Erasing borders

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Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:30:00 -0500

Equatorial Velocity and Things We Love.

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:13:22 -0500

4 years of spinning, 1 day of fun

It took our planet 4 years of spinning at 1040.402 mph to generate one extra day, commonly known as February 29. Don’t let this precious energy vanish without a trace.

What are the things that come to mind when you hear February? The chances are ‘14’ and ‘Valentine’s’ are among those. And it’s all about love!

So, pick a day in February and do what you love. In case your love affairs require international travel, 14% off passport and visa services are on us. Simply enter ‘LOVE14HQ’ promo code at check out and we will do the rest. That is you rest and we do what we love.

2012 Apocalypse Update. Code: 534.

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 10:48:15 -0500

Happy (5). New (3). Year (4).

Mayan calendar is mean. What could be worse than waiting almost a year to find out if we are all doomed!? Not to mention, during the holidays season next December. We had a different understanding of ‘Erasing borders’ when choosing a motto back in 2003.

It’s not too late. Add something to your New Year resolution. Leave all the concerns and worries in 2011. Imprint a smile of our Snowman and carry it with you all year long. It will only take one to three bites of your memory, depending on a format: 1. ) 2. :) 3. :-)

Spread the optimism! It is contagious and works like a charm. And charm is the best equalizer for any spell, even on a cataclysmic scale. Almost forgot, use HAPPY12HQ to save 12% of VisaHQ service fees in January of 2012. Smile sincere, smile often. Happy New Year!

Black [Square] Friday Avant-garde Savings What does Black Square...

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 23:46:00 -0500

Black [Square] Friday Avant-garde Savings

What does Black Square by Kazimir Malevich and Red Square in Moscow have in common? Easy to remember, hard to forget. There are so many other “squares” in the world to add to this analogy, that we encourage you to find yours and share it with VisaHQ community.

Savings? Of course. It’s a Black Friday for consumers’ sake. Save 15% off all U.S. passport and visa services by entering MALEVICHQ promo code at check-out. Peer to peer sharing of this promotion is hundred per cent legal, so spread the word in Avant-garde style.

Think you can't afford a round the world trip? Think again!

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 10:01:13 -0500

Often times people think about an around the word trip or at least taking a year off to travel. The thing that stops them most is the actual fear of going and not having a job or income. One of the next things people think about is will they have enough money while they are traveling. The truth is that even if you don’t have a ton of money now, you can still do your around the world trip. Here are a few things that you can do to make your round the world trip possible.

1. Learn to live off the basics.

Instead of buying those new shoes or eating out at a fancy restaurant, learn to cut back and only buy food that you need or replace shoes when your current shoes are ruined. Learning to reduce your spend on clothes you don’t need and meals you could have spent less on will help you reduce your travel costs greatly.

2. Get a teaching certificate.

There are tons of jobs teaching English abroad. Some countries do require you to have an English Teaching Certificate like an TESOL/TEFL certificate. By having a job in each country you are going to, you can not only help to make up for a lack of funds, but you can also further get to learn and enjoy the culture of the countries you are visiting.

3. Set up a blog and social media accounts.

It is extremely easy to set up a Wordpress blog now. You can also get extremely affordable hosting for it if you don’t use free hosting. Then reach out to other travel bloggers when you have started blogging and ask for cross promotions and partnerships. You can also ask them to guest blog on your site. Not only will they normally tweet out the post giving you exposure to their readers, but you’ll also build a following. Once you have that following you can monetize the blog as well as ask for sponsorships and free airline tickets or hotel rooms from Marketing and PR Departments at different travel companies in exchange for reviews. You can even add in the VisaHQ affiliate program and help your readers apply for US passports and visas online, not to mention earn commissions off of each sale.

There are a ton of ways that you can make extra money while you are traveling so that you don’t have to starve. You just have to set up your plan ahead of time and make sure that you can cut out expenses that you do not need. Please feel free to share your own ideas and comments below if you have any other ways to make money abroad or cut down your costs of living so you can travel.

