MONEY

The Brazilian currency is the REAL; 100 centavos = 1 real. Bank bills are in denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2; coins are 1.00 real; 50 centavos, 25 centavos, 10 centavos, 5 centavos and 1 centavo. All banks and exchange offices accept travelers checks and foreign currency. It is advisable to take US Dollar travelers checks or currency as this is more readily exchanged than other currency. There is a currency exchange black market, but you are strongly advised to ignore anyone who approaches you asking if you want to change money. Credit Cards - Access, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and Visa are accepted in the majority of hotels, shops and restaurants. Banking Hours - 10:00-16:00 Monday to Friday (may vary in some banks) ATM machines are also available in the main cities. There is a limited amount to be withdrawn daily. After 10:00PM it is only possible to withdraw up to 100,00 reais. Depending on the bank no withdrawals are allowed after 10:00 PM.