FAQ (Frequently asked questions)
ABOUT THE TRIP
If I live outside Southern African region can I still visit John of God at Casa de Dom Inácio?
Yes, you can, for people living outside our support area you can do as follows: Casa Tours will recommend a travel guide near to your home country. You can join our group from Johannesburg International Airport. (OR Tambo International)
How long is the flight to Abadiânia?
There are no Airports in Abadiânia. We depart from OR Tambo International Airport to Brasilia or Goiania, via São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro. We will then take a private comfortable taxi or minibus to Abadiânia (about 90 minutes drive).
Total flight time is about 12 hours.
Is the flight comfortable?
We fly economy class, and find the flight comfortable; you may at extra cost fly 1st class. Our International transporter is South African Airways to Brazil, and in Brazil we normally fly GOL, TAM or Varig Airlines.
They are all members of IATA, and operate the most modern aircrafts available .
Do I need a Visa to enter Brazil?
Depending on your nationality, please contact us for further information. South African passport holders will be given a 90 day tourist entry visa, with an option to extend for a further 90 days. We will arrange a Visa if you require one to enter Brazil; it is part of our package to your trip.
How much will my trip cost?
Difficult to answer exactly, as we offer different types of trip packages.
If you are travelling in a group, say of 6 to 10 people, it will cost you approximately R19850. (All inclusive) (January 2008) for two weeks, but there again we have to consider various factors that can influence the price, like USD/Rand, Real/USD exchange rates. Airline fares, airport taxes and fuel taxes fluctuations etc. A great part of your trip costs are paid in foreign currency (US Dollars, Euro, and Reais). Please contact us for further information, we will be glad to assist.
Can I arrange my own reservations and buy my own ticket?
Yes you can, but we will not be responsible for any delay, and you will travel as a companion and not form part of the group.
You will still be welcomed and assisted by our travel guides and translators if required, at a reasonable fee.
We also offer unguided tours if you wish to travel alone or with a group of people of your choice. Guided Private Tours are also offered as an alternative.
What do I need to pack for the trip?
A recommended list is enclosed with your trip information; you can request one by e-mail too.
But there is nothing special that is required.
What about foreign exchange for my trip?
Our package includes all basic expenses for your trip; basically you do not need to take any money.
You only need to take money USD or Euros if you intend buying gifts and take part in any event not covered by our package.
The South African Rand in notes are not accepted for currency exchanges in Brazil.
All flights, road transport, accommodation, meals, refreshments (except alcoholic drinks), airport taxes, travel insurance, etc are covered in our travel package.
Please inquire for more details.
Are there banks in Abadiânia?
No banking facilities and no credit card facilities are available. Please plan your cash flow.
There is a Bank in Abadiânia Itau, but only deals with local matters and there is no Foreign Exchange Department in this bank. Your travel guide can assist you in exchanging foreign currency in Brazil in limited amounts.
Are there shops in Abadiânia?
Yes, chemists, fruit juice bars, Internet cafe, supermarkets, souvenir shops, hotel, restaurants, etc.
Are there shops and banks in other towns?
Yes plenty. The closest to Abadiânia are in the city of Anápolis.
You will have to take a private taxi. It is about 45Km and the cost is around R$75. ($40)
How many people are there in a travel group?
Although we also cater for personal (private) trips, the minimum is 6 people and the maximum is 10 per travel guide.
We also have appointed ground assistants in Brazil. Our aim is to make your travel comfortable and hassle free. Your only job is to concentrate on your needs to get better.
I do not speak Portuguese (Brazilian), what now?
John of God only speaks Portuguese (Brazilian), like most people in Brazil.
At the moment we cater for translators for English, Afrikaans, German and Portuguese ( Portugal) speakers.
Your package includes translation services - do not worry we are there for you.
A Travel guide 'should' speak Portuguese (Brazilian) for the pilgrim's best interest?
