Rio to Sao Paulo

Q: Do you know of safe, comfortable transport between Sao Paolo and Rio (preferably a bus). How much does it cost? How long does it take? Secondly, roughly how long does it take from Rio to Salvador and what forms of transport can one use? - Tlhware Monageng

A: There are plenty of bus services between Sao Paulo's Tiete bus station to central Rio.The journey takes around six hours and the cost ranges from around 30-50 US dollars. The two recommended services are 1001 (Executivo or leito class) or Itapeminm (golden ticket). Except over public holidays, it should be fine to book your ticket at the bus station. You may have language problems, so try to get a local to help you. Both services are safe, but you should remain vigilant and guard your luggage. The least busy buses depart between 10am and midday. Although it appears you have your heart set on travelling by bus, flying is a good alternative, with the 50-minute shuttle flight costing as little as 60 US dollars. Check www.skyscanner.net for discount tickets. The same goes for flights from Rio to Salvador, which can be bought for 50-90 US dollars. This is infinitely preferable to the bus, which costs roughly the same, but takes 22-24 hours of travelling. (7 June 2010)