Do you have any success stories? Share it here.

Wishing Well 2.0 debutes on 11.11.11

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 19:07:48 -0500

Upgrade your old habit to toss coins into a liquid substance and wishing you will return there. Start with a fresh thought of where you want to go and we will gladly deposit 11% of your passport or visa services into the virtual wishing well, so you can return there any time.

Skeptical of virtual reality wishes coming true? Convert your savings into local currency and go old school. Please avoid coin pollution and be considerate of what you wish for. Sharing the savings with your peers boosts the magic both statistically and spiritually.

Copy our promo code ‘11HQ11’ and start your application for travel wishes here.

Erasing BOO-rders! Traveling abroad this Halloween?...

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 11:38:23 -0400

Erasing BOO-rders!

Traveling abroad this Halloween? Wouldn’t you miss all the calories galore at home? We would. And we won’t let you. Save on passport and visa services now and treat yourself at the duty-free later.

We have ran very complex statistical computations to arrive at 11% discount for treats allowance. As long as you stay within the budget, all burnt and consumed calories should square off at the end of your journey.

Ready to roll? Good. Copy ‘BOO11HQ’ and click here to start your application.

From Russia with Halloween creep. Street art. Riverbank art....

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 09:33:00 -0400

From Russia with Halloween creep. ~~Street art.~~ Riverbank art. Unknown artist. Post here, if you know exactly where it is in Russia.

A first-time traveler's guide: Preparing for travel to India

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 17:04:31 -0400

Imagine visiting beautiful palaces, fragrant temples, listening to peaceful chanting, running your hands over thousand year old sculptures and eating authentically delicious food. And then there’s the reality of the crowded airports, smelly restrooms, loud traffic, dusty streets and if you’re not careful, the water that can make you sick. A trip to India is a paradox a wonderful experience juxtaposed with reality - either way an onslaught on all your five senses.

Home to approximately one sixth of the world’s population, India is the seventh largest country in the world. This could mean many months of travel within India and not scratching the surface of what the country has to offer.

The most frequently visited part of India is undoubtedly the “Golden Triangle”. This comprises of Delhi (the nation’s capital), Jaipur and Agra. The city like other major metropolitan cities around the world is polluted, crowded and noisy. Delhi is rich in history and comprises of several impressive monuments including the Mughal Red Fort, the solid stone tower of Qutub Minar and the India gate (built to honor the 90,000 Indian soldiers who died during World War 1). There are numerous temples and mosques including the Birla Mandir, the Bahai Temple and the Jama Masjid Mosque. It is important to remember when visiting holy places to respect local customs, particularly that of removing footwear when entering a temple. Delhi prides itself in the beautiful gardens in the city such as famous Lodi Gardens and the Mughal Gardens located in the Presidential Residence. Delhi is centrally located for travel to Agra and Jaipur.

India’s most famous tourist attraction, the Taj Mahal is in Agra. A three hour train journey or a 30 minute flight will bring you to the great Moghul monument that took over twenty years to build. Emperor Shah Jahan built this magnificent structure to immortalize the love for his wife who died during childbirth. The Taj Mahal is made entirely of pure white marble and its pure white walls are decorated with exquisite “pietra dure” (stone inlay work). It is said that different types of precious and semi-precious stones were used in the intricate inlay work Agra is also famous for another UNESCO World Heritage site, the Agra Fort. Made out of red sandstone, the fort was home to several great Mughal Kings and even contained the largest state treasury and mint. Within its walls lies the grand enclosure for harem festivities and included pools and fountains. While a neighboring structure housed the King’s wives and mistresses. This fort is comprised of magnificent gardens, mosques and grand pavilions that reflect the bygone era of luxurious royal living.