Not all travelling guides speak Portuguese (Brazilian), but majority are excellent guides to the Casa. Most of these guides have good relationships with volunteers that are translators at the Casa. Do not expect to get personal attention as they are most times extremely busy. One of the main reasons is to have a travel guide to see to your needs full time during your entire trip.
Is Brazil a safe country to travel?
Some parts of Brazil are not safe to travel, especially in large cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.
The places we visit are considered safe, but safe measures are always recommended.
Do not wear expensive jewellery; carry cash or valuables, (same precautions you would take in South Africa)
Can I take a camera or video camera on my trip?
Yes, please do.
On return all members of our travel group will receive by post a CD with photos of the trip with our compliments.
How much baggage am I allowed to take on my trip?
2 suit cases maximum 23kg in total and one cabin bag maximum 5kg.
Any declared excess luggage by the Airlines is for your account.
What about laundry service?
In Abadiânia you are allowed to hand in a maximum of 20 items covered by the trip. Extras will be for your own account.
No same day service is offered. You can do your own washing too .
What clothes do I wear at the Casa de Dom Inácio?
It is a sign of respect to wear white clothes on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday while at the Centre.
No shorts and mini skirts please! Bermuda type shorts are fine .
What clothes do I wear on the trip or in Abadiânia?
Most people wear casual clothes on the trip, anything you like is fine. E.g.: Jeans, shorts, sandals, T- shirts etc.
Please bring along a jacket or sweater in case of a weather change. If you have a small umbrella that fits into your suit case bring it along. It is advisable to bring a light rain coat too.
Can I get any information about the trip before I leave?
Yes you can. We will send as much information as possible before your trip.
We have a film (DVD) made at the Casa de Dom Inácio for sale :-
In Search of a Miracle R159.00 (P&P included for South Africa)
- it will show you what it is like to go to the Healing Center.
(Other countries USD25, P&P included) (November 2007)
OR
Get an E-book for only R65. (130 pages with lots of colour photographs)
( Other countries USD10.)
A percentage of sales are donated to Casa da Alimentação (Charity Feeding House).
Donations will be given on your behalf.
How long is my trip?
14 to 15 days
Is my place guaranteed for the trip?
Once we receive your deposit and all application forms completed, you will receive all information for your trip and your place on the trip is reserved.
Once we receive full payment, we will courier all your travel documents and we will be waiting for you at the airport. We accept cheques, bank transfers and cash .
Can I cancel or postpone my trip once I have booked?
Yes, you may cancel or postpone in writing stating the reason. Deposit on cancellations is not refundable .
Can I cancel or postpone my trip once I have made payment in full?
Yes, you may cancel or postpone in writing stating the reason. Please see the conditions on your Application Form
Please note: if you do not show up at the airport on the day and time of departure, no refund will be made and you will be treated as No show passenger
Can I take my cell phone on my trip?
Yes.
Please get more information from you service provider, regarding costs and network availability. The cheapest way is to have someone to call you at the Pousada ( Inn).
You can also purchase in South Africa, International Phone Cards, available everywhere. No cell phones allowed at the Casa grounds.
Are there phones that I can use to contact my family or friends?
Yes. As a complimentary service we will allow you to use our satellite phone for the total of one hour of talk time during your stay in Abadiania.
What about Internet services in Abadiânia?
Yes. There are Internet cafes. As a complimentary service we will give you a voucher for 120 minutes to be used during your stay in Abadiânia.
Can I take my own computer on the trip?
Yes. The choice is entirely yours, although we do not recommend it - remember you are going on a Healing trip.
Do I have to be religious or Christian to be accepted for this trip?
No. Everybody is welcomed, regardless of race, age, gender, financial status, educational level, religious belief or sexual preferences.
Do you cater for vegetarians?
You have to let us know on your application form, what your dietary requirements are, as the airline requires this information at least 3 days minimum before departure. In the hotels where we normally stay, they cater for your needs without notice.
In Abadiânia 3 meals per day will be served and you will have the choice too.
Is there fresh fruit?
