Special Honeymoon Journey- Rio, Buzios & Angra

Dear Michael,

Well where do I begin! We've literally traveled all around the globe, stayed in all kinds of hotels, apartments and villas, and for the most part we've never used an agency for anything other than air tickets, preferring to hammer-out the excruciating details ourselves, and we've become experts at it, one could say.

But there was only one continent that we've never been to and that's South America, and we've always wanted to visit Brazil especially, and since we were starting blind, and after constant research and web searches, we stumbled across your web site. We were skeptical at first, not knowing what to expect, but the fact that we were going back-and-forth with you guys on the details of our trip kinda made us feel more comfortable.

And off we were. Arriving in Buenos Aires- in a country we've never been to- we didn't know what to expect, but as soon as the two gentlemen greeted us, we knew things will turn out fine; they were very friendly and hospitable, to say the least, and our hotel room was simply magnificent!. We had a great time indeed.

And then off to Brazil. Supposedly a "very dangerous" place, our apprehension was great, even while driving to Buzios. Every run-down Pousada we passed we thought was ours, but with a sigh of relief we kept on moving. Then we arrived, and WOW! What a wonderful little place! They greeted us so warmly, knowing who we were immediately, and escorting us to the best room in the Pousada! It was late and dark, but I cannot describe to you the sheer exhilaration we felt when we woke up to that stunning view! I cannot decide what was better in Buzios, was it the daytime or night time, but certainly both were well worth our 14 hour flight and 3 hour drive, we would definitely go there again.

Rio (Leblon specifically) was such a surprising experience. We had such a great time and everyone could not have been friendlier, the food, music, night life, the young crowd and hip areas, all were things never to be forgotten.

Angra dos Reis was arguably one of the most naturally beautiful places we have ever been to, and we've been to them all, believe me. It was simply stunning! The mountains, the isolated beaches, the people and staff, all were amazing, nothing like we expected.

I cannot begin to describe how happy we were, we still cannot stop talking about it with our friends and family, and we're telling them all to contact VIP Brazil if they plan on going, you guys were on top of everything every minute, literally. And your quotes were on target and well below our specified budget, but by far the greatest thing was that you were always calling the drivers/guides to make sure we were where we're supposed to be, and that is something extremely rare nowadays.

I forgot the names of all the driver/guides, but the lady in Argentina was absolutely super, and so was the driver (he actually went out of his way to point out Arabic sites and he translated Argentine dishes into Arabic!), and also Marcello, oh what a character he is! He gave us so many laughs (not all intentional!), what a funny guy, he was always punctual and extremely helpful, we had such a great time with him. You guys are honestly the best, I wish you would expand and serve globally, you are so good at it! (then again, big isn't necessarily good!).

We were so satisfied with experiencing your company that we assumed doing it again with others would be somewhat similar at least, but noo way: we went to Greece a couple of weeks ago using a freinds "travel agent", our car never received us, and we got scammed by a cab, driving for 2 hours, our connecting plane was on the wrong day, prompting us to take a 3 hour boat ride, and our hotel basically kicked us out 12 hours before our departure time, leaving us wandering the streets of Mykonos in the blistering sun for half a day! Just to show you.

All we can say is Thank You So Much for one of the best trips we've ever taken, we will surely be knocking back on your door in year or two, you can bet on that, your the best, all of you.

Sorry for the lengthy email but it’s from the heart.

Regards to Sarah and the rest of the staff, you've all been amazing.

Best Regards,
Faisal A.& Eba'a A.

Family Cultural Excursion - Rio, Paraty, Iguassu Falls & Sao Paulo

Dear Caroline,

I agree with Jerry’s comments and would add that a major highlight was attending a candomble ceremony in Salvador. It had been highly recommended by Jesse’s high school music teacher, and it was an outstanding window into Afro-Brazilian culture. We appreciate the efforts that you and Luis made to enable us to attend.

The tours and activities in all locations were worthwhile. Some, such as the boat trip and rain forest tour in Paraty, were aided by spectacular weather. Iguassu Falls were amazing, even with low water—we could really see the structure of the falls, which is probably not so visible with higher flow. What we did miss was time to wander and shop and listen to more music, particularly in Paraty, Salvador, and Rio

The most important thing, however, is that all three of us enjoyed the trip immensely. It was a memorable experience that we will recall fondly for many years. I don’t know if Jerry has shared our travel blog with you—it has some of the pictures and impressions that we recorded during the trip: Click Here

I also want you to know that we are very appreciative of your availability and exceptional service throughout the trip. The selection of destinations and activities truly helped us sample some of the many flavors of Brazil. Your assistance and willingness to develop alternatives during our trip helped us maximize the opportunities in our travel and to accommodate our changing needs. Thank you very much.