The final corner of the “Golden Triangle” is Jaipur popularly knows as the “Pink City” for its imitation pink stucco buildings and walls. The most famous palace is the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds).It was built in 1799 as an extension to the city palace. Its main purpose was to allow royal ladies of the King’s harem to observe everyday street life without being seen. The breeze that circulates through the 953 small windows facing the street gives the palace its name. Another interesting monument is the “Jantar Mantar” which is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments built in 1727. Some other tourist attractions in Jaipur include the Jal Mahal or “Water Palace” (which sits in the center of the Man Sarobar lake), the Amber Fort, the Jaigarh Fort (that still houses the medieval cannons including the world’s largest cannon on wheels). Jaipur is also famous for its Johari Bazaar (a jewelry market).

For those who do not wish to be too adventurous on their first trip to India, a relaxing beach vacation in Goa maybe a great alternative. With its beautiful beaches and large Roman Catholic presence the city lends a much more western feel unlike any place in India. One of the main tourist attractions is the Christian religious site the Basilica of Bom Jesus (that holds the mortal remains of St.Francis Xavier).

The southern state of Kerala presents several five star luxurious hotels such as the Kumarakom Lake Resort that provide travelers with ayurvedic massages, dance performances, along with boat rides as well as delicious food. Tourist attractions include a bird sanctuary and the largest backwater Vembanad Lake.

As with travel anywhere beware of scam artists and pick pockets. Drink water only from sealed distilled water bottles to prevent the popular malady “Delhi belly”.

India’s colorful and diverse culture rich in sights, sounds, smells and tastes are like nothing you can experience in the Western World. Pack a few chill pills and enjoy the country for all that it has to offer.

Here are some quick facts to know before you go:

Visa:

Visas are required by all visiting foreign nationals. Valid for 6 months from date of issue and allow for multiple entry. Check india.visahq.com for costs, application procedures, process times etc.

When to go:

The seasons in India can be divided into three: the hot, the wet and the cool. The hot season (March through May) sees temperatures as high as 113 degrees making the central plains very dry and dusty. The wet season starts in the South in early June and makes its way north by July. The best time to visit India is the cool season between November and February.

Getting there:

Most international flights land at Delhi or Mumbai. But you can also fly into any of the other major metropolitan cities of Kolkatta and Chennai.

Language:

Hindi and several hundred local languages and dialects. English is spoken widely by all in the tourist industry and educated classes.

Immunizations & health:

Immunization against hepatitis A and B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies and typhoid may be necessary. Malaria still exists around the country. Topical anti-mosquito creams and lotions alone will not suffice. It is strongly advisable to take prescription anti-malarial medicine. It is unsafe to drink water out of faucets. Always buy bottled water with its seal intact. Carry anti-diarrhea medications as a precaution.

5 Museums You Must Visit in Washington DC

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 16:19:24 -0400

Washington DC is not only the home of politics in the USA, it is also the home to numerous museums with exhibits you will not be able to find anywhere else in the world. With too many museums to choose from, we want to recommend a few that are must see museums if you are visiting Washington DC.

1. The American History Museum.

The American History Museum is one that helps you relive some of your favorite moments from American history. Not only can you find memorabilia from your favorite tv shows and music stars, but you can also find exhibits on medicine, American artifacts and even a collection of Apple computers.

2. The Holocaust Museum.

The Holocaust Museum will take you throughout one of the most gruesome and memorable events of the 1900’s. You’ll get to see artifacts from the Holocaust as well as video and pictures of what life was like for the people who had lived and died during this time. The Holocaust Museum is a great museum for learning about this period of time, and it is one that definitely has an impact on you so make sure you are prepared for it mentally.

3. The Natural History Museum.

The Natural History Museum is one of my favorites. They feature everything from dinosaurs to the hall of gems. You can find everything from precious stones like the Hope Diamond to an amazing collection of plant life. The Natural History Museum is educational and fun for your entire family.

