Brazil is a country located in South America with name that begins with letter B. Football and rainforest, sugar loaf and mega-cities, samba, carnival and zest for life – Brazil is a melting pot of cultures and an incredibly diverse country. The fifth largest country in the world is with its 200 million residents the most populous state in South America. In an area that Germany would fit 25 times into, the Amazon rainforest is the most biodiverse area on earth: jaguars, quiverals, piranhas, several hundred amphibian and reptile species, more than 50 species of primate, 3,000 freshwater fish species and tens of thousands of different species Flowering plants make Brazil a world power of biodiversity. This natural heritage is preserved in no fewer than 73 national parks. The Amazon lowlands, which still hold surprises in store for biologists, are the green lungs of our planet.
Entry
To enter the country as a tourist with a maximum stay of 90 days, you need a passport that is valid for at least six months.
Climate
Depending on where you are going, you have to expect a humid tropical or subtropical climate. It is hot and humid in the north of Brazil, the conditions in the south of the country and on the Atlantic coast can be more moderate.
Food and drink
The cuisine of Brazil is as colorful as the population. The Portuguese bean and meat stew Feijoada is the national dish. Fish dishes are also very popular in many parts of the country. When it comes to beverages, you are spoiled for choice between many exotic fruit juices and the number 1 national drink, Cafezinho: Brazil is a world leader in terms of coffee cultivation and consumption. The flavored café de olla, which is usually drunk cold, is very refreshing.
Cultural characteristics
The clocks tick differently in Brazil. Punctuality is usually interpreted as a relative quantity. In addition, you shouldn’t make the mistake of trying to bring your Spanish to the Portuguese-speaking country. On the other hand, if you are interested in football and swung to samba, you get goodwill. And yes: Brazilians are considered to be very happy people who like to laugh, are sociable and have the positive in mind.
Medical advice
Doctors, dentists and private clinics are certified to a high hygienic and medical standard; Hospitals, on the other hand, should be avoided – except in the event of accidents – due to the risk of infection. In regions with a hot, humid tropical climate, on the one hand, you should ensure that you have sufficient hydration, on the other hand, in these latitudes you should refrain from drinking tap or well water as well as raw fruit and vegetables. It is best to consult a doctor about which vaccinations help against tropical diseases. A personal first-aid kit is definitely advisable – just as sufficient sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
security
As in most countries where the income gap is wide, one should steer clear of some districts in the metropolises and also avoid displaying jewelry or cash. Just in case: don’t play the hero!
Special provisions
Drug offenses are severely punished in Brazil.
Climate and travel time
There are strong regional climatic differences. Rainforest climate determines the Amazon lowlands. In the mountainous country of Guyana and in the mid-west savannah climate with winter dry season. The coastal region in the northeast has a tropical savanna climate. Around Rio de Janeiro and in the southeast there is a marginal tropical climate, in the south a subtropical climate with partly cold winters.
All about money
Currency
The legal tender is the real (BRL). 1 real is equal to 100 centavos.
Money
The most convenient way to get money is to withdraw it from an ATM. With the usual credit cards (don’t forget your PIN!) It is possible to get cash in larger cities. In most cases, it is also possible to use a debit card (EC card), but a credit card offers more security. Fees are to be expected for each correction, which is why it is advisable to choose a larger amount. In remote regions and on hikes lasting several days, it is not possible to get money, so make sure you have enough cash.
Other essential information
Time difference
Time difference to CET: -4h or -5h
Electrical current
110Volt / 60 Hertz and / or 220 Volt / 60 Hertz. American and European sockets
