Cape Town Guide Sections:

• Visa & Immigration
• Survival Basics
• Cost of Living
• Accommodation
• Communications
• Money
• What To Take
• Health
• Local Transport
• Shopping
• Sightseeing

Visa & Immigration

Tourist Visa Required?

For US citizen: No
For UK citizen: No

For more information, visit this site >>>

Length of stay allowed as a tourist? 90 days

How to get from the airport?

Taxis: Taxis in Cape Town are a hit and miss affair. If you are arriving at night, in the dark, it is advisable not to take a taxi unless you can see the condition the car is in and that it is a registered taxi.

Transfers: It is advisable to arrange a transfer prior to your arrival - your hotel or accomodation should be able to help you with this. One further safe and cost effective option is the Backpacker Bus - you can see their rates and book online.

Basics of Survival

Main currency accepted?

The South African Rand

Where can I get cash from?

There are some well-known ATM scams around Cape Town; the safest places to use ATMs are inside banks or shopping malls.

Primary language spoken?

English is very widely spoken and you will not need to speak Afrikaans or any local dialect; you may find you sometimes have difficulty understanding the locals at times due to strong accents.

When should I go?

Being in the southern hemisphere means that summer is between mid-October and mid-February and winter is between May to July.

One of the best times to go to Cape Town is Autumn when the weather is hot & sunny during th day and balmy in the evenings.

One thing to note in Cape Town, especially if you stay around the coastal areas or in the southern suburbs is the wind; it can be very strong.

What type of plugs do I need?

Three-pronged plugs for which you will need special adapters. You can purchase them here for most foreign plugs.

Availability of business equipment (laptop, phone, cables etc.)?

Electronic goods are available to purchase but are typically quite expensive. The best places to head are the Victoria Wharf Mall (at the V&A Waterfront where there’s an Apple shop), Century City or if you have a car, go to somewhere like the Java Cafe in Claremont which has cheap software and hardware.

What is the crime situation really like?

Whilst crime in South Africa is publicised as a major problem, if you take the usual precautions you should experience no problems during your stay. Particular points to note include:

• If you can avoid going out in the dark, then this is wise especially if you’re on your own and in an unfamiliar part of town.
• Robberies frequently take place at gunpoint so rather than be a hero, just give up your stuff and you’ll usually be able to walk away.

Where should I avoid?

• The townships unless on an organised tour.
• Streets which look and feel run-down; it’s usually quite obvious which streets should be avoided and which ones are safer.

Cost of Living

What can I expect to pay monthly for a furnished 1 bedroom apartment?

December to January is high season; apartment prices tend to rise sharply during this time. At other times, you should expect to pay between 5,000-8,000 rand (between £300-500/$600-1,000) per month for a fully furnished apartment depending upon location.

How much does a basket of groceries cost for 2 people for 2 days?
- Assume this would include 2 packets of meat, some vegetables, a bottle of water or other soft drink, some eggs, some cheese, some fruit, pasta/rice/potatoes.

The two main supermarkets are Pick & Pay and Checkers; there’s also Woolworths which is a Marks & Spencer equivalent and sells more organic food. Expect to pay around 200 rand (£12/$25) for a basket of groceries (non organic) and slightly more for organic food.

What would I pay for an expensive meal out?

Spending 250 rand (£15/$30) per person would be considered expensive in Cape Town; although there are some more upmarket restaurants in the centre which cater to this type of market.

What can I expect to pay for an average meal out?

You can eat a good quality meal for an average of 100 rand (£7/$13) per person at many places in and around Cape Town and for far less at some cheaper places in town and in the suburbs.

Where To Stay

Unless you’re a real city person (in which case look for places around the City Bowl), you’ll find some very nice areas of Cape Town along the coast, just outside the centre.

Along the Atlantic Seaboard, these include:

• Camps Bay
• Sea Point
• Clifton
• Hout Bay

Whilst these are some of the nicest places to stay, they’re also more expensive and especially during high season and summer, you’re unlikely to get somewhere for the prices mentioned above. Most of them are very small towns along with one or two streets lined with cafes, bars & restaurants along the seafront and not much else.

Some of the southern suburbs include:

• Constantia
• Observatory
• Rondebosch
• Retreat
• Tokai

Again due to their proximity to Cape Town, these suburbs are likely to be more expensive, in particular Constantia which is home to some of the oldest wineries in South Africa and is a lovely, leafy but very upmarket area.

Some of the cheaper accommodation options can be found in the southern part of the peninsular. These include:

• Muizenberg
• Kalk Bay
• Fish Hoek
• Simonstown

Situated along a beautiful coastline but still only a 20 minute drive away from the city, these areas are highly recommended (we stayed in Muizenberg for 3 months and loved it!). Due to their location and distance slightly further away from the city centre, costs for apartments are lower than those areas closer to the city. The commuter train runs a regular schedule to each of these towns and is relatively safe.