Yes, Brazil is the world largest producer and exporter of tropical fruits.
Is the food Halal or Kosher?
Please state clearly on your application form your dietary requirements. We will endeavor to serve you to the best of our abilities.
The food served at the Pousada meets all known Religious requirements. Only fresh organic ingredients are used and the diet is approved by the Casa.
Is water safe to drink?
Members of our group will only be served bottled water for drinking during the trip.
Is there any threat of disease like malaria?
No. Precautions on yellow fever are advised. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist too.
What about medical emergencies?
We will not allow anybody to travel with us without medical insurance. Medical emergencies will be dealt with professionals in the field.
Will I carry any documentation with me?
Yes. It is your responsibility.
The travel guide will have in his possession copies of your passport, travel documents etc,.
Where do I keep my valuables?
All valuables must be registered with your travel guide, for insurance purposes. E.g.: cameras, watches etc.
Remember, valuables are not recommended on your trip, but can be kept safe by the management of the Pousada ( Inn). Consult your guide on your trip.
Do I have to tip anybody? Hotel, taxi, etc?
No. Unless you really want to. Tips are not expected and not requested
What about making a donation to the Centre?
Remember John of God and the Casa de Dom Inácio do not charge for their services. If you feel, that you must donate something, please do. There is a donation box at the Center. If you require a receipt you must hand your donation at the office of the Casa. Normally donations are tax deductible. The Casa is registered as a non-profit organization. All donations will go to good causes and the help needed to maintain the Centre. Your Travel Guide will also donate on your behalf. You will also have the opportunity to visit the Charity project initiated and supported by John of God and friends from around the World in Abadiania for children in need.
Do I share my room at the hotels?
In principal No. But it is your choice too.
Are you with your group step by step all through the journey?
We are with you throughout the entire trip. We always have somebody on standby 24 hours a day. You are paying us to get the service you deserve.
What is the time difference in Brazil?
- 3 hours GMT and -5 hours from South Africa.
E.g.: 8:00AM in Abadiânia is 1:00 PM in Pretoria
What is a crystal bed?
Crystal Therapy from John of God is a healing modality using an array of specially cut and lighted quartz crystals. It is prescribed by the Entities, the helping spirits of the Casa, for rejuvenation, alignment and as a required preparation for healing work by the Entities.
The individual receiving the session rests face up with eyes closed, bathing in the energy of the crystals. The seven quartz crystals are in a fixed array, positioned over the Chakra centres at a level approximately 12 inches above the body. Light and colour shine through each crystal in an alternating pattern that creates a spiralling amplification of pranic energy from the root chakra crystal to the top crown Chakra. This energy stream produces beneficial stimulation on many physical and energetic levels of being .
Where can I experience a crystal bed in my own country?
Unfortunately we do not know if these treatments are offered in Southern Africa.
Please let us know if you know anybody in our region .
Will John of God actually see me?
Yes he will. It may be brief, but rest assured you will be seen and treated.
What are the Entities?
These entities are beings that have lived on earth previously and come back to earth to help the sick and suffering. They have been doctors and healers in their earthly existence. There are thousands working invisibly at the Casa and there is always
one, who, using John's body, directs the day's proceedings.
Do I have to have a visible surgery?
No you do not. There is the option of volunteering for this, after you have been scheduled for surgery provided you meet the requirements. You must be over 18 and under 52. If you are in a wheelchair, have high blood pressure, or have had chemotherapy, you are not eligible for visible surgery, but most definitely eligible for invisible surgery and distant healing.
Do I need to bring X-rays, or other medical information?
No, John of God will be able to scan you and see what needs to be done.
Can I stop my other medication?
No. Do not stop taking anything that you need and make sure you always bring enough medicine to Brazil with you.
Should I bring a spouse, partner or friend?
