Brazil has always been prosperous, and its treasures go way beyond the material. Its citizens with their ideals, dreams and way of being. An essential part of the globe is located in South America. The Atlantic Ocean bathes its coast, measuring 7,491 km. It is the 15th longest national coastline in the world. This place has views that look like they were taken from an art book titled “Astonishing Watercolours”. As if that wasn’t enough, people are blessed with an inviting and happy mood, probably due to the amount of vitamin D the sun distributes plenty throughout the year. The lifestyle of a typical Brazilian consists of hard work, community life, and a space reserved for celebrating simply existing. The marvellous gastronomy and festivities are just two of this country’s countless attributes. And suppose you envision new outcomes and results for your professional life. In that case, there are great chances of growth as the economy improves, according to market forecast numbers and specialists from the economic field. This article will try to portray a bit of what it is like to live in Brazil.
First off, what’s it like to live in Brazil? Imagine waking up to the sounds of the ocean (if you’re near the coast) or the bustling streets of a metropolis like São Paulo. Brazil offers diverse lifestyles, from more relaxed beach towns to hurried rhythms of urban centres. The Brazilian spirit is infectious either way. Living in this country means embracing your inner self, even if you don’t consider yourself the spiritual kind. Believe it or not, having frequent contact with nature, something abundant even in the city’s centre, can at least bring the breath of air our buzzing minds sometimes ask for. The appreciation for the small things in life is captivating—the spontaneity of a sudden plan with friends and family shows how last-minute plans can sometimes be rewarding.
The currency is called Real, and its sign is “R$”. Cash or a Visa debit card is preferred for your daily life. Be sure to check if your debit card will work here. Foreigners with a residential permit are strongly advised to open a bank account to use the PIX (An instant way to make payments). The digital payment method became a favourite among Brazilians and revolutionised the market. Also, there are cash machines, usually inside banks, shopping centres, pharmacies and some petrol convenience stores.
Regarding the price, patterns can vary depending on the area and demand of what you’re looking for. Are you considering moving to Brazil and wondering about the cost of living? It’s a mixed bag. While local food and public transport can be affordable, others, like rent and imported goods, can take a chunk out of your wallet. The key to living in Brazil without the cost of an arm and a leg is rummaging the mixed bag for the best alternatives and trying to live like a local. For example, many options range from fancy to more down-to-earth supermarkets. The advantage is that you can find quality in both of them. Prioritise your goals and choose according to your needs. Renting or buying a house can be tricky, with zero knowledge of how the housing market behaves. Avoid being overcharged by fully informing yourself before closing a deal to rent or buy your new home. Make a list of neighbourhoods beforehand and visit the places to check for the level of noise, movement and security in the area. Remember that preparation in this matter will be your best friend, so take a piece of paper and pencil to start the comparison tables and settle the game for a favourable result.
As recent studies and expert opinions illustrate, investment enthusiasts have reasons to be optimistic. Kristalina Georgieva, the International Monetary Fund’s managing director, recently highlighted that Brazil’s economy positively impacts the global economy. Additionally, she mentioned that recent policy reforms are likely to enhance the nation’s economic growth and improve the living conditions of its citizens and newcomers.
Understanding the Brazilian culture is crucial for anyone considering living in Brazil. Brazilians are warm, welcoming, and always ready to help. However, they also appreciate respect and politeness. Be attentive when trying to blend in. The key word is patience. The global fame that Brazilians are friendly is true, but like every other human being, there’s praise for private space. The smart move is to read the room and check if the mood is for socialising.
Public transport or alternatives like taxis and Uber are suggested. Driving on new roads before preparing yourself technically and mentally is not advised, not only because the steering wheel might be placed on the opposite side of your car but also to get accustomed to the laws, rhythms and busy streets.
If you opt for public transport, use buses daily; it’s better to check the view and get familiar with routes and street names to guide you from one place to another. Something that travelling by tube will only sometimes allow you, even with some stations going on surface levels, many of them travel underground.
Learning Portuguese is a game-changer that makes daily life easier and improves the chances of connecting with locals on an extended level. You’ll soon be amazed by the beautiful accents and discover their enthusiastic tone; that’s not an argument.
Adapting to Brazilian food can be an adventure for your taste buds. Brazilian cuisine blends Indigenous, African, and Portuguese flavours, creating unique and sometimes spicy dishes. It’s important to start slowly, introducing new foods gradually to allow your body to adjust. One thing you can be sure of is that embracing Brazilian cuisine is something no one can regret. From street food like pastéis and acarajé to high-end cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss Brazil’s national dish, feijoada. And, of course, there’s the coffee – Brazilian coffee is world-renowned for its rich flavour and quality. Soon, you’ll find your new favourite dish that satisfies your hunger and brings you closer to the Brazilian culture.
The food is exceptional like no other. As a new citizen, trying all sorts of tastes Brazil has to offer is more than encouraging. The only part to be careful about, as in any other place, is street food. As delicious as street food goes, you must try it, but always be aware of the facilities, appearance of the ingredients, and state of food presented to you.
Don’t forget to hydrate! A 1.5L bottle of water is a must for newcomers here. Carry beverages with you. The temperature can be quite high throughout the year in some cities, so it is better to be safe than sorry.
The weather in Brazil can vary drastically from one region to another, affecting everything from your mood to your physical well-being. The tropical heat can initially be overwhelming if you’re moving from a cooler climate. On the other hand, if you relocate to the southern parts of Brazil, the colder winter months might catch you off guard. Adapting to these changes requires time and patience. Listen to your body, stay hydrated, and dress appropriately for the weather. Over time, you’ll find that the diverse climate becomes less of a challenge and more of an aspect of Brazil’s charm to embrace.
The time zone difference is one aspect of moving to Brazil that must be addressed. The time difference can affect mood and communication habits depending on where you’re from. Initially, you might be wide awake when everyone back home is asleep, and vice versa. This can lead to feelings of isolation and homesickness. However, with adjustments and planning, you can establish a new routine that works for you and your loved ones back home. Regular video calls and messages can help bridge the gap, maintaining those essential relationships despite the miles and time zones between you.
When it comes to living in Brazil, safety is a hot topic. Like any country, Brazil has its safe areas and its not-so-safe ones. The key is to stay informed, be aware of your surroundings, and adopt local safety habits. Avoid flashing valuables in the areas you are not familiar with. One way to guide yourself is to coordinate your behaviours according to the people around you and blend in with the locals. Most Brazilians are kind and helpful, but it’s always better to follow your instincts and trust the official directions, like the ones given and maps and proper tutorials to guide newcomers. It’s a plus if you could be introduced to a local to walk you through your new life, at least for the first few months. There are travel agencies where you can find this kind of service.
So, What is it like to live in Brazil? It’s a country of contrasts, incredible beauty, warmth, and a joy for life. However, it has challenges, from navigating bureaucracy to understanding the local culture. If you’re adaptable, open to new experiences, and ready for an adventure, living in Brazil could be a life-changing experience.
Whether you’re drawn to the sandy beaches of Rio, the great culture of Salvador, or the bustling streets of São Paulo, expat life in Brazil is sure to be an adventure. Embrace the chaos, learn to dance in the rain, and who knows – you might find your new home in the heart of South America.
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