Where to Find Furnished Accommodation

Suggestion 1: CapeStay.co.za

Comment: A comprehensive website with a good range of accommodation options.

Suggestion 2: Capetown-direct.com

Comment: Another good website with a good range of furnished, self catering apartments to choose from.

Communications

What’s the availability of high speed internet really like?

High speed internet is readily and widely available in Cape Town but works out to be quite expensive due to the way it is charged.

Usage is billed on a data download/upload basis - many of the rental apartments will have a capped limit (typically about 3GB for the month) so you will need to arrange to increase this or risk being cut off if you’re a heavy user.

Wireless roaming is available via the Skyrove service and similarly, you buy credits for as much data as you plan to use and top this up when needed. This is less likely to be available the further away from the city centre however.

Internet cafes are fairly popular - they’re infinitely cheaper outside of the city centre - with one of the most expensive ones situated at Victoria Wharf where you’ll pay 50 rand (£3/$6) for an hour (in Muizenberg, you’ll pay 50 rand for 5 hours).

Where’s the best place to get pre-paid SIM card?

Vodacom is one of the main carriers and has a booth in the arrivals lounge at the airport where you can purchase a pay-as-you-go SIM card.

Is free wireless available?

Wireless access is available via the Skyrove service; it’s not free and you buy bundles of data.

Quite a few cafes offer free wireless access, although many advertise wireless access which is accessed via the Skyrove service, so is not free.

Is is safe to carry your laptops around?

If you’re in the centre of Cape Town and you stick to the main areas, you should be safe carrying your laptop around in a bag. It wouldn’t be recommended to take your laptop and be seen out and about with it frequently.

It’s also advisable not to take a laptop on the commuter train or on public transport.

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What To Take

What kind of clothes will I need?

Cape Town is a very casual and laid back city; even in some of the smarter establishments you’ll see people in shorts and t-shirts especially for lunch. In the evening however, you may find that long trousers are more appropriate.

Any specific items that aren’t available?

Most items can be purchase in and around Cape Town.

Health

What’s the emergency services number to call?

In the event of an emergency, it’s advisable to call one of the major private clinics if you have travel/health insurance.

Police = 10111
Ambulance services = 10177

Can I drink tap water?

Yes.

Are there any specific health risks (diseases etc.) I need to know about?

Most waters around South Africa are shark-infested so you should heed the local warnings and only swim when advised. HIV/Aids is also a problem in South Africa so take the necessary precautions.

What are mosquitoes like for foreigners?

Mosquitoes are generally not a problem in Cape Town, unless it’s hot and the usual winds drop.

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Getting Around

What transport options are there?

Public transport isn’t as easy and safe as other global cities although if you stay in the southern suburbs, you can get the commuter train in relative safety.

Ensure you pay for a first class ticket (not expensive) as these are generally the safer carriages and you’ll find more tourists/affluent locals and security guards here.

For the safest way to get around, hiring a car is preferable and you can usually negotiate preferable rates with local companies that start from around 290 rand (£18/$30) per day including insurance.

What’s the driving like?

Driving is relatively civilised although South Africans are not the most competent drivers in the world - especially when it comes to reversing. Traffic lights are called robots and you drive on the left.

Shopping

Do you have to hand in your other bags (handbags, rucksack, shopping bags) at the entrance to the shop?

No.

Do you have to weigh & price fruit & vegetables yourself prior to check out?

No

Do you pack your own bags?

Yes, most of the time. Although they may offer you help to pack.

What else do I need to know when out shopping?

The larger shopping malls (the ones at the waterfront and Century City/Canal Walk) stay open until 9pm every day.

In the centre of Cape Town (business district), most shops and restaurants close on a Sunday.

Things To See & Do

Best ‘Hidden Gems’ & Must Do’s

These are not all hidden gems but they are must do’s.

# 1: Table Mountain
Comments: If you’re a keen hiker, a walk up to the top of Table Mountain should not be missed. If you’re less actively-inclined, take the cable car!

# 2: The Southern Suburbs
Comments: If you’re not staying in the area, a trip on te commuter train to Simonstown is a welcome relief from the city. You’ll be treated to gorgeous views of the coastline and tidal pools and a 1st class return ticket from Cape Town cost less than £2.50/$5. If you’d like to try your hand at surfing, head down to Muizenberg and check out some of the surf schools along the beachfront.

# 3: Constantia wineries
Comments: For some gorgeous countryside (within a 15 minute drive of the city centre) and world class wines, an afternoon spent wine-tasting at the wineries in Constantia is well worth doing.

# 4: Cape Point & The Cape of Good Hope
Comments: Spectacular scenery, whale watching and huge secluded beaches make a day trip to the Cape of Good Hope an absolute must. Watch out for the wild baboons!

# 5: Chapman’s Peak Drive
Comments: Another spectacular driving route (you have to pay a toll - approx. 25 Rand/£2/$4) taking you past some gorgeous coastal scenery.