4. The American Spy Museum.

Have you ever wanted to be like James Bond? You may never get the chance in real life, but at the Spy Museum you can find one of his original cars. When you walk in you get to pick a name and a story and then watch a movie about how spies are currently working around the world and different ways they use to communicate. This is one of the more fun and interactive museums and a great one to take your family to.

5. The Air and Space Museum.

The Air and Space Museum is a great place to discover the universe. You can find everything from information about the planets to the Wright Brothers and even see their airplane. The Air and Space Museum features everything from missiles to what astronauts wore when in flight and features numerous movies about air and space.

Washington DC is home to many incredible museums. You could easily spend a week here and not get to see them all. It is important to pick which ones you want to see the most and then also plan out what exhibits are most important to you.

Time Travel with VisaHQ in October

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 21:14:00 -0400

Did you miss annual passport day held by the Department of State on September 17, 2011?

We will take you back in time through the end of October.

Save 15% off passport and visa services by entering ‘DOS15HQ’ code at check-out.

Reblog to help fellow travelers stuck back in time.

BBC News - British passport forms to get same-sex parents option

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 17:50:02 -0400

BBC News - British passport forms to get same-sex parents option

New $100 single-layer polymer note is set to surface in Canada...

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 14:11:27 -0400

New $100 single-layer polymer note is set to surface in Canada starting November, 2011.

Secure: Their leading-edge security features are easy to verify and hard to counterfeit.
Durable: They last at least 2.5 times longer than paper notes, reducing processing and replacement costs and environmental impact.
Innovative: The detailed metallic imagery carried in a transparent area of the notes makes for one-of-a-kind currency.
Easy to Handle: The new notes feel different from paper notes, but are just as simple to use.

A first-time traveler's guide to Russia

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 09:13:44 -0400

Traveling to a different country for the first time, can indeed be a memorable experience. Researching the country a little, and having ample knowledge of the customs, currency, climate, traditions, language, visa regulations, and so forth, will have you breathing easy, rather than stressed out and nervous. Thus your stay will definitely be worth remembering.

Prior to embarking on your journey, ensure that you are fit to travel, have had all immunization that you need, and indeed have a clean bill of health. Russian visas, passports and travel permits need to be up to date and carried at all times. Ensure that you arrive at the airport or ship dock, at least two hours prior to departure. This will assist in having bags weighed; passports cleared and so forth, in ample time.

You will need accommodation documentation, as well as consent from the Ministry of foreign affairs to even get into this country. But oh how worth it all it shall be, once your eyes settle on the many picturesque scenes that will indeed delight the eyes. Rows and rows of glorious stately birch trees, with sunlight filtering through, shall herald spring, while the soft powder fine snow shall delicately decorate the hills and mountains within the winter, making for such a glorious view indeed.

Delight at the crystal covered ponds, iced up so well that you can play “Huckleberry Finn” by grabbing a fishing pole, cutting a small hole through the ice, and catching a good size fish for supper. Or cast the eyes to the many stately churches that stand so proud. So much to see and so much to do, yet do yourself a favor and have all your entry papers, visitor documentation, visas, travel permits and entry consent forms taken care of, well before you set of on your travels.

Make sure that you lodge your visa application at least three months prior to your travel. This can be done on the Internet. The Ministry Of Foreign Affairs has strict rules and regulations for visitors, and yes this may seem a little daunting. They will take into account why you are visiting, where you intend to stay, who you will be staying with, as well as the length of your trip. It will all seem a little overwhelming yet don’t stress, it is not as bad as many think.

No doubt you will choose to enter Russia via Moscow, the Domodedovo airport is now so modern, and indeed has had a major architectural overhaul. What a hustling bustling place this is. Delight at the Russian attire, as you listen to the fast and perhaps confusing flow of many different conversations. Notice how happy the people seem. They indeed are a very friendly and welcoming nation.

On the bad side of the coin, is the fact that if you arrive via Sheremetyevo, you had better resign yourself to the fact that you may be in for a frustratingly long wait. The customs clearing process is a long and rather tedious affair. You will need to fill in two forms for immigration clearance. One part you will need to keep, and show on your departure. These forms can be obtained on the plane, so request them and have them filled out long before you arrive at your destination. This will assist in cutting down the clearance process.