Regards,
Shirley F. & Jerry E.

Rio and Buzios journey with my daughters

Dear Jennifer,

We had a very memorable trip, and really appreciate all that you did to make it so. It was so hard to leave! We took the tour of the favelas, which Marcelo arranged with Marcelo Armstrong. It was really interesting and definitely a highlight of our time in Rio. The girls' favorite was the Rio Scenarium. Zaza Bistro also was great. At Adrian's recommendation, we tried Brigitta's in Buzios, which we really liked.

We think ATMs are the way to go. Despite being turned away by two in Rio, we think you get a better exchange even though there is a fee. The exchange rate offered by the ATMs is better than what we found at the airport, hotel and with credit card companies. In addition, the credit card company charges an additional 3% exchange fee.

Thank you for taking my email about the Brava seriously, rather than writing me off as a cranky, difficult client. Although the ambience of the hotel is very different and enjoyable, management needs to do some refurbishing and outfitting of the rooms and investment in Tilex, if our room and bathroom were any indication of their overall condition.

Meeting Adrian, getting a tour of the city, and renting the buggy really helped make our visit to Buzios special. I really didn't think we would need a guide for our time in the sun. Of course, I loved getting my nails done. The girls loved their surfing lesson, and went back for a second. Mike said that you were interested in seeing photos of Adrian working with the girls. You will find some attached. (Gabi is the shorter of the two.) Unfortunately, I am not the best photographer!

I do hope that we will be able to work with you again on a return trip to Brazil, if not elsewhere in South America. Marcelo said your company is expanding into other countries so let me know where. But I also really want our friends to retain you as well. You are great and wonderful to work with!

Best regards,
Gayle N.

Buzios and Rio excursion

Dear Carol,

Just wanted to drop you guys a line to let you know what an outstanding job you did in planning and preparing us for our Brazilian vacation. The general consensus was that it was the best vacation of all time. What an amazing country filled with amazing people. The 7 days in Buzios were unbelievable. The service at Casa Brancas was the best I ever had and I travel quite frequently. Listening to your suggestions really paid off for us as well. Staying in the Centro area was the best option. We met people from Argentina, Chile, Brazil of course and even Australia. Rio was well thought out too. Ipanema/Leblon is a great area w/ many choices. Rio has a great nightlife.

Again, great job organizing everything. Our transfer from Rio to Buzios and then back was an enjoyable ride. Ricardo was very informative friendly and really made us feel at ease. He's very good at what he does. My only problem is now I'm hooked on Brazil. How can I go back to the Caribbean when I've experienced Brazil. My crew feels the same way. Next year Floripa, Buzios and Rio in 15 days!

Obrigado,
John G

Salvador and Rio's Carnival

Dear Caroline and Jen,

I want to thank you for organizing a wonderful and absolutely great trip to Carnival for me - it was really - really wonderful! I enjoyed very much the beautiful Rio, Marcello expert, graceful, knowledgeable and gentelmanly guiding, the absolutely great frisa seats at the Sambadrome (I was sitting across from the judges), the music which I came to listen to. The Praia Ipanema Hotel was very well located - but for my next trip - I think I would maybe try one of the other two Ipanema beach hotels.

I also enjoyed very much the Salvador samba dancing workshop (which almost didn't happen, but Roberto finally succeeded to get a great dancer to dance with), and a great percussion workshop, the great Pestana Bahia hotel located at the most beautiful location.

Carol - your restaurant recommendations were wonderful as well!

I enjoyed my trip so much that I have already got you new clients for you next year: my boss the CEO of my parent Israeli company with his wife, who were so impressed with my tails - that told me they would like to do the same with you next year.

Thanks a lot - I shall use your services certainly again, because you were just great!

Best regards,
Anat Arazi
President
ASEC S.A.

Trancoso was fabulous, the highlight of our trip!

Mike and Lisa!

I just wanted to thank VIP Brazil for helping us orgnanize and execute a FABULOUS ADVETURE through Brazil!!!!