# 6: Boulders Beach
Comments: If you’ve ever fancied swimming or sunbathing with penguins, here’s where you can do it! A secluded, sheltered small beach characterised by large boulders upon which the penguins sunbathe - it’s a nice place to relax for an afternoon.

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Where To Go:

…for good food:
For a great meal head to the wineries for lunch or to the V&A Waterfront where the majority of restaurants are good, if a little more expensive than usual. The restaurants on Long Street are also worth a visit - particularly Maharaja for great Indian curries!

…to chill:
Head to Camps Bay or one of the Atlantic Seaboard towns for a day on the beach.

…to see wildlife:
The Cape of Good Hope is excellent for whale-spotting in season (June to November) and for all sorts of wildlife such as baboons, birds and tortoises. You could always of course head to one of the private nature reserves nearer Cape Town for some larger wildlife viewing.

…to be refreshed & invigorated:
A dip in the sea or a surf lesson in Muizenberg is guaranteed to wake you up; situated at one end of False Bay, it’s a great surfing beach for beginners.

…to get a good bargain:
Head out on the N1 to the mall complex of Century City/Canal Walk. There’s a shuttle bus from most of the major hotels in the city centre, or hire a car for a day and drive yourself there; it takes about 15-20 minutes from the V&A Waterfront.

Any other secrets a LIP should know?

If you’re an organic food fan, it’s plentiful in South Africa particularly in the town of Muizenberg - which, despite its tiny size has 2 organic food shops and an organic box service.

Regarding internet access - if an apartment comes with internet access included, make sure you check about the data package they’re on and any limitations or restrictions which may apply (e.g. 3GB limit a month).

Guide Credits:

This guide was written by Lea Woodward.

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Rio de Janeiro Guide Sections:

• Visa & Immigration
• Survival Basics
• Cost of Living
• Accommodation
• Communications
• Money
• What To Take
• Health
• Local Transport
• Shopping
• Sightseeing

Visa & Immigration

Tourist Visa Required?
For US citizen: Yes
For UK citizen: No

Length of stay allowed as a tourist? 3 months

How to get from the airport?

Taxis: The taxis in Rio are yellow and there are plenty of them outside the terminal. The radio taxis charge a flat fee of around US$30/£15 one way to Copacabana and Ipanema. They are easily identified by the “radio” slogan on the car side and they are comfortable and air-conditioned. But there are plenty of cheaper yellow taxis which run by the meter. Most taxi drivers are reliable but a few might try to drive round in circles to keep the meter ticking. Keep an eye for sign posts to your destination.

Transfers: These are not necessary but most travel agents and/or hotels will arrange transfers from the airport directly to the hotel. The main hotels in Rio have their own mini buses.

Air conditioned bus: There is also an air-conditioned bus that leaves from outside the terminal and goes to all the hotels in Copacabana and Ipanema. This differs from the public buses. The public buses are by far the cheapest way the travel around Rio but are also considered the least safe for foreigners. If you’re not travelling with a local and it’s your first time in Rio it’s best to avoid the public buses.

What would you recommend as a ‘local’?

Take a normal yellow meter taxi. This should cost you around R$25 (£7/$14).

Basics of Survival

Primary language spoken?

Portuguese. Learning a few of the basic phrases will help you as will Spanish.

Other languages spoken:

Spanish is understood but you probably won’t get a response in Spanish. The staff at the receptions of the major hotels in Ipanema and Copacabana usually speak good English. People working for multinational companies will usually be able to speak a bit of English.

What’s the weather like at different times of the year?

The weather will turn hotter from mid October onwards. Between October and December you can expect temperatures to rise to +30º C. From December onwards, which is when most people take their summer holidays, the temperatures will rise to 40º C.

The weather is pretty stable during the summer months with the sunny days far outnumbering the rainy ones. From around 10am onwards the heat is usually humid and intense.

Spring and autumn are by far the most pleasant and prettiest times in Rio. The air is clear and sun shines brightly. Although the temperatures can be hot (somewhere between 20-30º C) there is a freshness in the air that is absent in the summer months.

What type of plugs do I need?

Two pronged plugs - 110 watts

If I run out of, lose or break any business equipment (laptop, phone, cables etc.), can I buy them easily here?

Electronic goods are easily available to buy although any imported brands are expensive due to the heavy tax. You won’t find any bargains. Casa & Video is the major outlet which will cover most of your electronic needs.

What is the crime situation really like?

