Are you taking a trip to Brazil but don’t know what to expect? Here are some great tips.
1. Familiarize Yourself With Portuguese
For those who are visiting Brazil as part of an extended exploration of South American countries, it is worth noting that the first language of Brazilians is Portuguese, not Spanish as it is elsewhere in South America. Get to know some common Portuguese phrases before entering Brazil. It’ll make your backpacking life easier – and increase your enjoyment of local culture.
At a bare minimum know common greetings and how to say please and thank you. However, other phrases such as how to ask for directions (and understand them) and making inquiries about costs and accommodation will also decrease the challenges associated with visiting a country where English is not spoken by everyone.
2. Make use of a Guide
One of the most common reasons to visit Brazil is to enjoy the incredible biodiversity that is on offer in the country. The flora and fauna are simply spectacular – however if you want to visit the jungle make sure that you have a guide – and that you plan ahead and pack basic supplies.
The Amazon and Pantanal areas are home to some of the most diverse collections of wildlife on the planet. But some of it can pose dangers for the unwary and ill-prepared, including jaguars, an assortment of venomous reptiles and arachnids (including the highly venomous Brazillian Wandering Spider) – and entering the jungle unescorted will only increase the risk of injury.
Explore by all means, but ensure that you have a qualified local guide to help you navigate the hazards. There are many stories of people unfamiliar with the jungle entering it only to never be seen again. Make sure to research your guide to ensure that he (or she) has a reputation for environmental knowledge, ethical practices as regards flora and fauna, and a commitment to keeping clients safe.
3. Don’t Display Your Valuables
South America has a reputation for criminal activity that adversely affects the safety of visitors. It must be said that the following advice is equally applicable to any number of destinations. Don’t overtly display jewelry, watches, and other valuables such as mobile phones and cameras. It simply alerts criminals that you are a viable target.
4. The Importance of a Travel Water Bottle
Brazil can be sweltering at some times of the year and the importance of staying hydrated cannot be overstated. Authorities claim that tap water is safe to drink, however, it can have an unusual taste – possibly due to the purification process.
If this will be a source of worry then invest in a filtered water bottle. The latest models will remove almost all impurities from water. However, if the taste will not be an issue for you still pack a refillable water bottle and commit to sustainability by avoiding single-use plastic water bottles that are available over the counter.
5. Use an ATM Before 10 pm
It’s not only safer to withdraw your money earlier in the day, but Brazilian ATMs limit withdrawals to R$500 after 10 pm.
6. Take Advantage of the Lunch Special
If you are looking to save some money on food then make sure to take advantage of the many ‘Lunch Hour’ specials that are offered by a great many restaurants in Brazil. Not only will this allow you to explore some of the wonderful Brazilian cuisines – but it’ll also allow you to stretch your travel budget.
The portions that you will be served in Brazil are typically extremely large, so take along a travel buddy and share. Keep an eye out for signs that read ‘rodízio’ (all you can eat) outside of Brazilian eateries. The option may prove more expensive than a traditional meal at a restaurant (or the popular lunchtime special), but you can really load on the carbs and proteins for the day ahead. In fact, you’ll be enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner – and be able to indulge your sweet tooth with some excellent desserts as part of the experience.
7. Plan on Spending at Carnival
Take advantage of all the ways you can save money – and use those savings to really enjoy yourself at one of the greatest extravaganzas in the world – The South American Carnival. But be aware that attending is going to put a hefty dent in your budget – so if it’s not on your travel bucket list as a ‘must do’ then perhaps consider leaving it off the itinerary. However, it’s full of beautiful people, including beautiful Brazilian escorts.
But if this immense party is one of those travel priorities, then planning ahead and careful budgeting is required. You are going to be dipping deep into your savings, make sure (for instance) to book your accommodations as far ahead as possible.