For the most part everything planned went very smooth! We where both extremely taken by Brazil's sophistication and natural beauty what a fabulous culture!!! Our stay in Buzios was great and very relaxing Casa Brancas is gourgeous and very pleasant the spa was excelent and the setting ideal!!!!

I have to say that the Trancuso experience as a final destination for rest and realxation was FABULOUS!!!!! I want to emphasize!!! that Posada Etnia is EXQUISITE and would suggest that you continue to highly recommed it to your clients!!!!

We had a wonderful adventure!!! we will recommend your services to others!

thanks for everything!

Gretchen Kimball

Brazil was great but Salvador was our favorite

Dear Caroline,

Salvador was a favorite in every way. Roberto was the perfect guide – I was very sad to leave him. He’s fun, knowledgeable and extremely helpful. We desperately wanted one of those take-away World Cup schedules so we could keep track of scores and games and he found one for us – a small example of his dedication. Cachoiera was a fantastic day – we have amazing pictures. Ditto the Folklorico, city tour, etc. The cooking class was a great evening – Marc Le Dantec took us right into his kitchen and did demos and hands on stuff then made us a fabulous dinner with equally fabulous wines. It was all very private and intimate and we were delighted. The convent hotel was everyone’s favorite – really unique

Fernando de Noronha was another great adventure. We’ve been to islands like it before – Bonaire comes to mind – and we love the culture and the tempo. and with that laid back quality of Salvador.
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Incredible as it seems not a single lost bag or late flight. Pretty amazing considering the number of airplanes and bags. We watched soccer all throughout Brazil – it was a project of sorts and the whole country was working on it with us. Futbol talk was a great icebreaker everywhere we traveled – as I’m sure you know it’s the universal language when you’re in South America!

From the start you have been responsive, professional and flexible. We have memories (and hundreds and pictures) that will last a lifetime and I thank you!

Obrigado,

Jeanne A.

Pantanal & Amazon Eco Adventure

Caroline,

George and I want to thank you for organizing an excellent trip to Brazil. At each step of the way, we were greeted and met as planned and everyone was quite helpful.

Our stay in the Pantenal was very enjoyable and it is certainly the place to go to see the wildlife. Our guide there was Zapa and I give him very high marks for his knowledge of the region. He is obviously quite interested in what he is doing and has a great regard for and sensitivity to the ecological jewel of the Pantenal. He always had his camera at hand and is quite an accomplished photographer. We would certainly recommend him to other guests.

The cruise on the Premium from Manaus was also up to expectations. The vessel was clean and the staff attentive. There were many excursions. I think in the 48 hours we were on the cruise, we got a good feel for the Amazon. I am not sure there would have been great benefit in remaining for a longer cruise in the same area. I would advise someone who had more time to take a cruise that would take them a considerable distance from Manaus. I would be interested to know if there are cruises which you can take for 5 or 6 days which would actually take you from one city to another and perhaps all the way to the mouth of the Amazon. Similarly, it might be interesting to go much further west from Manaus into the upper reaches of the Amazon or the Negro. Afterwards, we spent a few days in Rio which was also enjoyable although the weather was cool and somewhat rainy. Fortunately for us, we had good weather in the Pantenal in the Amazon.

In any case, I wish to thank you for all your help and we would be pleased to recommend your services to others who may be contemplating trips to Brazil.

Regards,

George T. Yates, III

P.S. The private plane transfer was a good idea because it gave us an aerial view of the Pantenal and avoided a three-hour drive, thereby extending the time we could spend exploring the Pantenal. Our pilot was quite good.

As to the food, the cuisine at the Caiman Resort was quite good. We were even able to have champagne. The food on the boat was less interesting, but I can appreciate that it is harder to provide good food with such a limited kitchen. They could improve their wine selection on the boat.

Overall, Brazil was a life-changing experience for me!

Hi Carol,

Brazil was amazing!!!! I have to go back. Everything went great, and Angela was really great. There was a little confusion on Marcelo's return flight, but everything worked out, and he made his flight.

Sao Paulo was great, and I even went to Rio for the day on the 19th. Marcelo and his boss were excellent hosts, and treated me like a queen while I was there. I hope you get to meet them both when your there in May.

We saw so much, including the band U2 at the restaurant we had lunch at in Sao Paulo, and there were a ton of celebrities staying at our hotel in Bahia, including the Brazilian model Daniella.

Bahia is wild, but we just blended into the crowd, and had fun. We skipped the 4th day, because we were tired, and the last day after Marcelo left I gave my tickets away to a really nice couple.

