Planning a trip to Brazil? Unsure of how to act around the locals? Afraid of awkward conversations?
Then this is for you!
A nifty list of do's and don'ts for successfully navigating social interaction in Brazil!
Do: Talk about things like the weather, food, and of course- soccer. These topics are always safe and can help you learn more about the culture of Brazil.
Don't: Bring up things like class differences, crime or issues like street children and homelessness. These are sensitive topics to Brazilians and it will likely be taken as you looking down on them. (Cultural information-Brazil, 2009.)
Do: Make eye contact and show that you're listening and engaged in the conversation. Give a response, even if it's something as simple as saying "Oh" or "I see". Staring down at your phone or zoning out during a conversation is not acceptable.
Don't: Be weirded out by how close people may stand next to you. It's totally normal for people in Brazil to stand as close as 1ft apart during a conversation.
Do: Be comfortable with touching. Pats on the arm or back are very common in Brazil.
Don't: Say "America" or "American when referring to the United States. Brazil is part of South America which -shocker- makes them American too!
Do: Expect greetings that may make you a little uncomfortable. Cheek touching or air kisses are common greetings in Brazil, especially among women. (Gayle, 2015.)
Don't: Use the "OK" symbol. While in the United States it is a totally harmless and common gesture, it is very obscene in Brazil! Another harmless act in the United States that's very offensive in Brazil, burping in public! (Selem, 2014.)
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