Droplover
Dutch expat in the USA
Forum posts
134
About me
Dutch
Lives in Pittsboro, North Carolina, Uni
Speaks Dutch, english
Registration: 20 February 2018
Resident card by Droplover
We lived in Brazil for 5 years and my husband and I both got Resident cards. Since we are over 60 now the Validade is listed as indeterminado. My husband and I have permanently moved back to the US since the beginning of 2025. When my husband ...
Thanks all for your replies. We are settling back in to life in the US and it's great being close to family and old time friends again. My husband had an employment visa since he was not 60 yet when we arrived in Brazil. So initially our resident ... Read More
Resident card
We lived in Brazil for 5 years and my husband and I both got Resident cards. Since we are over 60 now the Validade is listed as indeterminado. My husband and I have permanently moved back to the US since the beginning of 2025. When my husband ... Read More
Noisy neighboring pitbulls by mberigan
So for the last 8+ months out neighbor on the other side of the wall (muro) has been raising pitbulls. These guys keep barking day & night and the lady doesn't have a clue as to how to train them (they're spoiled) and believes that I shouldn't ...
Good luck with the barking situation. We left Brazil after 5 years in October, 24. When we moved to Brazil I noticed that there were always dogs barking in the neighborhood and that never changed. There was a dog near us who lived in the yard of ... Read More
Preventive care in Brazil by Cheryl
Hello everyone, As an expat in Brazil, taking care of your health would be one of your main priorities. Preventive healthcare plays a crucial role in keeping fit and healthy. We therefore would like to invite you to share your insights on ...
@roddiesho yikes, I feel for you! I am just getting over a very mild case of shingles. I had not gotten the vaccine in Brazil and was going to do it in the US. The day we landed in the US I got symptoms and a rash and some pain. I truly believe ... Read More
Dogs Die - What Can Be Done? by roddiesho
Simba, my constant companion that accompanied me from MD. to RI. and from RI. to Northeastern Brazil is about 10 years old., adopted from Brazilian Diplomats from Honduras. As much as I would like us to depart together...who knows. What can be done ...
You can have your pet cremated. We did that with our sweet dog who died last year in Campinas. She was cremated the same day as her death. So now I have her ashes with me in North Carolina and I have a Brazilian dog, who we adopted in Brazil last ... Read More
School Student Talk Topics by roddiesho
My wife has about 50 or more students come to our place for an outdoor class and sorvetes each year. We just had two groups of young kids today, but she said to prepare for two groups of high schoolers tomorrow. I barely remember my High School ...
I think high school kids are interested in anything American so they will probably be asking you lots of questions. The ones that have the courage will try to speak some English to you. And yes, as Peter said, teach them about the environment. It ... Read More
Moving with pets to Brazil by csilva1801
Hi I'm cris looking to move to Brazil where my husband is from with 2 large dogs finding it difficult to arrange transport for them would prefer to sail with them from UK but hitting head against brick wall don't know if anyone can offer any help or ...
@KenAquarius Thank you Ken! It is a nerve wracking experience getting all the paperwork correct for the CDC and USDA but thankfully we found a vet in Sao Paulo who is very knowledgeable and works with these guidelines regularly so we are ... Read More
Moving with pets to Brazil by csilva1801
Hi I'm cris looking to move to Brazil where my husband is from with 2 large dogs finding it difficult to arrange transport for them would prefer to sail with them from UK but hitting head against brick wall don't know if anyone can offer any help or ...
@roddiesho Not completely true. I have my ticket to fly back to MIA on OCT. 15 with dog in hold. Her space is reserved and paid for. (LATAM) If you wait and there are too many dogs in cargo you can't fly. Of course you can be denied boarding if ... Read More
Moving with pets to Brazil by csilva1801
Hi I'm cris looking to move to Brazil where my husband is from with 2 large dogs finding it difficult to arrange transport for them would prefer to sail with them from UK but hitting head against brick wall don't know if anyone can offer any help or ...
