I leave. I more or less go through the same process for every trip, though this is my first long trip without Jess in awhile. When we travel together, we generally split up the roles, but since I’m traveling solo it’s all on me. Here’s what’s on my list of things to do:
1) Print out relevant itinerary documents
In the age of smartphones and the like, this is starting to become obsolete, but I still like to have copies of my itinerary with confirmation codes, flight numbers and times, and hotel confirmations (if applicable, though we’re not staying at a hotel). I generally put this in a folder so I can keep it all together, and I throw things out as I go along (Jess taught me that).
2) Photocopy passport
I always make photocopies of my passport before I go abroad. I’ve never actually used it but I think it’s good to have. It certainly beats carrying your passport around wherever you go, which is just inviting trouble.
3) Set up communication apps
Since I’m traveling without Jess and Baby M, it’s pretty important for me to find a way to keep in touch. I’ve downloaded Skype, Whatsapp, and Viber onto my phone – between the three of those I should be able to keep in touch. I recently switched to T-mobile because they offer free international data and texting (at 2G speeds though). I’m not totally counting on that but hopefully it’ll be enough to stay in touch with the girls.
4) Pack power related accessories
Most electronics can run on both 110/220V these days, but it’s important to make sure you have the right plug adapter. Supposedly, Brazil has both flat plugs (like the USA) and circular ones (like Europe), so I’m bringing my European adapter just in case. I’m not too concerned.
5) E-mail itinerary to family
Practical and self explanatory
Anything I missed?
This trip is so close I can already taste the cheese bread…
Other Posts in this Series
Getting Pumped, Getting Prepared
Finally Here! First Impressions
Test comment
Do you know (how) to use Real Auto Onibus to get from Galeao to Ipanema much more cheaply?
No I don’t, but after the redeye I think we’re all just going to want to take cabs.
Fair enough.
Something else that came to mind: you’re going to see a lot of per-kilo eateries, in which they sell buffet-style food by weight. (These are fewer in chic Ipanema.) This is a healthy way to eat, and the way most Brazilian office workers have lunch out. Eating there after a certain hour (usually 1:30 PM or 2:00 PM) is usually cheaper than it is during the normal lunch rush. The per-100g price drops when the rush slows.
Oh nice thanks for the tip! Any places you recommend?
Food is cheaper outside Leme/Copa/Leblon/Ipanema (and you have no reason to visit Barra), but it’s all the same.
We liked Oklahoma in Flamengo as above-average, but it’s not worth taking a ride. If you’re at Catete Palace for tourism, it’s within walking distance. http://www.yelp.com/biz/oklahoma-restaurante-rio-de-janeiro
Also, look up how you can hike up Morro da Urca (but not all the way to Sugarloaf, unless you have equipment and a guide; then it’s possible). You still have to pay full ticket price, but it’s fun.
Disclaimer: lived in Rio for many months, Brazil for ~18 months total.
Forgot – recommend you eat in the cafe at Parque Lage, if it’s open. Near Jardim Botanico, and in the neighborhood of the same name. Worth the walk around the Lagoa from Ipanema.