Don’t stress, remember that this is all part and parcel of traveling. This airport was actually constructed specifically for the 1980 Moscow Olympics so grab your camera and take some photos of what is actually a part of history. Just grin and bare it all, being annoyed won’t help any.

If you are hoping to get a taxi from the airport other than be picked up by an acquaintance, be cautious, as fares will vary depending on the taxi driver. The ride can often be a hair-raising experience, with cracked windows which seem to be the go in Russia! You can on the other hand, engage a taxi through a car company at the arrivals hall.

This is certainly much safer and is more advisable. Your fee will be paid prior to your short journey. You will also be able to use your credit card. But take note that there are some hotels, stores and restaurants that will not accept credit cards. Master card and Visa cards are the more acceptable cards. American Express is not too popular in Russia.

The currency in Russia is rubles. There are many banks or cash exchange booths which will have signs which display the words “Ob-men Vayuty.” (Currency exchange) only undamaged banknotes will be accepted. If your notes are torn or old, they will only be exchanged at banks. Be forewarned!

The temperatures vary to the extreme, with freezing winters which can go as low as -13F, particularly in Moscow. Even lower in some other areas, so take plenty of thermal underwear and ensure that warm coats, mittens, scarves, hats, and so forth are packed. Thick waterproof boots are a must. Within the summer the temperatures can reach the mid nineties. Be warned that the mosquitoes can carry you off, they’re gigantic!

Did you know that Russia is actually the largest country in the world? It also has enormous energy and mineral resources. More than ten years (a decade) after the Soviet Union collapse in 1991, Russia is still attempting to develop further their market economy in hope of achieving a much better economic growth. Russia’s average salary has fortunately increased to $540 (approximately $920 PPP) per month, in comparison to $65 per month in August 1999.

Russia is actually home to a staggering 160 different ethnic groups, as well as indigenous people. The Russian census bureau saw 79.8% of the population as ethnic Russians, while 3.8% were Tatar,2% were Ukrainian, 1.2% Bashkir, 1.1% Chuvash,0.9% Chechen, 0.8% Armenian and finally 10.3% were unspecified.

With the Russian constitution they guarantee free universal health care to all of its citizens of Russian descent. The Russian language is the only “official” spoken language, yet the republics have incorporated their native language as a co-official means of speech, next to the Russian language. The Russian language is actually 3,000 to 4,000 years old! The traditional religions of Russia are Buddhism, Judaism, and Islam.

The Russian culture is indeed a varied one, filled with rich cuisine, and Russian art, which has made its mark within the world, and indeed literature. Their literature has been so influential to the world. Particularly involving their great sense of humor. The classic music world was also greatly influenced by the Russians, they certainly produced some great composers.

You certainly will enjoy your trip as Russia is such a magnificent country. Most of the teenagers and young folk speak English, yet most of the older residents won’t. Although the Russians may speak as if extremely stern this is simply their speaking voice. One on one you will find them lovely people, with a generous persona as well as cheeky within their humor. Very proud people they are, and in saying that, attempt to dress in their manner, and not insult them with outrageous and inappropriate dress standards.

Last but not least I advise you to partake of their wonderful cuisine, as well as visit the ballet theaters. Be prepared to dance your feet off, as they certainly are energetic on the dance floor. Watch you don’t drink too many vodkas or cognac. They love the stuff!

Finally, enjoy yourself, let your hair down and have a wonderful stay!

With a holiday season around the corner everyone gets in mood....

