(83 Reviews)
98% Recommended

Rey Alton

Bellaire, TX
Travel Lifestyle Specialist

The process of planning, coordinating, booking, and managing travel arrangements can be a daunting experience.  But, with a seasoned and respected travel advisor, your travel planning experience will be streamlined and hassle-free. With more than ...
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Rio de Janeiro Travel Agent Expert

Rio de Janeiro is one of Brazil's most iconic and vibrant cities, known for its stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and rich cultural heritage. Located on the southeastern coast, Rio is famous for its beautiful landscapes, lively festivals, and the legendary Carnival. With its unique mix of urban energy and natural beauty, Rio offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. 


 


Top 5 Places to Visit in Rio de Janeiro:



  • Christ the Redeemer – One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this colossal statue sits atop Corcovado Mountain. Offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, it's a must-see for any visitor. 

  • Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) – For breathtaking views of Rio’s coastline, Guanabara Bay, and iconic beaches, take the cable car ride up to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain. It’s one of the most famous spots in the city for unforgettable photos. 

  • Copacabana Beach – Known worldwide for its golden sands and vibrant atmosphere, Copacabana Beach is perfect for a day of relaxation, beach sports, or people-watching. The beach is lined with bars, cafes, and restaurants, making it a lively hub day and night. 

  • Ipanema Beach – Famous for its role in the song “The Girl from Ipanema,” this beach is known for its beautiful scenery, upscale shopping, and relaxed yet chic vibe. It’s the place to go for a more sophisticated beach experience. 

  • Selarón Steps (Escadaria Selarón) – These colorful mosaic steps, created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, connect the neighborhoods of Santa Teresa and Lapa. The vibrant, multicolored tiles reflect Rio’s rich cultural diversity and make for a great photo op. 


 


10 Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro:



  • Visit Christ the Redeemer – Take the train or hike up to the top of Corcovado Mountain to see the famous Christ the Redeemer statue, offering one of the best views of Rio and the surrounding bay.

  • Relax on Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches – Spend time unwinding on these iconic beaches, whether you're sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a refreshing coconut drink by the shore.

  • Hike to Sugarloaf Mountain – Ride the cable car or, for a more adventurous experience, hike to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views of the city, bay, and beaches.

  • Explore the Selarón Steps – Wander up the colorful Selarón Steps, taking in the vibrant mosaics that span over 200 steps, representing a blend of Rio's history and culture.

  • Experience Rio Carnival – If you're visiting between February and March, don't miss the Rio Carnival, a world-famous celebration of music, dance, and parades. It’s an explosion of color, energy, and Brazilian culture.

  • Take a boat trip in Guanabara Bay – Explore Rio from the water with a boat tour around the picturesque Guanabara Bay, offering views of Sugarloaf Mountain, the city skyline, and hidden beaches.

  • Visit the Museum of Tomorrow (Museu do Amanhã) – This futuristic science museum in the Porto Maravilha district focuses on sustainability, innovation, and the environment, with thought-provoking exhibits and interactive displays.

  • Stroll through the Rio Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico) – Enjoy the tranquility of this lush garden, home to a vast collection of plants from around the world, including tropical species and rare orchids.

  • Explore the Santa Teresa Neighborhood – Known for its bohemian atmosphere, Santa Teresa is a charming neighborhood filled with narrow streets, colonial-style houses, vibrant street art, and cozy cafes.

  • Go hang gliding over Rio – For an unforgettable adventure, take a tandem hang-gliding flight from Pedra Bonita. Soar over the city, flying past forests, mountains, beaches, and Rio’s skyline, offering a bird’s-eye view of the city’s beauty.


Rio de Janeiro offers a mix of natural beauty, thrilling activities, and rich cultural experiences, making it one of the most exciting cities to explore in Brazil.

My Reviews

72 of 116 people found this review helpful
Another fabulous trip!
Rey has booked several domestic and international trips for me over the years. Each time the experience was fantastic. Rey is not only a knowledgeable and experienced travel agent, he is patient with groups and always provides stellar customer service. The resorts are always fabulous and his recommendations on what to do when we arrive at our destinations make my vacations more enjoyable. I’ve counted on Rey to book fabulous vacations for over 10 years and he always delivers the best. I’ve always enjoyed the individual attention and care Rey provides his clients. He understands the apprehension that comes along with trying new places and is thorough and accommodating as a result. He’s also great at making suggestions on future vacations and I’ve never been disappointed when I follow his suggestions. Rey will remain my travel confidante for many years to come. He’s the best, hands down!
By  TC  from  San Antonio, Texas
Traveled to  Punta Cana ~ Dominican Republic ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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72 of 121 people found this review helpful
Travel Expert
We have worked with Rey for many years and have always enjoyed the experience. Most of our travel has been river cruises in Europe but last year we did a trip to South Africa. Rey is very thoughtful, thorough and responsive.
By  Randy  from  Houston
Traveled to  Europe
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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63 of 109 people found this review helpful
Destination Wedding Planner
Love working w/ Rey! Very knowledgable and detailed!! Definitely recommend to any and everyone traveling abroad.
By  Destination Wedding Planner - Elite Eventz   from  Houston, Texas
Traveled to  Jamaica ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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63 of 112 people found this review helpful
July 4th Fun!!!
Rey and the Almeda Travel family have been so good to my family in assisting us in all of our travel needs/goals from beginning to return. Rey has shown nothing but the utmost professionalism, patience,guidance, and quality service that is so difficult to find these days. We have trusted Almeda Travel for the last 5-6 years for our vacations and will continue to do so, I also strongly recommend if you’re looking for an agent/team that is knowledgeable and consumer responsive go with Almeda Travel!
By  Lady on the Go  from  Beaumont, Texas
Traveled to  Washington D.C. ~ District of Columbia ~ USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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56 of 100 people found this review helpful
Anniversary Trip
I have the opportunity to book travel with Rey at Alameda Travel several times over the past 5-8years. He is very informative and knowledgeable about different places to travel and the hospitality service companies in those areas. I have been very pleased with every interactions and trip we have been on.
By  Chris Cooper  from  Humble, Texas
Traveled to  Montego Bay ~ Jamaica ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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Destination Expert:

  • Rio de Janeiro
  • Brazil
  • South America

Travel Specialist:

  • Honeymoons
  • Couples & Romance
  • Beach Vacations
  • Adventure
  • Nature

Certifications/Awards:

  • CTIE
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2013
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2011
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2009

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