Brazil, the largest country in Latin America, encompasses so much culture and opportunity. From Sao Paulo, an alpha global city with a population of 12 million and one of the leading financial centers of the world, to the legendary beaches of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is a country of great promise. It is also home to most of the Amazon rainforest, a hotbed of biodiversity, and home to a staggering array of rare species of animals.
Brazil is also a true melting pot. There are strong European influences on Brazilian culture, as well as the impact of African and Indigenous traditions. Today, Brazil is a common destination for refugees from around the world and immigrants from neighbouring countries, especially Bolivia and Venezuela. Between 2017 and 2020, over 260,000 Venezuelans emigrated to Brazil.
Porto de Galinhas, Pernambuco, Brazil
Portuguese is the dominant language in Brazil, spoken by virtually the entire population (98%). English is actually the second most commonly spoken language (8%) but rare enough that you cannot rely on it. And no, people will not understand you if you try speaking Spanish to them. That is actually one of the great things about living in Brazil, you get the opportunity to learn a completely different language. And because English and Portuguese have common roots, it is a lot easier to pick up than, say, Russian or Mandarin.
Like the rest of Latin America, Catholicism is the dominant religion. Protestantism is also on the rise, with about 22% of the population belonging to that sect of Christianity. Brazilians are overwhelmingly friendly and consider family to be of great importance. Children often live at home with their parents until they are ready to start a family of their own.
There is a great love of music and dance throughout Brazilian culture, and festivals are a frequent occurrence.
Brazil, with its diverse and vibrant culture, has become an increasingly popular choice for expatriates seeking a unique and exciting lifestyle. This South American giant offers a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to anyone looking to live abroad. Let's delve into why Brazil is an appealing destination for expats, considering various aspects such as community, prices, carnival, nature, access, activities, lifestyle, choice, parts, healthcare, landscapes, nomads, workers, spaces, nightlife, fun, sun, party, heat, and the perception of danger in some states.
The country is renowned for its lively nightlife. From samba clubs in Rio to sizzling dance halls in Salvador, the country offers an array of entertainment options to keep night owls entertained.
It's important to note that safety can be a concern in certain parts of Brazil, particularly in some urban areas where crime rates are relatively high. Expats should exercise caution, stay informed, and take appropriate safety measures to mitigate risks.
Brazilian food is delicious. Common staples are meat, rice, and beans. BBQ, known as churrasco, is also an indispensable part of the Brazilian culinary scene. Breakfast isn’t a big meal in Brazil, most people favour coffee and maybe a pastel (a meat pastry) or a biscuit. Perhaps a slice of bread and some cheese or a sandwich.
An interesting feature of some Brazilian restaurants is an all-you-can-eat buffet style where you pay for your food on a per kilo basis (they weigh the plate). That way you get the benefit of selecting whatever you want from a wide variety of dishes, without the moral hazard of feeling like you need to get your money’s worth. If you want an inexpensive meal, you can order a comercial pretty much anywhere, which is rice, beans, meat, and maybe fries or a simple salad. Simple but filling and very affordable.
For those with a sweet tooth, Brazil has plenty to offer. Açaí places are all the rage, offering frozen yogurt-Esque desserts topped with mangos, strawberries, or cupuaçu. And of course, there is the brigadeiro, a delicious sprinkle-covered Brazilian truffle.
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Churrasco BBQ in Brazil
The cost of living is substantially lower in Brazil than in countries like Canada and the USA. This has been driven in part by a steady devaluation of the real. In 2006 the real to USD exchange rate was 2:1 and today it is more than 5:1. In 2020, the real performed the worst among the top 33 traded currencies. For North American expats thinking of moving to Brazil, this is great news.
Brazil is known for its affordability, making it an attractive choice for those looking to stretch their budgets. While prices can vary significantly from city to city, generally, you'll find that living expenses, including housing and dining out, are relatively reasonable compared to many Western countries.
Even life in “expensive” cities like Sao Paulo is quite affordable from a Western point of view, to say nothing about the countryside or smaller cities. Aside from imported goods (and especially expensive electronics like a new computer or the latest smartphone) pretty much everything costs a lot less. Transportation, restaurants, and accommodations are all substantially cheaper, as is anything where labour is a substantial portion of the cost because wages are so much lower.
Salaries are also quite low, so for Brazilians who are earning their living in reals, it can be quite hard to make ends meet. But if you are living off retirement savings, foreign income, or working remotely and earning in dollars, then it can be a lot easier to get by.
Brazilian Currency - Real
Brazil is a huge country, and the average temperature and weather conditions will vary depending on where you are. Sao Paulo is quite moderate, with the temperature hovering in the low 70s year-round. Rio, on the other hand, can reach temperatures of 100 degrees in the summer, which runs from December until February. In general, the northern region is significantly warmer and has more rainfall, whereas southern Brazil has more of a subtropical climate with a decent amount of humidity.
The Brazilian climate is ideal for sun-seekers. With its warm temperatures and abundant sunshine, Brazil provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and a relaxed, sun-soaked lifestyle.
The Brazilian landmass is dominated by large swathes of forest, and there are dense jungles in the north. Brazil has a massive coastline, more than 7000 km (4350 mi) in distance, on which can be found more than 2,000 distinct beaches.
There are a lot of reasons to choose Brazil as an expat destination. From the beautiful natural scenery to the warm and friendly people, to the financial advantages of the weak real, Brazil has it all. Free public health care is a right for everyone legally residing in Brazil, and high-quality private medical hospitals are also available. The food is delicious and the weather is hard to beat. Personal safety can be an issue, as crime is fairly high, but if you stay out of certain areas you can minimize your risk.
Whether you want to spend your days exploring the Amazon, relaxing on one of the many world-class beaches, or simply enjoying the creature comforts of your newfound home, Brazil has something for everyone.
Brazil's world-famous Carnival is an experience of a lifetime. It's a celebration of music, dance, and vibrant costumes that brings people together in a joyous, infectious atmosphere. Being part of this spectacular event is a dream come true for many expats.
Brazil boasts some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes on the planet. From the Amazon Rainforest to the stunning beaches of Rio de Janeiro and the dramatic waterfalls of Iguazu Falls, nature enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to explore and appreciate the country's natural beauty.
The country offers a wide range of activities for people of all interests. Whether you're into water sports, hiking, or exploring historical sites, Brazil provides a wealth of options to keep you engaged and entertained.
Brazil allows expats to choose their lifestyle. You can opt for the bustling urban life of cities like Sao Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, with their vibrant nightlife and cultural scenes, or seek a more laid-back existence in smaller towns and rural areas.
Brazil has made significant improvements in its healthcare system. While the quality of healthcare can vary, especially in remote areas, major cities offer world-class medical facilities, attracting retirees and expats seeking quality healthcare services.
Map of Brazil
In conclusion, Brazil offers a compelling mix of culture, nature, and affordability that makes it a great destination for expats seeking adventure, community, and a unique lifestyle. However, potential expats should research their chosen destination carefully and be mindful of safety concerns in some areas. With the right precautions, Brazil can be an incredibly rewarding place to live and experience the fun, sun, and party atmosphere that the country is famous for.