My friend and I will be in Rio for a couple of weeks later this month. We would like to find a driver to drive/show us around for the first couple of days. Has anyone ever done this? I could call the consulate (in LA) but thought I'd try this first.

Well, you should have no problem hiring a driver in Rio, there would be many drivers who would be glad to accommodate you. I have hired drivers to take me places for example to Buzios but I never hired one for all day. When you get there you will see that as you take various taxis around town many of them will give you their card and tell you to call them when you need them. Just negotiate the price where you want to go and have fun. Usuaklly there are drivers hanging out side most hotels looking for tourists.

We stayed at the Sofitel in Rio and the concierge arranged a driver for us. He was great! If you stay at a good hotel, the concierge should be able to help you. It was worth the money for us and we felt safe being that we are two young women travelling alone.

mgfit - how is the sofitel - considering b/w this and meridien. thanks. if you can respond here

The Sofitel is nice. I stayed in a room in the back, overlooking the pool, that was fairly large. Moved to an ocean view room that was 60% as large as the first one, but the view was marvelous.

There's a patio restaurant with great views. You see all of Copacabana Beach and out to the Pao de Azucar.

Better location, I think, than the Meridien.