Travel Agent - September 15, 2008 - (Page 42)

DESTINATIONS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41 body treatments, as well as it own beauty salon. Agents should call 011-55-22-2623-1458 and ask for General Manager Amalia de La Maria or e-mail info@casasbrancas.com. Villa Rasa Marina (www.villarasamarina. com.br) is the newest hotel in Buzios, in Praia Rasa, which is said to be one of the calmest areas of the peninsula. The property is the latest hotel from Marina Hotels in Buzios, having just opened in March. Representatives told us that this property is ideal for clients looking for a luxury brand in an exclusive setting. The hotel is about a two-hour drive, or a 20-minute flight, from Rio de Janeiro. It offers 35 rooms and suites, the best of which is the Suite da Villa, a 970-square-foot, oceanview room. The loft-style interior space is 570 square feet and features a rustic straw-lined roof, king-size bed, living area, bathroom and a private Jacuzzi with an ocean view. Additionally, this room has a terrace with 400 square feet of space. We were told this room is perfect for honeymooners. There is only one of these at the property, so agents should book at least a month in advance. Agents should visit the site or e-mail reservas@hoteismarina.com.br. For families, as well as couples, we recommend the Rio Buzios Hotel (www.riobuzios. com.br), which has 64 rooms, all with king-size beds and balconies. The best rooms are the Deluxe Rooms, which all come with Jacuzzis. The A guest room at Villa Rasa Marina AGENTADVICE “There is a wide choice of wonderful restaurants in Buzios. I love Cigalon, an elegant restaurant right on the water [that serves] great seafood,” Martin Rapp of Altour says. “Sawasdee is where to go for great Thai food made with Brazilian ingredients. Sushi Jardin is for those craving Japanese food. For a lighter snack, sample the great crepes at Chez Michou. “Rua das Pedras and surrounding streets are the center of Buzios’ nightlife,” Rapp adds. “Privilege is a sleek club with two dance floors and multiple bars. Patio Havana is where to go to hear the best of Brazilian music and Bato is my favorite spot to watch the sun go down while sipping a Caipirinha.” travel agent liaison at the property is Marcos Ricar, who can be reached at 011-55-22-26230312 or riobuzios@riobuzios.com.br. Another great property for families is the Atlântico Búzios Convention & Resort (www. atlanticobuzios.com.br), which has 135 guest rooms in three categories: Standard, Deluxe and Super Deluxe. It also has two outdoor pools (one specifically for children), a game room and massage rooms among other features. The travel agent liaison at the property is Luis Guedes, who can be reached at 011-55-22-2620-8850 or reserva@atlanticobuzios.com.br. Orient Express recently bought a piece of property a short walk from the town, and is planning to build a small, deluxe beachfront property there. families as well, since it has an abundance of great restaurants and water activities. People from Rio de Janeiro usually go to Buzios for weekends and holidays. The typical stay is about two to three days. According to Buzios tourism officials, in the summer, the destination tends to see about 1 million total visitors. How to Get There The nearest airport is Galeão International Airport in Rio de Janeiro. Most major U.S. carriers fly there. Transfers from the airport can be arranged and rental cars can also be booked by calling local transportation company Venturini (www.venturinirentacar.com.br) at 011-55-222623-61867 or venturini_car@uol.com.br. I CONNECTING YOU Have clients heading to Central and South America? Visit www.travelagentcentral.com/central-south-america Who Goes There? Although it is predominantly a spot for younger clients looking to party into the early morning, Buzios is also a great sell for older couples and 42 | TravelAgent September 15, 2008 http://www.villarasamarina.com.br http://www.villarasamarina.com.br http://www.riobuzios.com.br http://www.riobuzios.com.br http://www.atlanticobuzios.com.br http://www.atlanticobuzios.com.br http://www.venturinirentacar.com.br http://www.travelagentcentral.com/central-south-america

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Travel Agent - September 15, 2008 Online Now Contents Agent Insider From the Editor Hawaii Europe Pacific/Asia Las Vegas US Airways Vacations - Atlantis, Paradise Island Specialist Central & South America Mexico Caribbean Cruises Cover Story: Merge Mania France by Rail Weddings & Honeymoons Gay & Lesbian Travel Tours Agent Profile Triptailor Vacations Agenda: Fam Trips, Deals & Incentives, Calendar Vegas Week Insights on Singapore Travel Leaders Builds New Alliances The Latest from the Caribbean A Sneak Peek at a New Ship Classified Marketplace In the Spotlight Editorial Index Advertising Index Trendwatch Special Supplement: Thailand Travel Planner

Travel Agent - September 15, 2008

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