@csilva1801 How big are your dogs? We flew LATAM from US to Brazil with dog in cargo as excess bagage and I am flying back to the US in October from Brazil with dog in cargo. Cost on Latam is $225. Price is per weight of dog and crate combined. ... Read More
customs and duty moving back to US by Gonzo_hen_hao
My family and I are currently in Amsterdam. We plan to move back to the US next year. Does anyone have experience with customs and duty moving back with items purchased in Netherlands (eBikes, etc). The Netherlands made it super easy to move ...
We moved part of a container back to the US from the Netherlands many years ago. I don't remember any details but we went with a shipping company. They will give you one price that includes getting your items through customs and taxes. Check on ... Read More
International school possibility by Jp123456
Hello,Thanks for all the fantastic contributions to this forum, often so useful to me. We live in the Netherlands since 2018 and my child was born here in 2020. We are now deciding between international and Dutch school.My son attends an ...
We lived in Haren, near Groningen in the North. Integration was easy for us but I was born and raised in the Netherlands so I am fluent in dutch. As you probably know everyone in the Netherlands speaks English well. Read More
USD Travellers Cheque Cashing in Sao Paulo by Nomad Mundo
Hi,On August 28, I would land early in the morning at Sao Paulo's GRU Airport and would be leaving the same night. I would need to get some rest before my next flight and I have a traveler's cheque in USD to cash the same day. I contacted a few ...
@Nomad Mundo why cash a travellers check? It seems overly complicated. You can just pay at the hotel with a credit card. If needed you can exchange dollars to reals at GRU. Very little cash is used in the Sao Paulo area, mostly credit cards, ... Read More
SUS for Dummies by alan279
I need to learn what services SUS offers and how to navigate the bureaucracy. Can anyone point me to a "SUS for Dummies"?Thanks.Alan
@alan279 In the area we live in, Campinas, it's impossible to find a GP. So it's always seeing a specialist. By chance I found an english speaking cardiologist who has been willing to order some tests like mamogram and colonoscopy for me. The ... Read More
SUS for Dummies by alan279
I need to learn what services SUS offers and how to navigate the bureaucracy. Can anyone point me to a "SUS for Dummies"?Thanks.Alan
@alan279 You can also go the the clinic at your local hospital. My husband has done that several times. Even without insurance it is very inexpensive. Read More
Needed Help about Maid Situation Trying to Put me into Problem by John Medros
Hello everyone Please i need help and advice concerning a lady maid working for my family My wife approach a neighbor in 2019 living close to our house to ask we need House maid as we just move in and was just like 1year and half in brazil. So ...
Tricky situation. My husband works fulltime in Brazil. He gets equivalent to 13th month. He gets 1/2 when he takes his yearly vacation and the other 1/2 in December. I've not heard of both. It sounds like you have gone above and beyond and I ... Read More
The Shameful Plight of Dogs in Brazil by James
[img align=l]http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRKAvZVMSYN84_cmx2FEKNmqbYRQ5Agn9STW5kEXXQ-h-RJd8W7iQ[/img] Developing nations seem to be pretty much the same all over the world when it comes to attitudes, treatment and the condition of dogs ...
@annemidgley60 Nothing is black or white. There are many people in Brazil with or without means who treat dogs with great respect. We adopted a dog from a non for profit and it is unbelievable what the volunteers do to help rescued dogs. It ... Read More
Living in Natal? by bcummins
We are considering a retirement move to Natal, can someone give feedback on what it's like to live there. Is it a Safe area, and is there much of expat community there?
I recommend you spend some time there before you decide to move and then decide. I was there once for several days and was not impressed. I had high expectations after hearing Brazilians talk about Natal but was disappointed. Nothing stood out to ... Read More
Tenant Maintenance by alan279
I’ve paid for minor maintenance costs as a tenant for many years. If it’s not much money, I’ll just pay it rather than haggle with the landlady. Now I need new wheels on my sliding glass windows. The landlady referred me to a ...
@jonesio Can you please elaborate on this? "To overly simplify, the inside of a house or apartment must be in the same condition it was in when you rented it when vacated." We will be moving out of a rental house at the end of the year. Our ... Read More
98 lb dog to Brazil??? by sjpetzold
I am trying to move my 98 lb Giant Schnauzer to Brazil and it is becoming a nightmare! He needs such a large crate (700 size with possible extension) that most airlines that still move pets can’t move him due to the size. The only options that ...
