Beach: Brazilians only carry a towel, sun tan oil or sun block and a small amount of money to the beach. We suggest you to do the same. Avoid swimming far from the shore and be careful with overexposure to the sun, if your skin is sensitive, you should avoid the beach from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Remember, you are in a tropical country.

Business Hours: Most offices and stores are open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Stores are also open on Saturday from 9am to 1pm while most of the large shopping centers open Monday to Saturday from 10:00am to 10:00pm. Banks are open from Monday through Friday from 10:00am to 4:30pm. 

Climate:Summer runs from December though March with temperatures ranging from 25º C (77º F) to 42º C while winter runs from June though to August when temperatures can drop to around 20º C (68ºF) in the day and cool 16º C (60ºF) at night.

Clothing: Dress Casually. For men slacks and a sports shirts are sufficient; for women, casual attire is fine. Women may appreciate having a shawl or cardigan to hand in the more heavily air conditioned buildings while a light sweater is all the necessary for winter nights

Credit Cards: They are welcome in shopping centers as well as in large stores, restaurants and night clubs.

Communications: The International Direct Dial (IDD) code for Brazil is 55

Electric Current: The electric current in Brazil is 220 volts, except in the states of Sao Paulo; Rio de Janeiro; Pernambuco where it is 110 volts (except the Rio Intercontinental Hotel which, exceptionally, has 220 volts).

Entry Form: Please take extreme care with the copy of the entry form you received when having your passport stamped at the airport. It will take time, work and a lot of hassle to get another one.

Hotel Safes: Hotels offer safety deposit boxes in their rooms, It is recommended that jewelry, air tickets, documents and money are kept in them. Keep only what is necessary for your daily use with you.

Language: The language spoken in Brazil is Portuguese.

Money: The currency in Brazil is the Real (R$). You can change Dollars at exchange shops  or hotels front desk. However other currencies are not wildly available, so you are advised to bring U$ Dollars or travellers checks.

Taxis: Avoid tours or excursions from taxi drivers. You may be disappointed. If you can, Use the special cabs services , which are registered with the tourist board or ask for help at hotel concierge. In general, we suggest you contact your guide or our office for tours and transfers.

Tipping: Restaurants, taxis and hotel tips are 10% - 15% over your bill. Most restaurants include 10% on their bill so it is up to you to leave an extra tip

Water: It is suggested you drink mineral water, soft drinks and beer if you are thirsty. Avoid tap water in Brazil.