Watch out for the hidden costs!

Every penny counts in today’s financial climate, and when it comes to managing your budget in Rio there are some important pointers to bear in mind if you don’t want to face nasty financial surprises.

Firstly, and most importantly, never forget that virtually all bars and restaurants impose a 10 per cent service charge on your bill. You don’t need to tip additionally, but this service charge is not up for debate. Many a foreign visitor to Rio has faced an embarrassing moment at the end of the night when the bill arrives and there is not enough money to cover the charge. Where there is table service, there is a service charge – even in the simplest of bars. Self-service restaurants naturally don’t impose this charge, making them good value for money.

In some establishments, the service charge can be avoided by opting to fetch the drinks yourself at the bar, paying as you go, rather than having them brought over to you and the bill rung up at the end of the night. While this is standard practice in some bars, however, it would look a bit odd in others – watch to see what the locals do and follow their lead.

Another thing to watch out for in Rio bars and restaurants is the `artistic cover’. In many places, where there is live music, a cover charge will be applied. This may be a flat charge (usually between R$5 and R$15) or may be added as a percentage of your bill. If you enter a bar or restaurant and a singer or band are performing, ask if there is a `couvert artistico’. If you are already seated in a bar when the musician arrives, and you don’t feel like paying for music you didn’t choose to listen to, ask for the bill immediately and leave!

In some cases, musicianswill enter a bar or restaurant, perform a number or two and then do the rounds of the venue, collecting donations. You’re not obliged to give anything, but if you have a real or two to spare it’s good form to do so.

Lastly, remember that taxis tend to be more expensive after 10pm and on public holidays. Always ask for the meter to be switched on, and ask for a rough idea of the price to your destination before you get in. Finding yourself without enough money to pay a taxi driver can be a very dicey situation – especially as almost all cashpoints in Rio close at 10pm.

These ‘hidden’ charges might seem a little steep, but they’re common practice in Rio – just don’t be caught unawares!