Pousada Picinguaba 

Brazil is known as the country of people who 'celebrate life’. Filled with cultural riches, the scenery is pleasing to the eye and the restaurants will captivate your senses from beginning to end of your holiday.

Brazil is the most visited country in Latin America and Rio de Janeiro is the most popular city for visitors. The cuisine in Brazil is different in every region. Almost all regions have made the best of resources available, making dishes that compliment the people as well as the breathtaking landscape.

In the southern part of the country, sun-dried meats or flame grilled meats and fresh vegetables structure the main portion of the daily diet.

Locals in the north have a diet that generally consists of root vegetables and fish as well as exotic meats including those from alligator meat that is used in certain dishes.

For those looking for meals that are similar to those served at home, Pizza is very popular in Brazil, although some of the toppings including guava jam, banana, and chocolate may seem too exotic for visitors.

Brazilians are among the most musical in the world and the art form is considered a way of life. Brazilian music, rooted in African influence is a collective of celebration, parties, and all that is possible. Popular genres of dance include the samba, the frevo, and lambada go hand in hand with the music.

It is not required for UK passport holders to obtain a visa to enter Brazil. However, you must be able to show proof of a return ticket and sufficient funds if requested. Tourists are allowed to stay for up to 90 days.

It is important to note that tourists are not allowed to work at anytime within the country.

The electric current in Brazil is 220v, 50Hz and it is recommended that you purchase a transformer upon arrival for all your battery charging needs.

Brazil has become an increasingly popular destination for British travellers over the last decade. However, those visiting should consider doing research about the specific areas of which they will be staying prior to travel.

If visiting major cities, take caution when going out after dark.  Dressing down and wearing minimum jewellery is also advisable.

 

The high season for travelling to Brazil lasts between the weeks before Christmas through mid-March for Carnival celebrations so it is advised to book ahead of time if planning your trip during this time. Other busy times include Easter week and the months of July and August when Brazilians take their winter break and when most Europeans and North Americans visit over summer holidays.

The seasons are the exact opposite of the Northern Hemisphere. Summer goes from December through March and then winter begins in June and lasts through September. The summers in Brazil are very hot and the winter months bring lots of light rain.

It is recommended that you visit your local GP at least six weeks prior to departure for a full check up. Optional but suggested vaccinations include those that aid in preventing Yellow Fever, Tetanus, and Hepatitis A.

If travelling to the Amazon or Pantanal, a vaccine for Malaria is also advised.

The average flying time between the UK and Brazil is 9.5 hours, although this varies slightly depending on which airport and area of the country you are leaving and returning to.

Contrary to its neighbouring counterparts, the official language of Brazil is Portuguese. The language is used by businesses, schools, and the media.

English is taught in schools but is considered a difficult language to master and therefore many people are not fluent enough to be considered bilingual.  

We suggest that you visit the following website prior to your travel to Brazil:

www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo 

The currency of Brazil is the Real (often written R$). One real consists of 100 centavos. Standard banknotes are easy to distinguish from each other because they all come in different colours and prominently feature a different animal on their front side.

ATMs are easy to find in big cities, although in the outskirts, rarely work for non-Brazilian cards. It is also a great idea to take along some travellers cheques as you can simply change these at banks or in special exchange offices.

Credit card theft is very common in Brazil so take care when using your PIN number and other identification.

The time difference between the UK and Brazil is GMT -3.

There is a large mixture of races and ethnicities throughout Brazil including Mestizos, Mulattoes, as well as a distinct European population. 

The family is considered to be the foundation of the social structure and forms the basis of stability for most people in Brazil. Families tend to be very large.

Nepotism is considered positive because it implies that employing people one knows and trusts is the primary importance in good business.

The Carnival of Brazil is considered one of the largest celebrations in the world. Usually taking place in late February or early March, it is without a doubt the parade of a lifetime.  Other important public holidays include Easter/ Holy Week and Independence Day, both celebrated in April.