Olá! Or should I say, hello from sunny Brazil! If someone had told me a few years ago that I’d swap my predictable British lifestyle for the spontaneous rhythm of Brazilian life, I’d have laughed it off and gone back to my cuppa.
Yet here I am, a British expat thoroughly enjoying the samba beats, endless beaches, and the warmth – and I mean that literally and figuratively – of Brazilian culture.
Moving here has been one of the best decisions I’ve made, and it’s opened my eyes to a whole new way of living.
Brazil is not just a place; it’s an experience. Here are the incredible benefits I’ve discovered as a Brit in this vibrant, captivating country...
One of the first things you notice here is that Brazilians are exceptionally warm and friendly.
It’s almost impossible to feel like a stranger, even as a newcomer with an accent!
Whether it's the barista at the local café or new people I meet, Brazilians are quick to invite you to a barbecue, a beach day, or simply share a conversation over a Caipirinha.
For a Brit used to the sometimes-reserved approach back home, this openness has been a refreshing change.
People here genuinely want to know about your life, share stories, and invite you to join in their celebrations – and believe me, there’s always a celebration happening somewhere.
Back in the UK, I used to live life according to a rigid schedule – and let’s face it, we Brits love our timetables. Brazil, on the other hand, operates on its own unique rhythm.
Here, the concept of "Brazilian time" exists, where meetings might start a little late, and people take their time with conversations and meals. I’ll admit it took me some time to adjust, but now I relish this relaxed pace.
Here in Brazil, you’re encouraged to pause, breathe, and appreciate the moment.
Brazilians have a way of living in the present. It’s less about checking things off a list and more about enjoying each day as it comes.
I’d always heard about the natural beauty of Brazil, but experiencing it firsthand is another story. From the mighty Amazon rainforest to the iconic beaches of Rio, this country has no shortage of jaw-dropping landscapes.
I’ve spent weekends hiking to waterfalls, exploring tropical forests, and enjoying endless stretches of coastline. The sheer variety here – mountains, beaches, culture – makes it a paradise for anyone who loves the outdoors.
One of my favourite spots is Trancoso in Bahia. Picture this: golden sand, crystal-clear water, and the rolling waves of the Atlantic. But it’s not just about the view; the energy on these beaches is something else. It really is a hidden gem.
I never thought I’d find myself swapping fish and chips for feijoada, but Brazilian cuisine is nothing short of fantastic. Each region has its own speciality, from the traditional black bean and pork stew (feijoada) to fresh seafood dishes along the coast.
Brazilians also love a good barbecue, or "churrasco," which is an experience in itself – juicy, seasoned meats grilled to perfection, often served with the famous farofa, a crunchy cassava flour side dish.
Let’s not forget the fruit. Brazil’s tropical climate means fresh, exotic fruits are available year-round.
Açaí, the purple Amazonian berry, has become a daily staple for me – sometimes as a smoothie, other times with granola and banana. It’s delicious, refreshing, and packed with antioxidants.
While certain parts of Brazil, like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, can be pricey, the cost of living is generally much lower than in the UK. I can go out for a meal without cringing at the bill, and housing is often more affordable, especially in smaller cities.
For an expat, this translates into being able to enjoy a higher quality of life without breaking the bank.
Many daily expenses, from public transportation to groceries, are quite affordable, which leaves room in the budget for enjoying the finer things, like weekend getaways or exploring local attractions.
Every day in Brazil feels like a new adventure. Whether I’m trying to navigate a bustling street market, attending a local festival, or discovering a hidden beach, there’s always something exciting around the corner.
Brazil is a vast country, with each region offering something completely different. From the colonial charm of Salvador to the modern buzz of São Paulo, and the untouched beauty of the Amazon, there’s no end to what you can explore.
Final Thoughts
Life as a British expat in Brazil has been nothing short of amazing. I’ve traded predictable routines for vibrant experiences, and swapped chilly mornings for sun-soaked adventures.
From the food to the festivals, Brazil has shown me a new way to live – one that’s more open, more colourful, and yes, a bit more laid-back than my British self is used to.
If you’re considering a living abroad, working remotely for a few months, a new holiday location, or simply curious about what expat life is like, I say go for it, Brazil has it all.
You might just find, like I did, that Brazil has a way of winning you over – one samba beat, one beach day, and one delicious feijoada at a time.
Life in Brazil isn’t just a destination; it’s a journey. And for this Brit abroad, that journey has been as sweet and refreshing as a cold glass of caipirinha on a sunny beach.
Cheers to the adventure!