@roddiesho It sounds like you had a difficult time getting your dog to Brazil. For us it went very smoothly. Our dog was a 50 lb pitbull mix. We had a military crate so we barely made the 45 kg weight limit (dog plus crate) on Latam. We picked ... Read More
98 lb dog to Brazil??? by sjpetzold
I am trying to move my 98 lb Giant Schnauzer to Brazil and it is becoming a nightmare! He needs such a large crate (700 size with possible extension) that most airlines that still move pets can’t move him due to the size. The only options that ...
We flew our dog to Brazil a few years ago. On Latam from MIA to GRU. Latam has a max. weight of crate and dog being 45 kg so that will not work for you. I think you will have to arrange for your dog to fly cargo. It will be expensive but I don't ... Read More
Question for “Old Fogies from USA living in Brazil. Absence from USA. by bepmoht
When you notified Social Security that you would be outside of the USA for more than 30 days, in which way did you notify them? Was it by phone, in a letter or did you visit an office?Did you notify them while you were still in the US? Or, did you ...
Thanks for that information. My husband is retired from NCSU already in the US. He is working here in Brazil for four years and will then stop completely. We know he will not get full SS but he has an additional retirement account. Read More
Question for “Old Fogies from USA living in Brazil. Absence from USA. by bepmoht
When you notified Social Security that you would be outside of the USA for more than 30 days, in which way did you notify them? Was it by phone, in a letter or did you visit an office?Did you notify them while you were still in the US? Or, did you ...
I'm unclear on all this information. My husband wants to start collecting SS In September, when he turns 65. He will be moving back to the US permanently on Jan. 15th 2025. His SS will be deposited in a US bank account. Does he still have to ... Read More
Brazilian invitation letter by echawahe
I wish to have a legit agency that will help me get a Brazilian invitation letter that will help me apply for a Brazilian tourist visa
I wrote an invitation letter for my sister's longterm partner who is from Sierra Leone a few months ago. They just were here for 3 weeks so he got the visa. I wrote in the letter my name, and address, why I was in living in Brazil, and my ... Read More
Schengen Visa Help??? by HarryWinter
Hi I actually want to visit the Netherlands to go visit a friend of mine who I'm romantically involved. I have all the documents required for the visit to the Netherlands, but unfortunately I don't have proof of employment nor am I a ...
@Raufgul222 James unfortunately died several years ago but if you post on the Brazil site you may be able to get some answers. Read More
School in Groningen by inara ushk
Hi everyone.☀️we will be in Groningen in a few months. We have two children - 7 and 1.7 years old.☺️could you help me choose a school?What schools are there and how much do they cost? we are interested in schools in ...
Yes, St. Maartens college Haren has a international high school. You can look it up online. International School Groningen. Read More
Travel in the Pantanal
Good morning. Do any of you have suggestions on travel in the Pantanal. We are hoping to go in August for 5-6 days. There are a lot of tours but they are quite expensive and with mixed reviews. Has anyone traveled there alone without a guide or ... Read More
i need help about marriage with Brazilian girl by GuestPoster747
Dear sir/ madam my friend she is Brazilen.. She is coming in india this week for doing merry me .. she want i will go with her in Brazil and i also want to go with her... after merry with her i dont to let her go in Brazil alon i just want to go ...
@abthree I agree! You are awesome. Sometimes I feel like writing a snarky remark but then I read your kind and thoughtful answers....... Thanks for all the time you put in to helping all of us on this site. Read More
Bringing my own e-trike from the USA to Brazil by Roger Fonseca Santos
I'm moving from the USA to Brazil. I intend to bring my road bike and my wife's e-trike. The moving company says 'no way', and they won even accept as items eligible to put in their containers. People in other forums such as Quora, say they didn't ...
@Pablo888 Hi! Sorry but I don't know anything about beach bikes (or e-bikes). Read More
Breaking Lease in Brazil by identikal
It would be great if someone who knows the laws regarding apartment rentals in Brazil could give me some advice. I was just let go at my job and I need to give up my place this month and move back to the states. My rent is due on the 5th, but i'm ...
