Hi all, When I am in the U.S., as I was recently, and people learn that I live in Brazil, the question often arises, “But isn’t Brazil dangerous?” Look, nobody is going to argue that some parts of Brazil aren’t dangerous. The Complexo do Alemao in Rio refuses to be pacified, and Recife is crime-ridden [...]
Hi all, This weekend I went to visit a new online friend (the internet is an amazing medium for bringing people together) in Praia Grande (lit., “Big Beach”, though maybe “Long Beach” would be a better translation), in the state of Sao Paulo. Beaches in Sao Paulo state are generally grouped into the north littoral [...]
Hi all, I just traded messages with Joel Garcia. Joel is an “internet buddy” whom I hope to meet in person in July when he arrives in Rio. Joel is retiring soon. His plan is to come to Rio and teach English as a part-time occupation. He bought my e-book “Teaching English in Brazil” (available [...]
Hi all, Would-be travelers to Brazil are often concerned about their safety. Generally, the concern is about being robbed. While robberies and assaults do occur, I believe that savvy travelers who exercise a bit of common sense have little to worry from thieves. Travelers might better give their time and attention to more prosaic dangers. [...]
Hi all, You may not be aware of this, but Rio de Janeiro contains the largest urban forest in the world: Floresta (Forest) de Tijuca. It rests atop granite morros (hills), and Rio wraps herself around them. Cariocas, as the inhabitants of Rio de Janeiro are called, like to go there when they want some [...]
Hi all, A friend forwarded to me a link to a post on another blog. The post is entitled “50 things to Love about Brazil.” You’ll notice that the first item on the list is “Brazilians.” I second that. Brazilians are overall a wonderful bunch of people. Oh, you encounter the occasional dud, of course, [...]
Hi all, Be it ever so humble, there’s no place like home. I returned home to Paraty last night. Aaah… Traveling the world, you’ll certainly encounter new other languages. I think that, in any language, there are a few essential words which you really must know if you are to survive and function in your host [...]
Hi all, Today is yet another holiday in Brazil. There seem to be a lot of them here, in part because there are not only national holidays, but also state and even city-level holidays. For a listing of holidays in 2013, click here. Today is Dia do Trabalhador, or Day of the Worker, known as [...]
Hi all, On April 23rd, Brazilians who live in the city of Rio de Janeiro observe São Jorge’s Day (Saint George’s Day). Saint George was a soldier during the time of the Roman Empire and is one of the most venerated priests of the Catholic Church. He is also revered by followers of Afro-Brazilian religions [...]
Hi all, Yes, it’s a curious title for a post, I’ll admit. But as I was luxuriating in a truly hot shower here at Mom’s house (while visiting for a couple weeks in the States), it occurred to me that a post about showers might be helpful for some of you who are not yet [...]
Hi, my name is John. I am from the US but left late in 2008 and now make my home in Brazil. Currently I reside in Paraty, a small town (and UNESCO World Heritage site) a few hours outside of Rio.
