Everyday People-Sly and the Family Stone

All things Brazilian

Throughout my time in Brazil I kept a list of things that seemed specifically Brazilian to me.  Wherever I traveled in the country I would notice these same cultural characteristics.  Coincidentally as I was on a layover on my way home, one of the TGC teachers posted a link to this article about 10 things you should know about Brazil.  Here is my list so you can see how it compares:

1. The best way to spend an evening is out on the sidewalk at plastic tables and chairs.

2. The best way to greet someone is by hugging and kissing, and sometimes cheirar.

3. Time is a flexible concept.

4. Food should be eaten with silverware, or held with a napkin.

Proper eating technique

5. Drinks should be very cold.

6. Small plastic cups or straws should be used for any drink in a can or bottle.

7. Donkey carts are a good way to get around.

8. Juices are the drink of choice.

9. A good way to advertise is to put some speakers on the back of a truck and blast it around town.

10. You always need a purse chair for bags.

11. Dinner should not be eaten before 9-10 at night.

12. Dogs can just run free and hang out wherever.

13. You should always carry some toilet paper in case you use a public restroom, but don't flush it down the toilet.

14. Cardboard makes a good sun protector.

15. A good way to buy lunch is by weight at a kilo restaurant.

One of many kilo lunches

16. Singing, dancing and partying are always in order.

17. Manioc and tapioca flour can go on anything.

18. Pizza should be eaten with ketchup and mayonnaise on top.

19. Trash should be picked up from wire baskets on the street.

20. It's better to air condition one room at a time than an entire building.

21. Speed bumps go in every road, even two lane highways.

22. The honor system is a good way to do business.