Preparing for Your Trip: Travel Logistics & Essentials ✈️

Author

Kevin DiMatteo
February 28, 2025

Olá Amigos,

With the wedding in Brazil getting closer, we want to make sure your trip is as smooth as possible. In this edition of our newsletter, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get from the U.S. to Curitiba (CWB) and how to navigate your way through Brazil’s airports. However, if we get one more complaint this is written by AI, we’ll navigate you to the jungles of Venezuela instead. Let’s dive in!

1. Flying to Curitiba (CWB) – Your Gateway to the Wedding

First things first: Curitiba is the city where our wedding will take place, and it’s served by Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB). While not as large as São Paulo’s GRU airport, it’s still a busy hub, and getting there from the U.S. will require one or two connections, depending on your departure city. Here’s everything you need to know to find the best flight:

Best Airlines to Fly to Brazil

Flying from the U.S. to Brazil typically involves a stop in either São Paulo (GRU) or Rio de Janeiro (GIG), before heading to Curitiba. These are the best airlines to consider:

  • American Airlines: Offers direct flights to São Paulo (GRU) from major U.S. cities like New York, Miami, and Dallas. From there, you’ll have a short domestic flight to Curitiba.

  • Delta Airlines: Offers routes via Atlanta, flying into São Paulo (GRU). Delta has strong partnerships with Brazilian airlines, making connecting flights to Curitiba seamless.

  • LATAM Airlines: This South American airline has great coverage for U.S.-Brazil flights, with routes from New York, Miami, and Los Angeles into São Paulo (GRU). LATAM also offers direct flights from São Paulo to Curitiba.

  • United Airlines: Another solid option with flights from Newark or Houston to São Paulo (GRU), connecting to Curitiba.

Booking Flights

When looking for flights, we recommend using Google Flights. The Points Guy has an exceptional guide on how to use Google Flights, which we recommend you reading through in order to see all your options flying in/out of Brazil. Check out this article to understand how Google Flights can make your travel booking process easier. The best time to start looking is around April to July 2025. For the best balance of price and availability, try to book by August 2025.

You can start your search by picking the most convenient US-based airport. If you are within driving distance to a major international airport like JFK, EWR, IAD, MIA, or DFW, consider making these your airport of departure to reduce the amount of legs in your flight. For example: our home airport is BWI; typically, flights to Brazil from BWI, have a connecting flight (or two) within the US. Our personal preference is to drive or train to either Washington-Dulles (IAD) or Newark (EWR) to reduce the amount of connecting flights in our itinerary.

Your final destination is the Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB). At the time of publication, there are no direct flights from a US airport into CWB, so expect a built-in connection in São Paulo’s GRU airport. It is the largest airport by passenger volume in the southern hemisphere and operates hundreds of flights a day. See this as the Atlanta airport of Brazil.

“Should I book a flight from the US to São Paulo, and then buy a seperate flight from São Paulo to Curitiba?” While possible, we don’t recommend it. Booking a complete itinerary on one ticket will ensure that airlines compensate you for any delays or missed connections. Additionally, your bag(s) will be checked to its final destination, making the immigration and customs process easier (more on this later).

Travel Dates

Depending on where in the country you are leaving from, traveling to Curitiba takes about 12 to 18 hours. We strongly recommend a long layover in São Paulo’s GRU airport; if possible try to pick a flight itinerary that allocates a 3+ hour layover.

Plan on arriving in Brazil on November 18th, 2025 (11/18/2025). We’re planning a welcome dinner for our traveling guests on November 19th in preparation for the wedding on the 20th. Arriving on the 18th allows you time to get settled in, recover from the travel and get a full night of sleep before the festivities begin.

Want to explore Brazil? Book an earlier flight or stay in the country awhile after the wedding! In a future newsletter, we will tell you some of our favorite places and must-see spots in Brazil, so you can plan a great trip. Regardless of how long you plan on staying in the country, we don’t recommend embarking on an international flight the day after an all-day party. Trust us, we know the party animals that are reading this and you will all need a full day of recovery.

Ready to buy your flight? Do so with a credit card that offers travel/trip insurance plus free lounge access in major airports. Some of our go-to travel cards:

Pro Tip: Book Flights with Points

If you’re looking to save a little money, consider booking your flight using points! According to The Points Guy, you can use your credit card points or frequent flyer miles to book flights to Brazil, often at a better rate than cash tickets. Look into transferring points from your credit cards (like Chase Ultimate Rewards or American Express Membership Rewards) to airline partners like United, American Airlines, or LATAM for a smoother redemption process. You can often find great deals if you book early and use flexible travel dates.

For example, we saw one-way flights from Miami International Airport to São Paulo for 45,000 points in Business Class, with lay-flat seats, on November 2025 via the American Airlines app:

We consider the above a phenomenal deal! Business class seats usually retail for about $3,000 per person, each way. Only avoid using points if your redemption rate is less than $.02 per point. Feel free to reach out to us if you’d like help or more info about award travel like this!

2. Navigating the Airports – GRU & CWB

Now you’ve begun your flight search, or better yet, you’ve booked your tickets! Once you land in Brazil, you’ll likely be coming through São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) before catching your connection to Curitiba. GRU is one of the busiest airports in Latin America, so it’s essential to know how to navigate it.