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 18:07:31 -0400

With a holiday season around the corner everyone gets in mood. Frogs are no exception. Take a look at the evidence provided by James Snyder to National Geographic ‘Your Shot’ contest:

This is a Cuban tree frog on a tree in my backyard in southern Florida. How and why he ate this light is a mystery. It should be noted that at the time I was taking this photo, I thought this frog was dead, having cooked himself from the inside. I’m happy to say I was wrong. After a few shots he adjusted his position. So after I was finished shooting him, I pulled the light out of his mouth and he was fine. Actually, I might be crazy but I don’t think he was very happy when I took his light away.

High resolution image (1600x1200) is available as a desktop wallpaper.

Traveling to Brazil: Safety Tips

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 23:41:00 -0400

Brazil is such an amazing place to visit, yet be cautious, alert, and advised, that Brazil has one of the highest crime rates in the world. I urge you to exercise caution as serious crime runs rampant there, as does sea piracy, as well as high levels of violent attacks upon tourists who travel alone.

Thus you will need to pay close attention to your personal safety and security, as well as your personal belongings. Take note that identity theft is a big issue in Brazil. Therefore be cautious when attending celebrations, protests and demonstrations. Thieves simply love these as they can mingle, snatch purses etc and then mingle with the dense crowd. Most demonstrations unfortunately turn violent so don’t place yourself at risk.

Ensure that you have a high level of travel insurance, I advise you to invest in the comprehensive one, as these will usually cover everything. Be sure to read the fine print, as many policies do not cover credit card theft. Be a smart traveler and cover every aspect of traveling prior to the onset of your journey.

I strongly urge you to make sure that your insurance covers overseas medical costs. The insurance needs to cover you from the onset of your journey until your return home. Some activities may not be covered with your policy. Take into account also, that many incidents that can occur, are often deemed as “Acts of God” and are not covered by some policies. The old saying that “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel” is so true. Don’t forget that you must carry identification with you at all times. This is a legal requirement.

Within large cities such as Campinas, Rio as well as Sao Paulo, the medical facilities are actually comparable to Australian standards. But outside of these large cities medical facilities can be appalling as well as extremely limited. Ensure that you’re immunization needs are up to date. The medical treatment costs in Brazil are sky high, so insurance is a must. In many cases cash payment is forced prior to medical services are issued. (This even applies to emergencies.) In the case of an accident or serious illness, this can involve thousands of dollars.

Brazil is classified as the “ball park” of Malaria infection, other insect related diseases such as dengue fever and leishmanias is a major risk to tourists. More so in the wet seasons. A major health alert has been only recently declared this year 2007, with record levels of recorded Dengue fever cases. Insect repellent and prophylaxis is highly recommended. Ask you general practitioner’s advice prior to your trip. Yellow fever is another water/food borne infection which runs rampant, so too does hepatitis, typhoid fever, and rabies.

Do not drink the water in Brazil as schistosomiasis (Which is a parasitic infection that often is contracted through the drinking water) is often found in Brazil. Be wary of the water you swim in. Brazil is also a high AIDS/HIV risk factor in this country. Exercise commonsense and much caution, if engaging in activities which may have you exposed to these infections.

Be prepared for major delays when traveling with domestic flights within Brazil, many flights are notorious for being late. Be prepared for long waits at airports. Make sure to keep your passport with Brazil visa in a safe place. Do not wander away from airports as there is indeed a significant chance of becoming lost if you should veer towards the remote areas of this country. Particularly if you are anywhere near the Amazon border area or the Pantanal Wetlands. If in doubt seek out a travel guide.

If you are hoping to drive in Brazil I would advise against it. This is an extremely dangerous venture, as Brazil has a high record of appalling, aggressive driving skills, many deeply rutted, unmaintained roads, as well as a high amount of trucks and slow vehicles on most of the main roads.

WILDLIFE WATCHING:

Maintain a safe and legal approach when near any wildlife .Follow all wildlife park rules and do not venture near wild animals without a guide. Do not disregard wardens directions or rulings.

NATURAL DISASTERS:

Landslide as well as flash flooding occurs on many occasions, particularly in the wet season. In the case of a natural disaster occurring, do not panic if at all possible. Follow instructions that local authorities give.

