The importance of relationships, both physical and emotional, is evident in every aspect of Brazilian life. Brazil has been and remains a traditional patriarchal culture, much like its Latin neighbors. In the upper class, men have...

Get a clearer perspective on Brazilian business culture. The local business culture certainly varies by region and industry sector. Find out more about local companies, their relationships with employees, common benefits, and what kinds...

Brazil's legal system might have its origins in Roman law, but it has unquestionably evolved over time. In fact, several constitutions have been introduced over the years. Learn more about this evolution, the most recent constitution,...

With the exception of a few indigenous groups living in the Amazon, everyone in Brazil speaks Portuguese. Over the years, Brazilian Portuguese has developed its own character as Indian, African, and English words have been added....

Business meetings in Brazil don’t typically follow an established protocol; instead, many business professionals seek to adapt to a foreign businessperson's customs. Nevertheless, it's helpful to be aware of common Brazilian...

While Brazil is the largest economy in South America, the disparity between rich and poor is huge. Poverty, especially urban poverty, is a serious, ongoing problem. Some 17 percent of the population lives below the nationally defined...

Brazilians love life and are quick to break out laughing. They constantly find things to poke fun at or laugh about, such as different parts of the country or other people. Brazilians are generally a nonconfrontational people as well....

Review key tips on managing everyday health issues while in Brazil. For instance, it’s a good idea to frequent restaurants that are clean and busy. Instead of tap water, you’ll probably want to drink and cook with sealed bottled water or...

Learn basic tips on handling emergencies in Brazil. For instance, since reaching people by phone is tough at times, carry backup numbers in case you can’t reach someone. Also carry your Brazilian or international health insurance card...

The country of Brazil is comprised of states and districts. At the national level, Brazil’s government is separated into three branches—executive, legislative, and judicial. The president, who leads the executive branch, is both head of...

With an area of nearly 8.8 million square kilometers, or 3.4 million square miles, Brazil is about the same size as the continental US and the fifth-largest country in the world. It covers nearly half the South American continent, and,...

It’s hard to generalize about the cuisine of Brazil since it’s been influenced by many cultures and varies by region. Generally, Brazilians start the day with a very light breakfast. Lunch is generally the main meal of the day,...

Although some progress has been made in boosting education levels in recent years, there is a popular perception that the entire system needs a major overhaul. The university system, through its exam structure, is seen as benefiting the...

Brazil's economic outlook has varied throughout history, marked by periods of expansion and periods of uncertainty. But you might not realize that each period of growth in Brazil’s economy has been largely characterized by the importance...

Compared to many countries, Brazil actually has fewer rules concerning social etiquette in business settings. But do you really know what’s expected of non-Brazilian professionals in business interactions? Get up to speed on business...

Brazil is the most populous country in South America and second only to the United States in the Western Hemisphere. About 32 percent of the country’s population lives in the thirteen largest metropolitan regions. The largest of Brazil’s...

Births and baptisms are causes for celebration throughout the Catholic world. But unlike people in other cultures, Brazilians celebrate a child’s first birthday with such fanfare that the festivities sometimes rival wedding receptions....

The local currency in Brazil is the reai, called reais in plural. One reai is equal to 100 centavos. Learn more about local nuances for exchanging money in urban centers and rural towns. You’ll want to carry cash with you at all times,...

As with many aspects of Brazilian life, corporate culture varies by region, industry sector, and other factors. Learn more about the corporate culture of Brazilian firms and foreign multinationals, those operating in Sao Paolo, one of...

Holiday Kids_ Mardi Gras V1-0004

The leadership of Nicolás Maduro has brought Venezuela to the verge of revolution as its mismanaged economy collapses.

The U.S. and China will likely be the two most influential countries for the rest of the 21st century. This is how people in 40 countries around the world currently view the two nations across a variety of global issues, according to a...

The Zika virus is spreading through the Americas and is suspected to be causing babies to be born with tiny heads (and less developed brains).

America's ten most (and least) religious states, compared.