I can't answer your question about the lease. I wanted to tell you that I am so sorry for the situation you are in and hope you are recovering. Also please make sure it is safe for you to fly. It can be dangerous to fly with a brain injury and ... Read More
Bringing my own e-trike from the USA to Brazil by Roger Fonseca Santos
I'm moving from the USA to Brazil. I intend to bring my road bike and my wife's e-trike. The moving company says 'no way', and they won even accept as items eligible to put in their containers. People in other forums such as Quora, say they didn't ...
Hi Kevin, We brought 4 bikes from US and are bringing them back now one by one. My husband brought his Santa Cruz MTB also. Not sure why it was cost prohibitive? On AA and probably other airlines you can bring a bike in a bike bag and count it ... Read More
Dengue Outbreak Vaccination Recommendation by Pablo888
From:https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2024/03/04/1235795657/dengue-brazil-state-of-emergency-vaccineLocal expat experts in Brazil - do you recommend getting the dengue vaccination before going to Brazil?Is it easy to get immunized in ...
@rnbtg, Thanks for the info. I am over 60 so I'm out of luck for now. Read More
Dengue Outbreak Vaccination Recommendation by Pablo888
From:https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2024/03/04/1235795657/dengue-brazil-state-of-emergency-vaccineLocal expat experts in Brazil - do you recommend getting the dengue vaccination before going to Brazil?Is it easy to get immunized in ...
Thanks for starting this thread. With 1 million cases of dengue in 2024 alone I am worried about dengue. In addition in our area, Campinas, there are a lot more mosquitos then I have seen in previous years. I dislike using chemical sprays but I ... Read More
Apple Products by alan279
I need to buy an iPhone, an iPad and a Mac. I’m thinking a quick run to Miami to an Apple Store is what I should do. Will I have any issues with Customs in Brazil on reentry?Thanks for any advice. Alan
Yes, I agree with all above. We have brought many Apple products into Brazil. But always out of package. If it's for personal use it should not be an issue. The only time we got stopped was when we had bikes in bikecases and when we had our dog. ... Read More
How to renew your passport in Brazil by NewBrazil
I have a permanent Resident in Brazil. I don’t plan to go back to the USA anytime soon. In the future I will need to renew my passport. How and where do you do this and the process. Thanks for anyone help
I also renewed while in Brazil last year and it went as stated above by MA22. I was also a bit worried about sending in my passport but all went smoothly. Just make sure you follow all directions, good luck! Read More
Understanding the Dutch Healthcare system by mkqq
Hi all,[b][b][b]A simple question. If you are unwell enough that you feel like you need to see a doctor NOW, who do you call or where can you go? Except for the emergency number.[/b][/b][/b]I just had my first minor experience with the Dutch system ...
The fact that Brazil does not have GP's is definetely not a positive thing. We are living in Brazil for 4 years now and yes I can see specialists although the wait time can be weeks. The problem is that not one MD oversees your care so everything ... Read More
Why Not Wear Flip-Flops in Brazil? by Pablo888
For the fashionistas of the group - why not wear flip flops? I have been "warned" not to wear flip flops on my Rio visit. Why?I do not like wearing flip flops - I prefer clogs - but why is it not fashionable to wear flip flops? There are a great ...
@Peter Itamaraca Thanks for that information. I always wear flip flops driving locally but will not do that anymore....... Read More
Keurig K-cups in Brazil? by EricPau
Hey folks, I brought a nice Keurig coffee machine from USA, and I'm finding it to be a hard time to find k-cup coffee pods in the supermarkets here. It looks like Nespresso has the market here in Brazil. Have any of you seen k-cups for sale here? ...
There are several coffee shops in the Campinas area that are locally owned and where the brazilian coffee beans are roasted on site. We pay R$98 for 1 kg of beans so very affordable and delicious! We grind the beans at home and brew it fresh every ... Read More
Understanding the Dutch Healthcare system by mkqq
Hi all,[b][b][b]A simple question. If you are unwell enough that you feel like you need to see a doctor NOW, who do you call or where can you go? Except for the emergency number.[/b][/b][/b]I just had my first minor experience with the Dutch system ...
