When to go
Búzios is at its hottest Jan-Mar (humid with tropical showers, occasionally over 40°C during the day). It can be cool and drizzly Jun-Aug and some facilities will be closed but the sun is never far away. Late Dec-Feb and Jul are local holiday times and the resort will be very busy.
Language
Brazilian Portuguese, a more languid and musical version of Portugal’s mother tongue.
Getting local currency
Brazilian Real. Notes can be withdrawn from several ATMs downtown, such as that of Bradesco, using a UK credit or debit card. Limits may be lower than your UK bank allows. ATMs close at 10pm.
Time difference
GMT -3 hours. There is daylight saving from Oct to the end of Feb (approx) when clocks are put forward one hour.
Getting there
It’s a 3 hour drive east of Rio, and you get to cross the superb 12 km Niteroi Bridge.
Key events
Carnival: 5 days in Feb/Mar, variable: 28 Feb – 4 Mar 2014
Rio das Ostras Jazz and Blues Festival: Top class music on a tropical beach north of Búzios, early Jun annually.