You will be treated as a member of our family by our team. With regards to a spouse, life partner or friend, we would always say yes - we just cannot replace their place in your life. There is so much healing done here and on so many levels, that for the loved one to miss out on the experience, may be a waste of the opportunity for the couple as a team to enhance their relationship and experience together. Coming alone and trying to describe it to the one left at home is difficult. Often the partner says there is nothing wrong with them, but there is a surprising amount of things on their list when they pass by the entity! A friend is lovely to bring, however if you come in a group, you will have the luxury of being with the group and will not be alone.
Do I need shots?
There is nothing dangerous in the areas of Brazil that we are visiting. Should you wish to have some protection and do not like regular immunization, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Will I be cured in the two weeks?
The entities heal in forty days and up to three monthly increments. So whatever you have been treated for, you must wait a few months to see the results. Depending on your illness, I would say that 99% of people have improvement from the first trip, sometimes it is dramatic and sometimes it is subtle.
What is a Spiritist?
A Spiritist in this context is a person, who follows the teachings of Allan Kardec, the Frenchman who founded the movement in the 19th century. It has been embraced by a vast majority of Brazilians. There are many Spiritist centers in Brazil. Believing in mediumship, their ability to communicate with the deceased, and having them help us in a variety of ways is widely accepted. John of God is however, the most widely known and successful even by Brazilian standards.
What are the herbs?
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is used in traditional remedies as a calming herb for anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and hysteria. During the early twentieth century, this herb was included in many over-the-counter sedatives and sleeping aids.
In Germany passionflower is available as an over-the-counter sedative (in combination with other calming herbs such as Valerian and lemon balm). It is also used in German homeopathic medicine to treat pain, insomnia, and nervous restlessness. Today, professional herbalists use passionflower (often in combination with other calming herbs) to help treat insomnia, tension and other health problems related to anxiety and nervousness. At the Casa is it a milder dose than found in any health food store. They are however, specifically energized for your specific needs and may not be given to others.
Do you recommend Distant Healing?
People want to know if we can recommend distant healing, crystal baths, taking herbs, trips to the waterfall and even visits to see John of God. This is tricky. Some guides have had important healing experiences in Abadiania and should relate their personal experiences. But, my feeling is that guides are not to recommend anything. A guide has a job, is to deliver people to the Casa of Dom Inacio in a safe, easy manner, support them during their stay and help them understand and follow the directives of the Entities. Guides, should not encourage, convince or, in any other way, seek to persuade people about coming to visit John of God. I believe everyone who seeks information about this pilgrimage is having a conversation with God and guides should do their best not to interrupt. Listen to your heart about distant healing and other decisions around coming to visit John of God and the Entities at the Casa de Dom Inacio in Abadiania, Brazil. You are the only one who can know what you need in order to heal.
Are there contra-indications taking the herbs from other medicines?
There are none.
I am in a wheelchair, am I able to come?
Many people come in wheelchairs. It is entirely wheelchair accessible .
I have special needs and require a carer, what should I do?
Through Heavens Helpers we will be able to provide you with a full time carer and assistant who will be friendly, courteous and helpful at a price much less expensive than in South Africa.
Any advice for healers visiting the Casa?
When an outside medium or healer comes for the first time, it most supportive to be as quiet about your gifts as you can. The Entities will recognize you and may say something to you or they may ignore you (especially if you are in a super ego-based space).
You do not advise a first-timer to go to Abadiânia alone, right?
No, we do not. We feel that it is too much pressure on the Casa and on you specially. Two weeks is extremely a short time to get acquitted with the culture, geographical area, language etc. There are a large number of visitors from other Portuguese speaking countries and they go through difficulties once they arrive on their own. Without a guide you spend much of your precious time wandering what is going on all the time, and that can certainly frustrate you.
Can you send me brochures for the town of Abadiânia, Brazil, the Casa or the Pousada?
Regretably there are no brochures available for neither. We have designed this website to minimize costs on our trips. We will be glad to e-mail you with further information and send you photos etc.
Any other questions?
Kindly contact us
casatours@casatours.net
Questions come from visitors or potential visitors to the Casa de Dom Inacio.
