The Federative Republic of Brazil (in Portuguese, República Federativa do Brasil; pron. IPA /ʁe.'pu.bli.kɐ fe.de.ɾa.'tʃi.vɐ du bɾa.'ziw/) is the largest and most populous country in Latin America, and fifth largest in the world. Spanning a vast area between central South America and the Atlantic Ocean, it is the easternmost country of the Americas and it borders Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname and the French department of French Guiana — every South American nation except for Ecuador and Chile. Named after brazilwood, a tree highly valued by early colonists, Brazil is home to both extensive agricultural lands and rain forests. Exploiting vast natural resources and a large labor pool, it is South America's leading economic power and a regional leader. As a former colony of Portugal, Portuguese is its official language.
Brazilian Culture is of a very diverse nature. The religion of most Brazilians is Roman Catholic. In fact, Brazil is the largest country in the world whose predominant religion is Roman Catholicism. Many other beliefs over time have been incorporated into the Brazilian catholic belief system such as Spiritism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Ayahuasca, and Judaism as well as religious syncretisms, such as candomblé, umbanda, and macumba, that mix Catholicism with African tribal religions. Many Catholics do not view Protestants as Christians and the vice-versa is also true. A majority of the population are non-practicing Catholics and would actually be considered agnostics in many circles. Certain denominations of Christianity, such as Pentacostalism, Methodism, the Baptist church, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints have also gained a large following.
Both Brazil and the United States are large countries whose population was formed by multiple immigration sources from many countries, each one bringing its own culture. But although the Americans pride themselves on the diversity of multiple cultures and their generally peaceful coexistence, the Brazilian idea of culture is one of mixed unity, containing many diverse ingredients, but composing one meal, so to speak. While the ideal image of the average American is the idea of a white protestant, living next to an African-American, or a Jew, the typical Brazilian is multi-ethinic.
In Brazil, religions are not mutually exclusive, therefore for every Saint one may light a candle to, there is an equivalent Orixá (a major deity in candomblé that corresponds to a saint or religious figure in Christianity), that many feel they should also name, just to be safe.
Things you should know when travelling to Brazil
Serious crime, often involving violence, is high in a number of urban centres, including Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Brasília, Recife, and Salvador. Robberies involving tourists, some violent, have occurred in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and along the southern coastal beaches, even during the day. Do not venture alone into the "favelas" (shantytowns). Any visit should be in the company of a reputable tour guide only.
Foreigners can become the victims of violence, including sexual assault. Reports of a serial killer in the North Eastern State of Maranhão have been received. Women should take extra caution in this region and avoid solitary travel. Visitors are cautioned to avoid isolated areas, including beaches after dark, and to ensure living accommodation is totally secure. The Canadian government and Canadian Content publishes a booklet, Her Own Way: Advice for the Woman Traveller, specifically targeted at female travellers. Its prime objective is to inform and help Canadian women travel safely.
You should exercise caution when travelling near the tri-border area of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay as criminal activities such as trafficking of illicit goods occur.
Travel in the Amazon border regions and the Pantanal wetlands should be undertaken with trained guides. These areas are largely uninhabited and dangerous.
Street crime, including pickpocketing, mugging, and purse snatching, is common. Tourists are a favourite target. Travellers should be vigilant when visiting outdoor markets. Do not walk alone on beaches or in central areas of major cities after dark. Use well-lit, well-frequented streets. Carry only small amounts of money. Do not show signs of affluence. Valuables and important documents should be stored in a hotel safe; however robberies have occurred from hotel room safes. Carry some form of identification. A photocopy of the identification page of your passport is sufficient.
Express kidnappings and carjackings occur throughout the country, particularly in larger cities. Victims are usually picked up from the street and forced to withdraw funds from bank machines (ATMs). Injuries occur when victims resist. Remain cautious with new acquaintances offering friendship, hospitality, or assistance.
Demonstrations, protests, marches, strikes or civil actions, some violent, may occur at any time in the capital, throughout the country and on main highways. Local transportation services can be disrupted. Roadblocks may occur on main roads at any time and often cause traffic disruptions. You should not attempt to cross blockades, even if they appear unattended. Curfews may be imposed.
Because of the unpredictable nature of these demonstrations and the potential for violence, Canadian citizens resident in or visiting Brazil should exercise caution, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, and monitor local news reports.
Exercise caution when swimming offshore. Strong currents and sharks are present, mainly in Recife. Follow local advice before swimming. Do not bring personal belongings, including travel documents and purses, to the beach.
Report all criminal incidents to the nearest police station. In Brasília and São Paulo, emergency numbers are: police: 190, ambulance: 192, and fire department: 193. São Paulo police can also be reached at (55-11) 282-0160. In Rio de Janeiro, contact the tourist police at (55-21) 3399-7171 or 3399-7170. The tourist police address is Leblon, Rua Humberto de Campos, 315.