Rio de Janeiro has a bad reputation for crime but it is not the Wild Wild West! Whilst your safety cannot be guaranteed, just as anywhere in the world, you should be fine if you take the following precautions:

• Split your money into different pockets so that you can access small denomination notes and coins for taxis and coffees and keep your large denomination notes out of sight.
• Most pickpocketing or mugging attempts are successful when the victim is distracted or surprised. With this in mind be aware of friendly locals coming up to you to ask you for directions or offering you drinks. One will keep your attention whilst the other grabs want they want. This scam happens on the beach as well, especially if you are using the “You go swim and I’ll watch our stuff” policy. Don’t fall asleep on the beach!
• Don’t ever lose sight of your credit card, especially in gas stations and restaurants. Credit card cloning is serious here.
• Don’t accept drinks or cigarettes from strangers in bars or clubs. The drugging of those new in town has been on the increase.

Where should I avoid?

• The slums, known as Favelas. These are hard to get into anyway
• The centre of town, known as Centro, at the weekends and at night. It’s absolutely deserted at these times.
• The areas near the aiports. These are generally very poor areas.

Cost of Living

How much does a basket of groceries cost for 2 people for 2 days?
- assume this would include 2 packets of meat, some vegetables, a bottle of water or other soft drink, some eggs, some cheese, some fruit, pasta/rice/potatoes.

If you shop at a place like Sendas, which equates to a supermarket like Tesco, then as basket of groceries for 2 people over a week would cost approximately R$60 (£17/$34).

What’s considered expensive for a meal out?

Spending R$60 (£17/$34) plus per person is considered very expensive. For this amount you would expect only the best quality food and service.

What’s considered cheap for a meal out?

R$40 is a cheap meal and not necessarily eaten in a poor restaurant.

What’s a fair taxi ride price?

Fair price for a ride from somwhere like Ipanema to a big shopping mall like Rio Sul in Botofogo would cost around R$15-16 (£4/$8).

What bargains should I look out for here?

You get a good deal on brazilian clothes: well cut jeans and very good quality shoes. Havaianas (flip flops) cost R$9-10 (£3/$6) in the supermarkets compared to £21 ($40) in London shops. Brazilian music and locally made jewelry are very good and you normally get a good deal. If you choose to go up to Teresopolis or Petropolis you will get a good deal on leather jackets.

What rip-offs should I avoid buying here?

Any goods that are imported due to the heavy tax.

Photo by Ben Tubby

Where to Find Furnished Accommodation

Where To Stay

The best neighbourhoods to live in Rio are the ones closer to the coast. Botafogo and Flamengo are the cheapest options and very family-friendly, and also popular with students and young couples.

From there, you are a short bus or cab drive away from the beaches of Leme, Copacabana and Ipanema; you can also cycle there through the area of Aterro do Flamengo, a park by Guanabara Bay with amazing views to the Sugar Loaf.

Other reasonable options are Laranjeiras, Cosme Velho and Humaitá. The two first ones are quiet and leafy areas with good access to the coast, and Humaitá is a stone’s throw from the Lagoon (Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas). Lagoa, the area around the Lagoon, is also very nice but very expensive. Jardim Botanico, close by, is a bit more accessible and offers views to the Lagoon and easy access to the beautiful Botanic Gardens and waterfalls.

If you want to be right by the beach, you have to go to Leme, Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon. The two latter areas are the most fashionable in Rio, so expect to pay for the priviledge. Leme and Copa have seen better days and now are decadent reminders of the golden 50s, but are affordable, by the beach and from there you can also easily cycle to trendier Ipanema.

There are a few suburbs further out such as Barra, Jacarepagua and Recreio but you would need to hire a car in order to get around. Unfortunately, the subway system (a safer option than the bus for tourists) doesn’t reach out to these areas yet. Barra and Recreio are not as developed as Ipanema or Copacabana but hi speed internet and other facilities are still widely available. Jacarepagua is one area where you can rent a house at quite reasonable prices within gated communities. However, it’s not on the coast and, again, you would need a car.

Ranking of Top LIP suburbs based on affordability:

1. Flamengo
2. Botafogo
3. Jacarepagua
4. Recreio
5. Laranjeiras
6. Barra
7. Copacabana
8. Humaita
9. Leme
10. Cosme Velho
11. Jardim Botanico
12. Ipanema
13. Lagoa
14. Leblon

Ranking of Top LIP suburbs based on proximity to beaches:

1. Copacabana
2. Ipanema
3. Leblon
4. Barra
5. Recreio
6. Leme
7. Lagoa

Things to watch out for when renting an apartment:

• Avoid any apartment with close views of a favela.
• Avoid any apartment, which is situated in close proximity of a favela.
• See the area in which you want to live at night. If it’s too deserted then avoid it.
• Check expat forums and see, if possible, if you can hook up with an expat who’s been there for a while. He or she should be able to give you the low-down.
• Flats come unfurnished unless they are “vacation rentals”. These are called Apartomentos para temporada, which are mostly found in Copacabana and Barra. These are more expensive than unfurnished flats.

Where to find furnished apartments:

Suggestion 1: OGLOBO newspaper and/or website

Comment: This is the major newspaper in Rio and has all the apartment listings. This is the best option for finding a good deal. Look for Temporada or Apartamentos para aluguel. You will need to know a little portuguese to understand the abbreviations in the ads and to speak to the owner. Estate Agents are not that commonly used in Rio and so any negotiations would usually with the owner.

