Imagine wandering around the vibrant cities of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, exploring the lush rainforests of the Amazon, and dancing your heart out during a carnival. Brazil is full of inspiring beauty, but you must know how to navigate it. Here are a few guides to follow:
1. Understand the Transportation System
Transportation in Brazil is tricky, so you should research your itinerary to decide the best method to move from one place to another.
- Metro is safe, cheap, and efficient but only covers several areas.
- The bus is the most common option but can be crowded and slow.
- Water taxis and ferries are scenic and fun, but your plan may fall into pieces when the weather goes bad.
- Car rental is most comfortable and flexible, but driving in Brazil is challenging because of poor road conditions and messy traffic.
2. Stay Safe Anytime
Brazil is generally safe, but common precautions are utterly necessary. Keep your belongings deep inside your bag, and don’t let them out of your sight. Bringing cash is necessary in Brazil, but be careful with your wallet because pickpockets are everywhere. Scams are also prevalent, so use your common sense and alertness all the time. If you are unsure about going through certain places in the cities, hire a legit guide to keep you on the safe paths.
3. Spanish is NOT the Official Language – Many People Got This Wrong!
Many tourists come to Brazil with a little Spanish book in their pocket. Little did they know that the official language was Portuguese. Interestingly, Brazilians are very expressive while communicating. Thus, don’t be shy to show your facial expressions and body language when mingling with the locals.
4. Be Cautious With Women-Only Carriages
Some public transport in Brazil has a certain part reserved for women only to ensure their safety. In the metro, the women’s section is one whole carriage. Every woman can use this spot for free but don’t ever step in there if you are a man. There will be a hefty fine, even if you step in there unknowingly.
5. Don’t Explore the Nature on Your Own
Brazil has a pristine and complex nature. While it can be beautifully surprising, it can also possess some dangers. You need a local guide to accompany you on your adventure, even if you are skilled. Local guides understand nature better, so they know what is safe and what is dangerous.
6. It is Not Always Tropical Hot in Brazil
Brazil has very diverse climatic zones. The weather can be far different. For example, winter days in subtropical areas can hit 11°C or even less. Meanwhile, hot summer days in semi-arid climatic zones can reach 36°C and higher. Do your homework by researching the areas you plan to visit, and what season it would be. Dress accordingly and make sure to come prepared.
Bonus Point; MySecondLine Will Make Your Trip Much Easier
Calling your friends in Brazil during your time there would be necessary to avoid missing out on something. However, it will be crazy expensive to use a regular mobile number from your home country.
Your best option is to download MySecondLine and generate a Brazil local number. After verifying it with your ID and proof of local Brazil address (any legal document will do), you’ll get to call anyone in the country with surprisingly low rates. Foreigners with no permanent address in Brazil, like you, can use the address of the accommodation you stay at.