Overall, Brazil was a life-changing experience for me, and I am now looking forward to planning my next trip. If I go back for Carnival, and especially if I bring clients, I think Rio would be the better place to go. As much fun as we had in Bahia, I don't think it is for everyone. I am working on getting more people lined up for another trip, but not sure when it will happen. Either way, I will definitely call you to set it up for us.

Please keep in touch. Thank you again!!! Your the best!!!

Abracos,

Melody R.

Fabulous honeymoon

Our honeymoon in Brazil was absolutely perfect! Jeanette and I would like to thank both you and Lisa for all your hard work in putting together such an amazing package for us.

All the hotels were exceptional in terms of customer service, cleanliness, comfort, and location.

As for the tour guides, they were all great but one stood out the most. Marcelo Estevez, the tour guide in Rio was very enthusiastic, energetic and very knowledgeable about the city. Jeanette and I really enjoyed our tour with Marcelo and would highly recommend him to anyone.

The pace of our trip was perfect...we had just enough time to relax and just enough tours. The balance was great. The cities we touched were so unique therefore we really feel as though we got to taste a variety of cities in the country.

If you are putting something together for someone in the Toronto area please do not hesitate to use us as a reference.

Regards,
Owen

Honeymooning in Brazil... Sarah loved the Nannai Resort !

Caroline,

Sarah and I wanted to thank you so much for all your efforts in making our honeymoon truly amazing!! We had a wonderful time in Brazil and it would not have been the same without all your knowledge and expertise. There’s always fear of the unknown when traveling to a new country, but that fear subsided the minute we stepped off the plane in Rio, for there was our guide, Ricardo waiting there for us. He took care of everything that we needed and answered our many questions.

The Marina Palace Hotel, Pousada Casa Brancas and the Nannai were some of the best accommodations that any newlyweds could ask for. We highly recommend the honeymoon package. Sarah loved the Nannai. She is already asking me when we can go back!!!

Attached are some pictures of us at all of the glorious locations for you to see. Again, we truly thank you. This trip would not have been possible without you.

Your friends,
Tripp and Sarah B.

Amazing Trip!

Dear Lisa,

Whew are we ever tired! What an amazing trip though! It was certainly worth the crazy travel schedule (my fault -I know due to the late booking).

Caroline, I wish all travel agents could be like you. Your service to us was remarkable! You even knew (within an hour) that we had delayed one of the local drivers to pick us up and called us in Brazil to check if everything was OK!  You are amazing.

Everywhere that you sent us was great! The tour guides were amazing, and Boca do Ceu was incredible (as was Rudolpho). We wanted to stay at another place and you gently guided us to "Rudolpho on the hill"

We threw a couple of curves at you when we wanted to change the itinerary in the middle of the trip to hunt the sunny weather. You handled them with real concern. C-O-N-C-E-R-N   Yes! It is a strength that the travel business has managed to put aside in our modern era. I would recommend you to anyone who walks by me on the sidewalk!


That's it for now,
Gil

Buzios, Rio and Angra excursion.

Hey there,

The trip went amazing. now if you guys had only had a little talk with the clouds and had them stay away for the first few days it would have been even more amazing. Marcelo was right there waiting for us when we got off the plane and throughout the whole trip it was a please being with him. Angra was beautiful day one, but then came some clouds/rain on the next 4-5 days. unfortunate yes, but we were still able to have a real relaxing time. the Marina Palace also served us nicely and the location in leblon could not have been better.

The real highlight of the trip though was Buzios. The city, and Boca do Ceu in particular, was spectacular. The trip went very smoothly with transfers and accomedations. thanks for planning such a great trip for us!

Noah and Lisa

I think Buzios was our favorite, especially Casas Brancas.

Hi Carol and Mike,

Just wanted to thank you for making fabulous travel arrangements for our trip to Brazil. We had the most wonderful time. I think Buzios was our favorite, especially Casas Brancas. We rented a dune buggy and drove around the island and checked out Hotel Brava. It was a great hotel, awesome design and layout, but we liked Casas Brancas better for the spa, ambience, and location. All transportation arrangements worked out with great service and friendly English speaking hosts. We appreciate all the suggestions and accommodations you made, making it one of the best trips we've ever had. With our connections down there we will certainly be going back and wouldn't hesitate to enlist your services again. Our Brazilian friends keep recommending we come down for carnival. Maybe next time!

Best regards,
Lucy Davisson