Suggestion 2: www.rioapartments.se

Comment: This company has a number of apartments available catering for all budgets. Most of the apartments are in the Copacabana and Ipanema area. You will need to contact them in order to strike a deal for a long term stay. Prices range from US$40 per night to US$180 per night.

In general, any apartment rental company that has been set up to cater for foreigners will be more expensive than finding an apartment in the local newspaper. Most of these rental companies have apartments in the smartest parts of town and not many elsewhere. It will come down to your confidence in speaking the language as to whether you want to try finding something on your own. If you have a portuguese speaking friend in town who can help you all the better!

Communications

What’s the availability of high speed internet really like?

This is available throughout Rio although if you”e staying in an apartment which doesn’t already have it, installation does take quite a bit of time.

Where’s the best place to get pre-paid SIM card?

There are various shops you can get a pre-paid SIM cards from. The best are TIM, Oi, Claro and Vivo.

Is free wireless available?

Wireless access is available via the Boingo service at the following locations >>>

Click here to get your unique SkypeIn number

Photo by Flavia Man

Finances & Money

Main currency accepted?

The Brazilian Real.

Any other currencies accepted?

US Dollars in the major hotels on Ipanema and Copacobana beach.

Type of Credit Cards accepted?

Mastercard, Visa and American Express

What’s the preferred method of payment in local shops? Cash (local)

Cash, credit or debit card (Maestro and Cirrus). Many products can be paid for in installments once personal details are handed over.

Do shops accept larger bills (.e.g. R$20)

These are accepted in the large shopping malls such as Rio do Sul. Smaller newsagent type shops may struggle to give you the change for the largest denomination notes.

Where’s the best place to get cash from? (e.g. a bank, an ATM, exchange booth)

ATMs inside banks are the best and safest place to extract cash. Shopping malls will also have cash machines inside them and there are plenty of security guards in the building.

Are Traveller’s Cheques accepted & easy to change?

These are a safe alternative but not necessarily the best deal. If you need them then exchange them at an American Express or Citibank branch for the best rates.

What To Take

What kind of clothes will I need?

The weather is generally very good during spring and summer and the temperatures are hot. Which means that shorts, dresses, t-shirts and swimwear are most commonly worn if you’re not working. The office dress code is fairly strict and it’s usual for suits to be worn. If you have corporate meetings to go to then it’s best to play safe and wear smart clothes.

Beach wear typically consists of speedos (like those worn by James Bond) and boardies for men, bikinis (no thongs) for women, t-shirts and a pair of flipflops.

For the winter months you will need warm clothes and heavier shoes. The temperatures can drop to 10º C.

What one typically might wear for a meal out:

For a meal out in an expensive restaurant men should go for a smart shirt and trousers. Women will typically wear a summer dress and some smart shoes. You would get away with wearing a pair of jeans but they should be smart.

For other cheaper restaurants jeans and a t-shirt are perfectly acceptable. If you are coming straight off the beach then put a top on.

Health

What’s the emergency services number to call?

Police = 190
Ambulance = 192
Fire = 193

Can I drink tap water?

No - drink bottled water. Minerlba is the best brand and it is cheap.

What foods/food vendors should I avoid?

The king prawns and sandwiches sold on the beach should be avoided. Any street vendors selling BBQd meat should also be avoided.

Are there any specific health risks (diseases etc.) I need to know about?

Dengue Fever is a real risk in Rio so you should be aware of the mosquitos.

How strong is the sun really?

The sun is very strong from around 10am onwards. Even those who tan easily need to take proper precautions not to burn. The best policy is to build up your exposure gradually. Don’t forget that the sand reflects the sun too.

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Getting Around

What transport options are there?

Rio is like any big city in that you can get by on public transport and taxis are cheap. The subway system is good, clean and air-conditioned but not that extensive. If you live in the South Zone of Rio then you don’t need a car to get to Ipanema or Copacabana beach.

It is recommended that you hire a car if you want to explore further afield.

What’s the driving like?

Driving is stressful as there is a lot of traffic. Drivers can be aggressive and they drive fast. However, it is no more difficult to drive in Rio than somewhere like London or New York.

Any driving tips?

Be assertive and work out where you are going first. If you want to go to Ipanema or Copacobana beach at the weekends then head out at around 10am because parking is difficult. There are public parking assistants who want find you a parking space and take of your car whilst you are away. If there are plenty of spaces you won’t need their help to find a space but there is usually a small fee to look after your car. This is a maximum of R$2 and you pay this as you leave. As parking space is a premium they may ask you to leave your handbrake off so that they can move cars around to create more space.

