Rio de Janeiro Travel Agent Expert

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Rey Alton, Travel Agent in Bellaire, TX

Rey Alton

Bellaire, TX Travel Agent
Super Agent

Rey Alton

Bellaire, TX · 25+ Years of Experience

A full-service Travel Leaders Associate Agency
5.0
(93)
98% Recommended
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... Read More >
About
Reviews
Certificates & Awards
My Places
Client Testimonials

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, South America

Interests:

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

About Me

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.

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
93 reviews
98% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
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Showing 93 reviews

Another fabulous trip!
Reviewed By TC - San Antonio, Texas | Traveled to Punta Cana ~ Dominican Republic ~ Caribbean
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!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
76 of 120 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Travel Expert
Reviewed By Randy - Houston | Traveled to Europe
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.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
72 of 121 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Destination Wedding Planner
Reviewed By Destination Wedding Planner - Elite Eventz - Houston, Texas | Traveled to Jamaica ~ Caribbean
Love working w/ Rey! Very knowledgable and detailed!! Definitely recommend to any and everyone traveling abroad.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
64 of 110 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
July 4th Fun!!!
Reviewed By Lady on the Go - Beaumont, Texas | Traveled to Washington D.C. ~ District of Columbia ~ USA
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!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
64 of 113 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Anniversary Trip
Reviewed By Chris Cooper - Humble, Texas | Traveled to Montego Bay ~ Jamaica ~ Caribbean
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.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
56 of 101 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO

Certifications & Awards

ASTA is the leading global advocate for travel agents, the travel industry and the traveling public.It is the world's largest association of travel professionals.Our members include travel agents and the companies whose products they sell such as tours, cruises, hotels, car rentals, etc.Expand your world. Go with the pros.
The Luxury Leaders Alliance is a unique networking environment for a carefully selected group of luxury advisors that have common experience, skills and mindset. Through collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and educational opportunities, these elite advisors are empowered to provide sophisticated, personalized experiences to luxury travelers.
The Honeymoon & Destination Wedding Leaders Alliance is a network of carefully selected travel advisors who excel in destination wedding and honeymoon travel planning. These elite advisors provide sophisticated, personalized experiences in the most desirable destinations and venues to discerning honeymoon and destination wedding travelers.
Trusted Travel Advisor: A Trusted Travel Advisor credentials, resources and global connections translates to today’s consumer in respectful interactions, confidentiality, knowledge, and client advocacy of travel services provided in parallel with building long lasting client relationships that builds with each interaction.  A Trusted Travel Advisor knows their client better than the client may know themselves and puts those polishing touches on each travel collaboration.

My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.

Client Testimonials

Honeymoon Dubai & Maldives
Thank you so much for helping plan our dream honeymoon! It was the trip of a lifetime, one that we'll never forget, and we owe so much of that to you. Thanks again for all of your meticulous planning and helping to organize everything to be as smooth as possible. We had no hiccups in any of our itineraries, and everything was on time and exactly according to plan. Thank you so much again, and I hope to work together again on another wonderful vacation! Best, Quinn
Quinn C Washington DC
Portugal River Cruise was wonderful
We want to thank you very much for coordinating our Portugal River cruise, everything worked out perfect and we had the best time. We loved every minute.
Louis & Martha G, Houston, Texas
Europe Trip
Rey, Just wanted to say thanks from Elaine & I and let you know trip went great. Everything went without a hitch and we’ll definitely be in touch when we get ready to plan next trip. Lucien
Lucien S, Houston, Texas
The trip to Europe was awesome. All went well.
The trip to Europe was awesome. All went well. I do need to give you feedback about the Eurostar ticket people what the reviews say is completely true. The man comes 15 minutes before you leave. We were there an hour before. But all was great!
Kimberly F
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