What to Expect at GRU Airport

  • Immigration: When you arrive at GRU*, the first stop will be immigration. The process can take a little time, especially during peak travel hours, so plan accordingly. Have your passport, visa (if required), and any other documents ready for inspection.

  • Baggage Claim: Once through immigration, head to baggage claim to retrieve your luggage. GRU is well-organized, but there can sometimes be a short wait, especially for international flights.

  • Customs: After retrieving your luggage, follow the signs to clear customs. Make sure to enter the “Nothing to Declare” line and follow the signs to exit. All signage will be written in both Portuguese and English.

  • Domestic Flights to Curitiba: In GRU, you’ll likely need to catch a domestic flight to Curitiba. Once you’ve collected your luggage and cleared customs, you will need to re-check your bag and head to the domestic terminal where you will go through security one more time. The specific terminal you need to go to, depends on your connecting flight; refer to your boarding pass for terminal and gate information. We recommend booking your entire travel journey on one ticket. You’ll likely be flying a partner airline like LATAM and Gol Linhas Aéreas for connecting flights from GRU to CWB. You’ll know if you’re flying a partner airline because your ticket will say “Operated by insert airline”.

When you arrive in Brazil*, head to the immigration counters for foreigners. There, you’ll have to present your passport, immigration form (if provided on your flight), and proof of onward travel. Immigration officials may also ask for a return flight ticket, so have it handy. All immigration officials speak fluent English and will be able to communicate with you; save your newly learned Portuguese for the party!

*Regardless of your port of entry into Brazil, you will need to clear immigration and customs. The steps above specifically mention the São Paulo GRU Airport; however, these steps generally apply to any airport where you first enter the country.

What to Expect at CWB Airport

Congratulations! You’ve made it to your final destination and Manuella’s hometown. After disembarking, follow the black and yellow signs to luggage claim. Take the escalator down to the main floor and retrieve your luggage at your assigned carousel. We recommend calling an Uber to your hotel, since Uber is wildly used in Curitiba and is relatively inexpensive compared to the U.S. However, there are no true ‘XL Ubers’ in Brazil, so consider ordering multiple Ubers for larger groups to accommodate all your luggage.

3. Visa & Passport Information for Americans Traveling to Brazil

Need a Passport? Don’t Wait:

If you don’t have a valid U.S. passport, now’s the time to get one! You will need a valid passport to purchase your plane ticket. Processing times can vary, but standard service currently takes 8-11 weeks, while expedited service (for an additional fee) takes 5-7 weeks. To apply, you’ll need to fill out Form DS-11 (for first-time applicants) or Form DS-82 (for renewals), provide a passport photo, proof of citizenship (like a birth certificate), and pay the applicable fee. If you’re cutting it close, some passport agencies offer urgent in-person appointments, but availability is limited. Check the latest processing times and start your application at travel.state.gov. Getting your passport sorted now means one less thing to worry about, so you can focus on the caipirinhas and celebrations waiting for you in Brazil!

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

Big update for travelers: Starting April 10, 2025, Brazil will require a visa for U.S. citizens. But don’t worry, it’s a quick and easy process. Brazil offers an electronic visa (e-visa), which you can apply for online in just a few minutes. The e-visa is valid for multiple entries over 10 years and costs $80.90 per person. Processing typically takes up to five business days, but we recommend applying a month before your trip to avoid any last-minute stress. You’ll need a passport that’s valid at the time of entry with at least one blank page. To start your application and get the latest details, visit the official Brazilian consular website or check out travel.state.gov.

If visa requirements change, we’ll do our best to notify you all via a special newsletter update.

4. Final Tips Before You Go

  • Flight Tips: The best time to book an international flight depends on your destination, time of year, and flexibility with travel dates. For flights to Brazil during November 2025, here’s what to keep in mind:

    • Book 2-6 months in advance – International fares tend to be lowest between two to six months before departure.

    • Fly midweek for better prices – Flights departing on Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often more affordable than weekend departures.

    • Set price alerts – Use Google Flights, Hopper, or Skyscanner to track fares and book when prices drop.

    • Avoid last-minute booking – While last-minute deals occasionally happen, international flights typically become more expensive within 30 days of departure.

  • Money: Brazil uses Brazilian Real (BRL) but the need for cash is rare. Most retail shops accept Apple Pay and major credit cards. When paying with a credit card, be sure to only pay in the local currency. Your credit card will always have the best conversion rate and it’ll be converted before posting on the monthly statement. Only use credit cards that do not have foreign transaction fees. If you need advice on credit card recommendations, let us know!

  • Language: While many Brazilians speak English in tourist areas, it’s helpful to learn a few basic Portuguese phrases. For example, "Olá" (hello), "Obrigado/a" (thank you), and "Onde fica o banheiro?" (Where’s the bathroom?) can go a long way!

We hope this helps you feel more prepared for your journey to Brazil. In our next newsletter, we’ll be discuss Brazilian culture and local etiquette!

We can’t wait to see you in Brazil!

Warmly,
M&K