It’s my first time in Rio - any tips for staying safe?
Rio is a vibrant, welcoming city, and millions of tourists visit every year without any issues. Use the same precautions you would in any major city. A few tips: keep jewelry and large amounts of cash and your passport at your hotel, stay aware of your surroundings in unfamiliar areas, and avoid having your phone out while walking around. We recommend sticking to Zona Sul (Leblon, Ipanema, Copacabana, Jardim Botanico, Lagoa) and, if you want to explore beyond the usual spots, going with a local guide. Uber and taxis are a great, easy way to get around safely.
We'll have plenty of recommendations for you, and Rio's beauty far outweighs any of this!
questions & answers
What should I wear?
Cocktail attire for the Welcome Party and formal for the wedding
- long gowns for ladies; suits or linen suits for gentlemen -
When should I arrive in Rio?
The wedding is Saturday, September 11th, but we’re celebrating all weekend, starting with a Welcome Party on Thursday, September 9th. We’d love for you to join if you can! Just keep in mind that most flights from the U.S. are overnight, so you’ll want to leave Wednesday night to make it Thursday.
Can I bring my kids to the wedding events?
We love your little ones, but our wedding will be an adults-only celebration. We hope this gives you a chance to relax and enjoy the wedding!
Do I need a visa to travel to Brazil?
As of October 2026, yes - U.S. citizens need a visa (eVisa) to enter Brazil. This can change, so please check the website below for the latest requirements before you travel.
It’s my first time in Rio - any tips for staying safe?
Rio is a vibrant, welcoming city, and millions of tourists visit every year without any issues. Use the same precautions you would in any major city. A few tips: keep jewelry and large amounts of cash and your passport at your hotel, stay aware of your surroundings in unfamiliar areas, and avoid having your phone out while walking around. We recommend sticking to Zona Sul (Leblon, Ipanema, Copacabana, Jardim Botanico, Lagoa) and, if you want to explore beyond the usual spots, going with a local guide. Uber and taxis are a great, easy way to get around safely.
We'll have plenty of recommendations for you, and Rio's beauty far outweighs any of this!
Is tap water safe to drink?
We don't recommend it. Bottled water is widely available at hotels, restaurants, and shops.
What's the best way to get around Rio?
Uber Black and registered taxis are both safe and affordable.
Should I exchange money before I arrive?
Cash is not necessary. Most restaurants, shops, and street vendors accept credit card.
What's the weather like in September?
September is early spring in Rio, generally mild and pleasant. Expect average highs around 27°C (81°F) during the day and lows around 19°C (66°F) at night, so pack layers for cooler evenings.
Can I bring a gift to the wedding?
Your presence is the best gift! If you'd like to send something, more information to come.
Helpful Brazilian words and terms to know
The local currency is the Brazilian Real (R$) — pronounced "hey-AU" (plural: reais, pronounced "hey-ICE")
Oi (“Oy”) = Hi
Bom dia (“Bohm Jee-Ah”) = Good morning
Boa tarde (“BOH-ah Tar-Jee”) = Good afternoon
Boa noite (“BOH-ah Noy-chee”) = good evening
Tchau (“chow”) = bye
Obrigado/a (if you’re male/female) = thank you