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Brazil and the Tourists

Here are some tourism related facts and trivia which might be helpful when you travel to Brazil. The rules and regulations are not very stringent and if you keep the basics in mind, you shall have no trouble, while traveling here.

Health in Brazil


Brazil is a tropical country and mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever, malaria are very prevalent. It is advisable to carry insect repellent and protective clothing while travelling. It is advisable to carry bottled water at all times, as many of the diseases rampantly prevalent here is water borne. In the rural areas, you will not find pasteurized milk. To enjoy tourism in Brazil, the first precaution is to carry medication and keep the phone number of your doctor handy at all times. The hospitals in the big cities are good, but medical costs are high and insurance is recommended. While traveling in the forests, wear protective footwear. Also drink adequate water to avoid dehydration, if you are traveling during the summer months.

Tipping


A large part of Brazil’s economy depends on tourism, and the people here are usually obliging and friendly. Therefore tourism in Brazil is fairly conducive and easy. It is noted as a good gesture to tip the hotel staff. Tip taxi drivers only if they help you with your bags, or else it is not necessary.

Brazil's Official Language


The official language here is Portuguese. But people speak English, Spanish and other local African and Native American dialects as well. Hence language barriers seldom impede the spirit of tourism in Brazil.

Safety First


Brazil is politically stable. There are no terrorist activities prevalent here. In large cities, petty crimes and robbery are rampant. Hence all centers of tourism in Brazil advice foreigners traveling to the country, to take the necessary precautions. Do not attempt to go to slum areas without a guide and make sure you go in a group. The slums are the major places of crime in the country, and it is advisable to be cautious. Muggings, involving firearms, are common and do not wear jeweler or expensive watches while traveling in the city. Tourism in Brazil is relatively safe provided you take the necessary precautions. For instance, avail of the government authorized guides taxis only. Use the hotel safe to store your valuable and do not carry them while you travel.

Brazil Customs


Brazilian culture is largely influenced by Europe and the major cities are very cosmopolitan. This is one of the reasons why tourism in Brazil has flourished to a great extent. The food and wine of the country is lovely and given that you take the precautions regarding hygiene, Brazil is a beautiful place to tour.

Business in Brazil


Tourism in Brazil often doesn’t involve business, but for those who have to work while visiting, here are some tips. Generally business practices vary from place to place in the country. It is quite formal in Sao Paulo, but rather relaxed in Rio de Janeiro. Brazil hosts a number of Multi-national companies and the dealings with them are similar to what it is world over. But if you are interacting with a Brazilian, make sure you pay adequate attention to politeness and hospitality. Brazilians like doing business with people they know and give a great deal of importance to personal interactions. It is customary to entertain business associates to homes, restraints, and parties. The business hours are between 8.30am and 5.30pm, from Monday to Friday.

Communications


The international access code for Brazil is +55. GSM 900and 1800 mobile phone networks mostly cover all the main cities. You can also get phones on rent. Internet cafes are very common. Like a central post office, every town has a central telephone office called a Posto Telefonico. You can make long distance calls from here. Public phone booths are found on nearly every street. For cheaper calls, visitors can connect to an operator at home and place a credit card or collect call. Brazil has a postal system which is slightly expensive but quite reliable.

 
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