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Brazil

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL • CLIMATE • DRESS

Brazil can be visited any time of the year. Expect tropical temperatures above 86°F from October to April in Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and the south. The weather between July-September may be too cool for a beach vacation in Rio de Janeiro and further south. The best destinations for a beach vacation during our summer months are the beaches further north between Salvador and Fortaleza. The period May-October is perfect for visiting the Amazon and the Pantanal as the weather is relatively dry and pleasant.
However, expect some rain any time of the year. Make sure you pack a light rain jacket as well as light linen and cotton clothing. Closed running shoes are enough for normal walks or hikes (for example in the rain forest). If visiting the south during the Brazilian winter period (April-September) you will require warm fall or light winter clothing.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS • VACCINATIONS • HEALTH ISSUES

Each traveler is personally responsible for his/her travel documents (passport, visa) and health precautions (such as vaccinations). For more information you can check with the local consulate, a travel clinic or your family doctor. You can also check online for information at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/index.htm, www.who.org or http://www.state.gov/travelandbusiness/

MONEY • ADDITIONAL COSTS • TIPS

Currency: Real. US$1= approx. R$2.14. Exchange rate: October 2006. We recommend bringing US$ in cash, an international card (these are widely accepted) as well as an international bank card. Most bank machines will work with international ATM cards. We do not recommend bringing travelers checks. Do not exchange money with unofficial money changers. To reward the good services of your driver and travel guide we recommend a tip of US$2-3 per day.

FOOD AND DRINK

The Brazilian kitchen offers a great variety of local specialties. Most Brazilians would consider the feijoada their national dish. This hearty stew is made with black beans, beef and pork meat, bacon, garlic and pepper. Traditionally, this dish is prepared for the Saturday lunch. Most travelers are very fond of the churrascarias. Waiters bring around large skewers of grilled beef and pork, chicken and sausages and serve you a cut on your plate. In addition to the meat you can also help yourself to a large buffet of side dishes and appetizers. Brazil’s most typical drink is the Caipirinha, a cocktail made from Cachaça (a sugarcane liquor), limes, ice and sugar.