Resources for learning Portuguese resources

Duolingo is a nice way to start learning (and if you do it on your computer, there is no “lives” system that you can you do only so many a day).
Some other resources can be found on this website.

Another way is to also download the google translate app on your phone, the reason for that, is that you can take a picture of something written and it will translate it for you.

Foods one should try

The best local dishes will vary by region, but some foods you should make sure to try include:

  • Pão de Queijo (cheesy breads)! This Brazilian delicacy is very versatile. It can be found for breakfast, afternoon snack, with some kind of filling, without any filling! (also, because it is made with yucca flower, it is gluten free!)
  • Coxinnha – Fried dough with chicken filling. These are great mid afternoon snacks and also a favorite at parties.
  • Pastel de Vento – Airy fried dough that has meat or cheese filling. This is also a famous Portuguese dish.
  • Feijoada – Very hearty black bean and meat stew.
  • Brigadeiro – To die for chocolate and condensed milk dessert. You can never eat only one…
  • Farofa – Popular side dish made of toasted cassava flour mixture.
  • Misto Quente – The Brazilian grilled cheese, with added ham slices.
  • Seafood – If visiting a city near water, you MUST try the local seafood. It is so fresh and delicious!
  • New and different fruits – Brazil has many many types of fruit, go out of your way to try something new. If you do not recognize the name, go for it!
  • Churrasco – Brazilian style barbecue seasoned so nicely, you DO NOT eat it with sauce!
  • Maionese – Brazilian potato salad.
  • Salpicão – Brazilian chicken salad with potato sticks.
  • Pavé – Very delicious and poplar dessert that layers moist cookies, sweet filling and fruits. It really is amazing!

What to do in case of emergency

Always acquaint yourself with the region you are going to live and learn what is the nearest hospital. If what you have is not an emergency, you can contact the hospital and request a consultation with a doctor. If it is an emergency, you can either go to the ER located in the hospital, or call an ambulance. If you are going abroad through an Ohio State education abroad program, make sure to read OIA’s information on health and safety.

Emergency numbers:

  • 190 – Police
  • 192 – Ambulance
  • 193 – Fire fighters

Long term living in Brazil

As internationals living in Brazil for a long period of time, there are a few important documents you will need including a CPF and the RNE, You may also want to familiarize yourself with the local U.S. Embassy.