I have limited knowledge of how the healthcare system works in general, in the Netherlands anymore. I can say this though. It's a great place to die (and I mean this in the best way). My sister was dx with end stage neuroendocrine cancer in ... Read More
Seeking Advice on Midwives and Home Birth in Florianopolis by inplainview
Hey everyone! I'm Dan from Romania, and my wife Mary hails from the Philippines. We're currently based in Manila, but Brazil is calling our names, and we're seriously considering making Florianopolis our new home. We're thrilled to be expecting our ...
Hi Dan and Mary. First I want to commend you for your adventurous spirit. I'm a bit curious why Brazil seems so appealing to you in your situation. I have been puzzzled by the seemingly popularity of homebirth in Floripa. In Brazil almost 60% of ... Read More
Which airline is better? by Canforbra
Air Canada or United?Talking premium economy or premium plus.
My husband flew United in July and had a terrible experience. Flying from GRU to Newark there was only ONE working toilet for all passengers in economy. The toilets were already not functional starting at departure. I think this is illegal and if ... Read More
Which country is more dangerous - the USA or Brazil? by Peter Itamaraca
Well, according to the new Global Peace Index produced by the Institute for Economica and Peace, in 129th place there is Haiti, 130th South Africa, 131st is the USA and 132nd is Brazil... Mexico is 136th, Turkey 147th, Who would have thought that, ...
@rraypo That is horrifying! Why do you carry the gun and have you ever used it? Read More
Tourist visa update for 10 January 2024 by rraypo
Tourist eVisa's for Australian, Canadian and US citizens.Brazil has officially launched the eVisa portal:https://brazil.vfsevisa.com/This means that, if you are travelling with an Australian, Canadian, or USA passport, and will enter Brazil on or ...
@abthree Thanks for sending the link! Read More
Accommodation and living expenses by ifeanyiohaji22
Please I want to know where I can find cheap and safe areas for modest accommodation in Campinas, not far from IFSP.
@ifeanyiohaji22 Within that budget definitely look into student type housing. Otherwise I think you may end up in an unsafe area. Many students in our neighborhood share houses. Maybe a bit less privacy but a safer option. Read More
Accommodation and living expenses by ifeanyiohaji22
Please I want to know where I can find cheap and safe areas for modest accommodation in Campinas, not far from IFSP.
@ifeanyiohaji22 Yes, if you are a student maybe the university can help you. I don't think it is possible to rent anything for R$1000, or did you mean $1000? Look on Viva Real website or Zap Imoveis to get an idea of prices in the area. Good ... Read More
Accommodation and living expenses by ifeanyiohaji22
Please I want to know where I can find cheap and safe areas for modest accommodation in Campinas, not far from IFSP.
We live in Campinas in a safe area. It is called Cidade Universitaria, Barao Geraldo. Not sure what you consider cheap but there are two Universities here so there are a lots of different options and price ranges. It looks like it is about 22 km ... Read More
Phone almost stolen in Sao Paulo. by Droplover
Just wanted to share this experience with the forum. We were is Sao Paulo this past weekend to see a concert at Allianz Parque. We took a taxi from the hotel and were being dropped off near the venue. When we were about 500 meters away from the ...
@martinsan I agree. In all the trips to Brazil we've made over the years and the the 4 years we have lived here we have never had any issues related to safety before. It was a good lesson for us to add to our precaution list. Read More
Volunteering Opportunities by Pablo888
I have looked at the classified and did a "volunteer" or "volunteering" search and I got 0 results.Although retirement is about doing nothing, I will grow crazy if I keep doing nothing for a while. Are there volunteering opportunities that expats ...
@abthree You are so knowledgeable about Brazil and willing to share what you know which is so helpful and kind to all of us on this Brazil forum. The organization we help at times is indeed a local NGO in Campinas. The amount of stray animals in ... Read More
Volunteering Opportunities by Pablo888
I have looked at the classified and did a "volunteer" or "volunteering" search and I got 0 results.Although retirement is about doing nothing, I will grow crazy if I keep doing nothing for a while. Are there volunteering opportunities that expats ...