There is a general rule of thumb that when driving past 9:30pm at night you don’t stop at red lights. Obviously you need to use your common sense and check for oncoming traffic. This is to avoid being targeted by robbers. Most cars are sold with blacked out windows and come with air conditioning. The idea is to keep your windows shut, particularly at night. This is as much for your safety as it is for the cool factor!

What’s the public transport like?

Generally the public transport in Rio is very good. The subway would be the cheapest and safest way to travel if using public transport. It’s air conditioned, fast and generally quite efficient. Orange seats on the subway are reserved for the elderly and pregnant women. The subway is closed on Sundays.

There are plenty of buses and it’s easy to hop on ask the ticket collector if you’re on the right one or not. If not they don’t mind you hopping off again without paying. However, the buses are not that safe for foreigners, unless you’re with some locals, and are often very crowded.

For peace of mind and convenience the yellow taxi is the best bet. These are not that expensive

Cost of public transport?

Public Transport is cheap. A single on the bus or the subway won’t cost more than a couple of R$’s if that.

Where do I buy tickets from?

You can buy the tickets as you board the bus. There are metal turnstiles on the public buses that won’t allow you through to the seats unless you’ve bought a ticket.
The subway stations is the best place to buy tickets for the subway. You can also buy multiple journey tickets at these stations.

What should I know about using public transport?

Find out what the routes are first. Use public buses as the last option and never get on to any empty ones. For buses from the Novo Rio bus station to Copacabana take bus number 127, 128 and 136. For buses to Ipanema and Leblon take buses numbers 128, 172 and 173

The subway opens at 6am and closes at 11pm daily, except sundays.

Photo by laszlo-photo

Shopping

Do you have to hand in your other bags (handbags, rucksack, shopping bags) at the entrance to the shop?

No.

Do you have to weigh & price fruit & vegetables yourself prior to check out?

No

Do you pack your own bags?

Yes, most of the time. Although they may offer you help to pack.

What else do I need to know when out shopping?

The shopping malls stay open until 10pm at night during weekdays and until 8pm at the weekends. Most shops do accept maestro/cirrus debit cards.

If you have a credit card you can register with the shop and you can pay for goods in installments. This only applies to those goods that are advertised as such.

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Things To See & Do

Over-rated / Rip-off ‘Experiences’

#1: Radio Taxis
Comments: The normal ones are perfectly ok and charge less.

# 2: Any goods offered to you on Copacabana beach
Comments: These are very likely to be low quality and highly priced for what they are.

# 3: Large groups in restaurants
Comments: Check the bill carefully when it arrives. If there are a lot of you in the party keep an eye out on what you’ve ordered. It has been known for extra items to find their way onto the bill.

# 4: Nightclubs in Copacabana
Comments: These are tourist traps. Very expensive and exceptionally cheesy.

# 5: Helicopter city tour
Comments: It’s really expensive and the views can be seen from the Sugar Loaf and Christ the Redeemer.

Best ‘Hidden Gems’ & Must Do’s

These are not hidden gems but they are must do’s.

# 1: Sugar Loaf Mountain
Comments: The cable car ride up may be a little shaky but the views of the city are well worth it. Best to go late afternoons to enjoy the sunset.

# 2: Christ the Redeemer Statue
Comments: This is the famous statue of Jesus Christ that can be seen from anywhere in Rio. You can take the cog train, which is an enjoyable if a very slow ride. You can also take a car and a taxi up. Taxi drivers will offer quite a good deal which includes waiting at the top and the return trip. If there are a few of you then the taxi ride is the better option. The views of the city and the surrounding mountains are spectacular.

# 3: The Botanical Gardens
Comments: This is a peaceful and relaxing place to go to during the week. Avoid it at the weekends as it gets quite busy. There are plenty of park benches to sit and read and enjoy a quiet moment. It’s open from 8am to 5pm everyday.

# 4: The Lagoon
Comments: This is a great place to head out to for a walk on Saturday and Sunday mornings. There are plenty of spots to stop for a fresh coconut water. It’s relaxing in the mornings and a great place for some drinks and a bite to eat in the evening.

# 5: Sunset at Arpoador
Comments: Arpoador is the big landmark between the Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. Basically it’s a huge rock but it’s a great place to enjoy the sun setting at the end of the day. It really is a stunning sight and it’s usual for the locals to applaud the sun as it goes down.

# 6: Bibi Juice Bar
Comments: Best juice bar in town with the freshest locally grown fruit available. If you live nearby then make it a part of your morning routine!

Where To Go:

…for a culture fix:
For your culture fix of the day the best places to visit are CCBB (Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil), Casa Franca-Brasil (House France-Brazil) and the two museums MNBA and MAM. These can all be found in the centre of town. All are well worth a visit.

…for good food:
For a great meal out the following restaurants are fantastic: Marius, Porcao and Barra Brassa. These restaurants have great variety and the service is very good. A cheaper option is the Chaika salad bar which offers more than just salads. This is a popular place for lunch. Beware as the air-conditioning is very cold!