YOUR VALUABLES AND MONEY:

Organize all traveler’s cheques, credit cards, and ATM cards. Make sure they are all up to date. Check that ATM cards are accepted at your chosen destination. Make sure that all these are kept with you at all times. Do not make a show of exposing these to any passers-by. Photocopy tickets, visa, passports and so forth. Keep a copy with you and also have a family member mind the other back at home. You may need these at your embassy, if you have any problems while traveling, such as mugging, theft, assault emergencies etc.

When in market places, shops, hotels etc do not flash money or expensive jewelery, this will only make you a prime target for a robbery/assault. Leave all expensive jewelery at home if you prize your personal safety. Expensive watches, cameras, necklaces, rings, bracelets, etc beckon a would be robber. Don’t tempt them!

Have all valuables under lock and key, (Keep the key on a chain around your neck perhaps) this will assist in alleviating baggage tampering as well. (Particularly in airport terminals etc. )Passports and visas in particular, are a great attraction to many criminals. Often these stolen items are used to commit horrendous crimes using someone else’s identity. Keep these in a safe place, do NOT ask motel receptionists to mind them, as often they sell them to known criminals. If your visa or passport is lost, contact your country’s embassy immediately.

LOCAL LAWS APPLY TO YOU:

The laws in Brazil may seem harsh in comparison to what you are used to. Don’t do any crime. Then you won’t do any time. Trafficking drugs brings an extremely lengthy imprisonment in Brazil. Not carrying identification upon you at all times can also incur a prison sentence. There are no laws against homosexuality yet take into account people’s sensitivities, more so when traveling in the rural areas.

DUAL NATIONALS:

Australian/ Brazilian Males aged over 18, who reside long term within Brazil are required by law to register for military services. If you are dual national, contact your nearest Brazilian Consulate or embassy for more detailed information.

BAZILLION CULTURE:

Brazil’s culture is now based on a Latin American flavor, with a uniquely diverse nature indeed. The original influence was of a Portuguese nature. This was actually due to the strong colonial bond with the Portuguese empire, thus this assisted in spreading the Portuguese language throughout the land. Thus, we originally saw a Portuguese flavored culture, legal system, language, and varied Portuguese cultural inheritances taken on board by the inhabitants. European influences such as the South Americans, and African and Asian influences, also heralded the witnessing of an extremely diverse multi ethnic/multi cultural society.

RELIGION:

Most Brazilians are Catholics. In actual fact, here you will find the largest number of Roman Catholics in the world! A small number of ones who follow spiritualism, Buddhism, Hinduism and Judaism will also be found. Slowly but surely Methodism, Pentecostalism and Baptist the Baptist church are becoming a little more noticed.

SPORTS:

Soccer is extremely popular here. The Brazilian national soccer team has been noted as one of the best in the world with a noted tournament record of five major wins (1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002.)

CURRENCY:

In Brazil the currency is now called REAL with the plural being called REAIS .This has only been changed as recently as 1994, due to fluxes and changes, as well as inflation surges. Bills are in 1,2,5,10,20,50,and 100 ,The majority of the bills have animals pictures on one side and the female on the other side which represents the feminine character of Brazil. Coins are in cents such as 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 and 1 real. These vary in color and size.

There are many amazing sights to see, and much fun to be had, while visiting this very picturesque country. Enjoy the sights of beautiful tranquil waterfalls, watch the locals do the Samba, take an amazing jungle cruise.

Have a great time, but remember to play it safe.

"You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf."

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 13:16:00 -0400

“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.”

VisaHQ has been named to Inc.’s list of the fastest...

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 13:01:00 -0400

VisaHQ has been named to Inc.’s list of the fastest growing companies in the United States. Official press release.

Welcome and bare with us

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 11:26:00 -0400

Thank you for visiting. We are in the process of moving all our previous blog entries and creating new great experience for all travelers around the world. It shouldn’t take long, so please bare with us and start following :)