Q: We're planning a trip to Brazil and haven't seen a travel agent yet. Do we need a visa?

-- E. NOONAN, NEWMARKET

A: According to the Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada website, Canadian citizens intending to visit Brazil need a valid passport and a visa.

I've heard that visa applications might take up to a month, so once you firm up your travel dates be sure to leave yourself plenty of time. Foreign Affairs has a country travel report available online at voyage.gc.ca/countries_pays/report_rapport-eng.asp?id=38000, which lists some of the requirements.

It is also recommended that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country as there have been cases where Canadians were refused entry for not having the six-month validity. The visa must be used within 90 days of issuance or you will be denied entry into Brazil.

The Brazil Consulate General Office (77 Bloor St., W., suite 1109) has a list of requirements on their website, consbrastoronto.org/visa_tourist.php. This check-list includes details on fees, processing requirements, etc. The office is open Mon. through Fri., from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for document receipt and pick-up. The office recommends the best hours for document pick-up are from noon to 1 p.m. Call 416-922-2503.

Q: We will be staying in Padua, Italy. We want to take the train to Venice but don't wish to purchase a Eurail pass. Are there be other trains available?

-- R. DONNELLY, ETOBICOKE

A: Yes there are other options. One is to but a one-way regional train ticket from Padua to Venice, which costs 2.90 euros (about $4.55) and can be purchased at the local train station in Padua either on the day of departure or in advance. The trip takes 30 minutes and there are some stops along the way.

Q: My wife will be accompanying me on an upcoming business trip to Ottawa, I am interested in trying to catch a hockey game during our visit. I don't have time to research and thought you might be able to help.

-- B. LABELLE, MISSISSAUGA

A: Ottawa is a hockey town and initiatives to combine hockey with a visit are sure to score big with travellers.

The "Hockey Night in the Capital" package from Ottawa Tourism lets you catch the Senators facing off against your favourite team. The deal includes one nights accommodation for two adults, tickets to a Sens game and dinner at the Scotiabank Place's Senate Club or The Ledge (depending on availability).

Prices start from $110 per person (based on double occupancy). The cost depends on the game, the seat level and which hotel you choose. Booking a package is easy and can be done online with only a few clicks at ottawatourism.ca or by calling 1-888-OTTAWA-8.

ILONA@MYCOMPASS.CA