…to chill:
The Lagoon is a lovely place to be to relax. It’s situated a few blocks behind Ipanema beach. There are plenty of bars and restaurants with a relaxing atmosphere.

…to see wildlife:
There is plenty of wildlife to see on the way up to the Sugar Loaf mountain and the Christ the Redeemer statue. Beware of the monkeys! Alternatively, you can take a boat trip out to the Cagamas Islands, which you can see from Ipanema beach. There you’ll be able to see dolphins swim and do plenty of snorkeling.

…to be refreshed & invigorated:
There is a little waterfall by the roadside on the way up to the Christ the Redeemer statue. The weather can be very hot and humid so standing underneath this for a minute or two will revive your senses. It can actually become quite addictive!

Any other secrets of a local?

Bureaucracy is a real problem in Rio and in Brazil as a whole. The quickest way to get things done is by knowing someone in the organisation or practice e.g. a friend of a friend. This will speed the process up.

Guide Credits:

This guide was written by Greg Hollings.

With contributions from:

Claudia Vasconcellos-Hollings

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Panama City Guide Sections:

• Visa & Immigration
• Survival Basics
• Cost of Living
• Accommodation
• Communications
• Money
• What To Take
• Health
• Local Transport
• Shopping
• Sightseeing

Visa & Immigration

Tourist Visa Required?

For US citizen: No
For UK citizen: No

Length of stay allowed as a tourist? 90 days

How to get from the airport?

Taxis: Pre-arrange a taxi or transfer prior to your arrival in Panama, especially if you arrive at night - it’s by far the safest and easiest way to travel from the airport.

Basics of Survival

Main currency accepted?

The Balboa which is pegged to the US$ (1:1); US dollars are widely accepted.

Where can I get cash from?

Cash withdrawals should be made from a well-lit ATM in a mall or inside a bank.

Primary language spoken?

Spanish - the Latin American kind is essential if you’re staying in your own accommodation and not in a major hotel chain. You may read everywhere (including guidebooks, online resources and forums) that English is widely spoken. It’s not!

This is the case amongst professionals (doctors, lawyers, accountants etc.) but is not true for much of the population such as taxi drivers, many smaller shops, restaurants, bars and cafes. The good news is that language lessons (even 1:1) are very good value.

When should I go?

Panama City has a mostly tropical climate with 2 seasons - wet and dry; the best times to go are between December and April.

What type of plugs do I need?

American-style, flat, 2-pin plugs. Take plenty of adapters with you - they’re hard to find in the city.

Availability of business equipment (laptop, phone, cables etc.)?

Electronic goods are available at the malls - but unless you speak good Spanish you may struggle to find the more unusual equipment/accessories.

What is the crime situation really like?

Panama is generally a safe city although the usual precautions for living in a big city should be taken.

Where should I avoid?

Whilst many guidebooks tell you to avoid Casco Viejo/Antiguo especially at night, it’s actually one of the most buzzing times to visit this great part of the city. There are however specific parts (like the entrance road) which you should not walk though at night or during the day.

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Cost of Living

What can I expect to pay monthly for a furnished 1 bedroom apartment?

Accommodation in Panama City is generally easy to find due to the abundance of apartments. Finding good quality furnished accommodation is however slightly harder although is likely to get easier with the increasing real estate development.

For some of the more upmarket apartments, expect to pay between £400-1,000/$800-1,800 per month. Cheaper accommodation can be found although you will need to check that it has internet access and all the facilities you need.

How much does a basket of groceries cost for 2 people for 2 days?
- Assume this would include 2 packets of meat, some vegetables, a bottle of water or other soft drink, some eggs, some cheese, some fruit, pasta/rice/potatoes.

El Rey is a large and popular supermarket here. Riba Smith is a more upmarket one where you can buy international brands; a typical basket here would cost approximately £10-12/$20-24.

Riba Smith carries some organic foods and there is an organic store, Organica, which has a small range of organic foods but few fresh veg/fruit/meat options in the Punta Pacifica area.

What would I pay for an expensive meal out?

Spending £15/$30 per person would be considered expensive in Panama City; although there are a few more upmarket restaurants in the centre which cater to this type of market - usually in the larger hotel chains.

What can I expect to pay for an average meal out?

You can eat a good quality meal for an average of £5/$10 per person (including a drink) at many places in the city although you can eat for far less than this if you head to local restaurants.

Where To Stay

The city is divided into districts. Some of the more popular areas include:

• El Cangrejo - centrally located, safe and upscale area of the city.
• Punta Pacifica & Punta Paitilla- home to many of the new high rise condo developments, it’s a smart, expensive and swankier part of town.
• Amador Causeway - a 15-20 minute taxi ride from downtown, the Amador Causeway is great if you prefer to stay outside the hustle and bustle of the city and want great views of the ocean.
• Casco Viejo - a New Orleans French Quarter-style area of the city; trendy, funky and very cool!

