What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Brazil?
We asked people in Brazil if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"I did so many silly things here. I constantly say something wrong. Once in the beginning here in Curitiba, I went grocery shopping. I was looking at the meat and couldn't read the package. I wanted beef cubes. I thought the word on the package said mule so I tried to get someone to help me. I wanted beef, not mule. The butcher could not understand my portuguese - I was asking what animal the meat was from. In the end I pointed and said "mooooo" and he laughed and nodded "Sim, mooooo."," remarked another expat who made the move to Curitiba, Brazil.
"In Brazil, it is important to be aware of the cultural norms when interacting with people and engaging in activities. When conversing, it is considered impolite to be too direct or speak in a loud tone. It is important to research and understand the local customs before arriving in the country, especially if you are traveling for business as Brazilian business culture operates differently than other countries. Standing uncomfortably close to people and making physical contact, such as a hug or kiss, is often deemed inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to be aware of and abide by the conservative dress code and customs that apply in both social and professional contexts. Finally, it is important to be aware of Brazil's national holidays and other special observances and be respectful of their importance to the local people," explained one expat living in Brazil.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Brazil?
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- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Brazil?
- What is the average cost of housing in Brazil?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Brazil?
- What should I pack when moving to Brazil?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Brazil?
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Brazil?
If you live in Brazil, newcomers to Brazil would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
