Understanding Brazilians

Brazil isn't growing - so why are Brazilians so happy ?

Brazil, really put itself on the economic map. Having grown by 2.3% a year between 1995 and 2002, it grew by 4% annually in the following eight years. The Brazilian research institute, regularly finds that two-thirds to three-quarters of families say their financial situation improved during the past year, and that they expect it to get even better in the year ahead.
In December, a global pollster, found that those optimistic about the economy outnumbered pessimists by a wider margin in Brazil than in any other large economy. (Source: The Economist)

The underlying reason is that even though the country as a whole is struggling, most families’ incomes are still rising fast. Unemployment is close to record lows and pay rises are comfortably outstripping inflation, partly because of big hikes to the minimum wage, but also because of that tight jobs market.

http://www.economist.com/blogs/economist-explains/2013/05/economist-explains-why-brazilians-happy-slow-growth-brazil

Our observations

But apart from that, we have noticed some characteristics amongst Brazilian society. After spending 1 month in this beautiful country we noticed that:

• One of the most distinctive characteristics of the Brazilian people is their generosity, which they show liberally, even to strangers
• Brazilian people adhere to a much slower pace of life than what those from western nations may be accustomed to. There is basically a 'que sera sera' attitude -whatever will be, will be - and the people take things as they unfold, accepting the 'flow' of life with calm and patience. You can expect to spend a lot of time waiting, so just relax, take a deep breath, and enjoy the scenery of this beautiful country.
• they are very friendly and social. They will engage you in animated conversations and especially enjoy talking about soccer, family, and children.
• Do not worry about punctuality.
• Sunday is a hung-up day. It's a family day - as family is certainly in the center of their culture.
• Brazilians are crazy about lotteries. Otherwise, how can you get rich fast? :) Lottery sale in Pipa:

• When having a conversation with them, you may have an impression that they are impolite. They are just direct. !!! (personally I found it not bad).

•   When Brazilians play music - it must be loud. Either loud or no music. You have the impression that everything goes in samba or bossanova rhythm.

•   They are SO excited about the soccer. Especially that the World Cup is coming soon. They are ready. But what about do the stadiums? Not so sure about it...

• The food is religion. 

• English is a problem. They just don't speak English. However, they are willing to use hands and other objects to be helpful. They understand Spanish which made our conversations a great success.

• If you think you are gonna withdraw some money from ATM - think twice. Your ATM will probably not work. Many times we h ad to come back with nothing after 20km drive to the next bank. Cash is a king - as Basti says.

 Sunset in Salvador