Be careful of...
This section is to HELP those travelling to avoid the problems that previous travellors have had. It covers a wide range of topics and is an overview of some occurrences in the past from other travellors, it does not represent the opionions of KiteboardBrazil.com...so you can take it or leave it, but dont dis-believe it, these things due happen.
Luggage and Kite Gear
Be aware of the fact that your Kite Gear is worth more than the average Brasilian makes in a year. Dont...
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Rental cars and trucks
First thing to know is that the airport is always more expensive. Sometimes renting from downtown Fortaleza is better. Be sure to do this in advance AND have them bring the car to your hotel or to the airport. Second, CHECK THE CAR THOROUGHLY before you leave with it. On more than one occassion tires have have blown due to poor tire condition, make sure you have a spare in the car and its inflated. ALSO, check the oil and anti-freeze levels...if its low there could be a hidden problem waiting to sabatage your big trip. It is very popular to use tap water instead of anti-freeze (glycol) which will cause the car to over heat and possible engine damage that YOU will be responsible to pay. Third, get air conditioning, you will thank me for it later. Fourth, the Brazilian version of roof racks are shit, they are broken or missing the cross member to go across the roof, bring ropes, ratchet tie-downs or anything else you think you will need since they will have nothing to give you once here. Lastly...GET THE INSURANCE OR BE SURE TO PAY WITH YOUR CREDIT CARD THAT OFFERS RENTAL PROTECTION. Do not pay cash for your rental, you may be charged twice if your card is onfile "for the deposit". |
Taxi and shuttles
There is an approved taxi stand outside the airport. There are set prices for specific locations and distances as well as 2 tier pay rates, one for evening and one for holidays, be sure to check this. There are also many drivers operating illegally and they can overcharge quite easily if you dont know the prices. Its best to arrange for a shuttle ahead of time either with us or with your hotel directly...this way you know you will get to your destination safely. Book your airport shuttle with us click here. |
Investing and buying land
Brazil is both the land of opportunity and exploitation. In this business of buying and selling land, the only law is...buyer beware! We have seen many tourists that have found a beautiful spot to buy and invest only to find out later it was not properly owned by the previous person, or it had no title and there was legal disputes over it. If you want to buy something...take your time, get a translator, get a lawyer and please please please get something that has a proper title or proof of ownership papers that have been certified by the local "escritura" municipal document legalizing office, each town or city has one. Do not accept a developers word on his smile alone, do your homework and research first. This will be your only warning, good luck. |
Nightlife and Prostitution
There are more beautiful women in Brazil than any other 5 countries put together...guys, be careful. The sexiness and sex trade industry are as part of the Brasilian culture as caiparinhas and futebol. It has been known that men meet a woman on the beach, street, bus, bar only to find out later that they took home a prostitute (male or female) , and now they wont leave unless you pay...even worse if you find out she is under 18, as this means you are going to jail! There are very strict laws about sex with minors...check I.D. if necessary because I doubt you will enjoy a Brasilian prison and having your passport taken away. Not to mention you need to be careful about STD's, please wear use protection. |
Police
Brazil has its problems and the Police work hard to try and minimize and control them. They dont mess around and will use force if needed. However, if you are stopped doing something wrong or stupid...dont talk back, try to record your interaction, make something like a documentary so they know you are doing it...and then do what ever they say. If they want money it is illegal but yet still very common to ask foreigners. Example if they ask for 100R, give them half...you just got off lucky. Police typically are looking for..drugs, drug use, drunken behavior, aggressive or violent behavior, invalid licence documents or rental car documents, permits, stolen motorbikes or cars or more serious issues...they really dont bother tourists. Be polite and respectful and you will be just fine. If all else fails and you have no money, smile and offer them a stick of gum...I've heard this works in Cumbuco. |
Health Coverage and Accident Insurance
It doesnt matter where you are from...if you are travelling to Brazil...you need extended health and accident insurance. The social system here is FREE, however if something is serious you dont want to be arguing about having your arm or leg fixed because of lack of insurance. You are coming here to kiteboard...it is a potentially dangerous sport, like snowboarding or hockey or rugby...accidents happen, be prepared and be sure to buy your health coverage before you leave. It could be the best money you ever spent on this trip. If you cant afford coverage, you cant afford the trip. |
Passports and Documents
Be sure to make copies of all your important documents ie, passport, flights, health coverages etc...and keep a paper copy in a separate piece of luggage other than the one you are using as your carry on. Also, its a good idea to scan them and then email the documents to yourself so that you can access it from anywhere that has a computer, internet and printer. |
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