Where to Find Furnished Accommodation

Suggestion 1: www.PanamaCasa.com

Comment: More expensive but fully furnished apartments with good customer service - and they speak English.

Suggestion 2: Craigs List

Comment: As usual, a good range of apartments at all prices but it’s probably advisable to view an apartment before booking.

Communications

What’s the availability of high speed internet really like?

High speed internet is available in Panama although wireless internet is not as widely available as you might expect. Many apartments come with high speed internet and there are no data restrictions.

Where’s the best place to get pre-paid SIM card?

From a cellphone shop in a mall (either Movistar or Cable & Wireless) - you need to activate the card so if you don’t understand Spanish but can speak a little, ask them to do it in the shop for you.

Is free wireless available?

Not typically.

Is is safe to carry your laptops around?

During the day and if you travel by taxi, you would be relatively safe carrying your laptop around with you.

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What To Take

What kind of clothes will I need?

The weather is hot, so take suitable cool clothes which you feel comfortable in. The locals dress like many city-dwellers so whilst shorts, flip-flops and t-shirts aren’t frowned upon, you will mark yourself out as a visitor rather than a local if you dress like this in the city.

Any specific items that aren’t available?

Most items can be purchased in Panama City, although you would be wise to take travel adapters with you as these, for some reason, are hard to find outside of the airport. You may also want to take laptop accessories etc. with you - computer shops are not easy to find, especially if you don’t speak the language.

Health

Can I drink tap water?

The legacy of the US canal building efforts, means that Panama City has a relatively clean water system and tap water in the city is actually safe to drink. You may however, feel more comfortable drinking bottled water.

Are there any specific health risks (diseases etc.) I need to know about?

Check with your medical practitioner for the vaccinations you might need; if you’re only planning on staying in or around the city however, you’re unlikely to need yellow fever or any of the other recommendations needed for visits to the more rural and remote areas.

Watch out for mosquitoes - it is a tropical area and Dengue Fever and Malaria do exist.

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Getting Around

What transport options are there?

There are public buses - known as Diabolo Rojos (red devils) which you may want to avoid if you value your life.

Taxis are plentiful and cheap - although you may need to brush up on your Spanish - you need to confirm the price with your driver before you get in as taxis do not have meters.

Prices are determined by distance and the number of passengers - but even from one side of town to the other, you should be paying no more than £1/$2 for 2 people. Most drivers are friendly - and some will try and chat to you. There are a few who speak basic English - and some will give you their card - take it, it’s always useful to be able to call up a familiar taxi driver.

What’s the driving like?

Driving is Panama City is wild; unless you’re a very confident driver and don’t mind a bit of stress (traffic is not great here) then stick to the taxis.

Shopping

Do you have to hand in your other bags (handbags, rucksack, shopping bags) at the entrance to the shop?

Yes - in some of the supermarkets and stores in malls, you have to hand in your bags to the security person at the entrance.

Do you have to weigh & price fruit & vegetables yourself prior to check out?

No

Do you pack your own bags?

Yes, most of the time. Although they may offer you help to pack and carry the bags to your car/taxi for you (a tip of $1 is usually expected).

Things To See & Do

Best ‘Hidden Gems’ & Must Do’s

These are not all hidden gems but worth a look nonetheless!

# 1: Cerre Ancon
Comments: Take a trip up Ancon Hill for great views of Panama City and Casco Viejo.

# 2: Mi Pueblito
Comments: A bit of a contrived tourist attraction but still worth a visit; you can see a replica village of how the natives and indigenous people lived in Panama before all the modernisation.

# 3: Panama Canal
Comments: An obvious attraction; consider doing a half-transit trip along the canal and marvel at the feat of engineering of this huge construction.

# 4: Casco Viejo
Comments: Spend an afternoon wandering round the quiet streets, stop for a coffee in a sun-drenched square or wait till the sun goes down and enjoy a great meal and some jazz.

# 5: Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute
Comments: Located on the Amador Causeway, if you’re into nature and wildlife then you’ll enjoy an afternoon here when you can then head out to eat at one of the restaurants on the causeway to watch the ships queuing to pass through the canal.

# 6: Get out of the city!
Comments: Panama is a relatively small country and it is easy to travel to places outside of the city easily and cheaply. Try El Valle de Anton (a 2 hour drive) for a spring-like climate and countryside feel; or go into the rainforest to the Gamboa Resort. If you want to head to the Caribbean coast, head to the San Blas islands or a little further afield, Bocas del Toro is popular with backpackers - because of this, you might prefer to go here out of season.

Any other secrets a LIP should know?

If you can make friends with some locals (try taking language lessons and getting to know your teacher), they’ll show you a different side to Panama City which you otherwise wouldn’t see.

Guide Credits:

This guide was written by Lea Woodward.

With contributions from:

Jonathan Woodward.

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