[Sylvanfan]

I got a seat sale to Brazil and than with what I spent while I was there came to about $3200 for 35 days there and that included being there for Carnival. If I hadn't been there for Carnival I would have shaved off a few dollars...but nothing real significant as the airfare was such a big part of the cost. I didn't think Security was a huge issue in the Southern part of Brazil, but as you move North it certainly becomes more of an issue. I met two Sweedish guys who started out in the North and got robbed twice and refused to leave the hostel after dark. Just be careful of where you are, what time it is, and try not to stand out. In the Southern part of Brazil there is a fair amount of European immigrants and it is easier to blend in if you are caucasion.