Brazil Quick Basic Tips for First-Timers
Brazilian Flag
Welcome to Brazil! Whether it be for eco-tourism, the beaches, or just for business, many people from all over the world have many different reasons for travelling to to this lovely country.
Some quick facts before coming to Brazil:
Brazil is the largest country in South America, both in land area and population. It covers nearly half of the continent.
Its official language of Brazil is Portuguese, making it the only country in South America with Portuguese as its official language.
Brazil is known for its diverse culture, which is a blend of indigenous, European, African, and Asian influences.
The Amazon Rainforest in Brazil is the largest tropical rainforest in the world, covering over 2 million square miles.
Rio de Janeiro is one of the most famous cities in Brazil, known for its beautiful beaches, annual carnival, and iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.
Brazil is a leading producer of commodities such as coffee, sugarcane, soybeans, and orange juice.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Brazil, with the national team having won the FIFA World Cup a record five times.
The country is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including jaguars, monkeys, toucans, and anacondas.
The Brazilian Carnival is a major cultural event held before Lent and is known for its samba music, dance, and elaborate costumes.
The Brazilian economy is one of the largest in the world and is characterized by sectors such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and services.
*These facts would be important to remember before arriving since Brazilians can and are very proud people.
Flamengo, Rio de Janeiro
What can you expect as a first timer?
Expect people to mostly only speak portuguese- and often times the size of the city doesn’t make as much as a difference as does the education level. Cities as touristy as Rio can have very few english speakers and a city like Belo Horizonte may have more.
Brazilians love to be Brazilian and do not expect much variation. Food and music is very Brazilian- do not expect to hear classic rock or eat an elaborate vegan salad as these are not very ‘Brazilian style’. It is true that in bigger cities you will find more food options and different music spots but these options are still very few and far between. Expect to see lots of meat and fries, salads containing only tomato lettuce and onion, coffee - full of sugar, lots of sweets (Brazilians love sweets) and music will be typical samba, funke, sertanejo (Depending on what region listens to what).
Typical Brazlian Food
Brazilians are very friendly people ! Brazilians love to smile at you, say hi, and offer their help when they can. They are very kind, warm and gentle hearted people and love to show new-comers the respective things they love about their wonderful country.
Rio De Janeiro - Carnival
Beware - it can be dangerous. Brazil is no laughing matter- petty crime does happen and it happens more often than anyone would like. In saying so , beware to always take Ubers, avoid walking anytime after dark and do not walk through areas that aren’t in the safe and occupied parts of the city. Do not wear gold chains, expensive watches etc. A “positive” is that unlike other countries, Brazilians aren’t very violent - therefore they can/and might try to rob you (if yo don’t follow the basic guidelines") with a weapon- but they will not be violent, just give them what they ask for and they will leave. REMEMBER, this information is to be fully transparent and is not meant to dissuade you from coming. This is an amazing country, filled with delicious food, culture, and amazing people. Just like in all travels - you must travel smart and respect the country that you are in.
A Brazilian Flavela. * Important to note that some are much safer and OK to visit while others aren’t.
Hope you liked this mini resume .. will continue to provide more information about Brazil, Travel, and all things adventure !
