FAQs

  • We have a group chat for easy communication during the trip. Join here!

  • Drop your photos here! Group photo album

  • Click here to view detailed budget breakdown.

  • Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, but smaller shops and rural areas may prefer cash. It's a good idea to carry some Brazilian reais for small purchases.

  • The local currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL). The exchange rate is about 1.00 USD – 5.8669 BRL. It’s best to withdraw from ATMs or exchange money at official places, as they offer better rates than airports or hotels.

    • Bom dia! (Good morning!)

    • Por favor (Please)

    • Obrigado/Obrigada (Thank you)

    • Onde fica...? (Where is...?)

    • Quanto custa? (How much does it cost?)

    • Desculpa (Sorry)

    • Eu não falo português (I don’t speak Portuguese)

    • Fala inglês? (Do you speak English?)

    • Tudo bem? (How are you?/Is everything okay?)

    Here are the top 3 online resources for learning Portuguese before the trip:

    1. Duolingo
      A free and fun way to learn Portuguese, perfect for beginners. It’s easy to use, with bite-sized lessons that focus on vocabulary, grammar, and everyday phrases.
      Duolingo

    2. PortuguesePod101
      A mix of free and paid content with lessons for all levels. It includes grammar tips, vocabulary, and cultural insights, which are great for travelers.
      PortuguesePod101

    3. Speaking Brazilian YouTube Channel
      Free video lessons that focus on Brazilian Portuguese grammar, pronunciation, and conversation tips.
      Speaking Brazilian

    • Oxe!/Oxente!

      • Used to express surprise, disbelief, or confusion, similar to "What?" or "Wow!"

      • Example: Oxe! Como assim? (What? How come?)

    • Vixe!

      • Equivalent to "Oh my!" or "Whoa!" used to express shock or surprise.

      • Example: Vixe, que calor! (Whoa, it’s hot!)

    • Massa!

      • A cool way of saying something is awesome or great, similar to “cool” or “awesome.”

      • Example: Esse show foi massa! (That concert was awesome!)

    • Arretado!

      • A common word in the Northeast meaning "amazing" or "fantastic."

      • Example: Essa comida tá arretada! (This food is fantastic!)

    • Tá ligado?

      • Means "You know?" or "You get it?" used at the end of sentences for emphasis.

      • Example: Essa festa vai ser incrível, tá ligado? (This party is going to be incredible, you know?)

    • Bora?

      • A quick way of asking “Shall we go?”

      • Example: Bora para a praia? (Shall we go to the beach?)

    • Personal space is smaller: Brazilians tend to stand closer when talking.

    • Hugs and cheek kisses are common greetings between friends.

    • Punctuality: Things may run on “Brazilian time,” so be patient.

    • Food sharing: It’s common to share dishes or drinks, especially with friends.

    • Tipping: A 10% service charge is usually included in restaurant bills, so tipping extra is optional.

  • Yes, but check with your carrier about international roaming plans. You can also get a local SIM card at the airport or in most malls, or rely on Wi-Fi for communication. WhatsApp is widely used in Brazil, and it’s a great way to stay in touch.

  • Many places offer free Wi-Fi, including your Airbnbs, hotels, restaurants, and some public spaces. You can activate your international data roaming plan or purchase a local SIM card with a data plan if you want reliable internet access on the go.

  • Stay hydrated, wear light and breathable clothing, take refreshing showers, and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day. Use sunscreen, a mighty anti-perspirant, and take breaks indoors or in air-conditioned places to cool down!

    • Don’t drink the tap water - please hydrate with filtered and bottled water only.

    • Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas. Avoid showing valuables like phones or jewelry in public.

    • Use Ubers or registered taxis at night instead of walking.

    • Only carry what you need for the day and keep your passport in a safe place.

    • Like any big city, be aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

  • Essentials include light clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget your travel documents (passport, etc.), phone charger, plug adaptor, and any medications. For a packing checklist, click here.

  • Absolutely! We’ve planned a lot of activities for everyone to enjoy, but this trip is all about having fun and making it your own. If you need time to rest, explore on your own, or simply do something different, feel free to opt out. We want everyone to go with the flow at their own pace and enjoy this experience however it feels best for them.