@Pablo888 Have you considered teaching english on a volunteer basis? There is a huge demand for this. The average working class Brazilian can not afford lessons. Invest a bit of time and a little money and get TEFL certified, or other ... Read More
Phone almost stolen in Sao Paulo. by Droplover
Just wanted to share this experience with the forum. We were is Sao Paulo this past weekend to see a concert at Allianz Parque. We took a taxi from the hotel and were being dropped off near the venue. When we were about 500 meters away from the ...
Yes, it would have certainly ruined our evening had the phone been stolen. We are pretty careful when walking around with our phones, taking off watches and jewelery but someone sticking their hand into a car is just another level that we never ... Read More
Phone almost stolen in Sao Paulo.
Just wanted to share this experience with the forum. We were is Sao Paulo this past weekend to see a concert at Allianz Parque. We took a taxi from the hotel and were being dropped off near the venue. When we were about 500 meters away from the ... Read More
Pirarcicaba (Sao Paulo) I think I spelt that correctly by ltoby955
Is this a safe area to live?
We have been to Piracicaba a few times also and it seems safe. It feels safer than Campinas to me, possibly because it is smaller. Read More
The Brazilian Grand Prix Sao Paulo by roddiesho
Anyone planning on going?The Brazilian Grand Prix (Portuguese: Grande Prêmio do Brasil) is a Formula One championship race which is currently held at the Autódromo José Carlos Pace in Interlagos neighborhood, Cidade Dutra, ...
@Peter Itamaraca i didn’t want to go there but we are all Hamilton fans. i can’t stand Verstappen eventhough i’m dutch. Read More
The Brazilian Grand Prix Sao Paulo by roddiesho
Anyone planning on going?The Brazilian Grand Prix (Portuguese: Grande Prêmio do Brasil) is a Formula One championship race which is currently held at the Autódromo José Carlos Pace in Interlagos neighborhood, Cidade Dutra, ...
Yes! We are going to the Grand Prix in SP starting on Friday. Our son and his wife are flying in from Amsterdam tomorrow night for the weekend and I am very excited. We went last year also. I'm honestly not a F1 fan but it is very fun to go ... Read More
How affordable is studying at USP (São Paulo) for Brazilians? by Wout
Is it true that studying at the university of São Paulo is only an option for wealthy Brazilians? My wife and I wish to contribute to society by taking motivated students into our home and give them a free room for the time that they are ...
Well, either way your intensions are generous and wonderful. I teach english as a volunteer teacher to motivated students who can not afford to pay for english lessons (which are sadly most of Brazilians). I teach a few university students who go ... Read More
How affordable is studying at USP (São Paulo) for Brazilians? by Wout
Is it true that studying at the university of São Paulo is only an option for wealthy Brazilians? My wife and I wish to contribute to society by taking motivated students into our home and give them a free room for the time that they are ...
In my opinion the system of education in Brazil is rigged against poor people. Public education, elementary and high school, are half day and inferior to private schools. So the more affluent families send their kids to private school. But then ... Read More
Providing CPF when making a purchase by dyantyi28
HiI have been asked a couple of times for CPF when I was making payment for groceries, but it seems to be optional what is the advantages or disadvantages of providing a CPF when making a purchase?Thank you
Yes, I was very excited when I got to skip the line at GRU for security when flying to the Netherlands in May. The agent at check in told me to that because I was over 60. For the "idoso" parking privilege do you have to get some official card? ... Read More
Evolution of banking services in Brazil by Cheryl
Hello everyone, With rapid technological advancements, banking services are digitizing at lightning speed. Expats are thus propelled into a new era of options and payment methods, disrupting the traditional banking services of local ...
When we arrived in Brazil a few years ago we brought cash (dollars) bc that was recommended to us by a Brazilian friend. My husband was going to be paid by a Brazillian company and his salary was going to be deposited in a Banco do Brasil account. ... Read More
English speaking banker at Santander or Itau in Sao Paulo? by rsrenfrew
(in fact I believe it could be anywhere in brazil)I would like to open a checking and aadvantge black card at Santander. My income is sufficient, but trying to do this in PT for me at this point is a nightmare. Thanks so much! This is an awesome ...
In the Itau personalite in Barao Geraldo, Campinas there are two people that speak decent english so I think most banks will at least have someone who speaks some English. I have to say that despite that we have many isseus with Itau and the ... Read More
United States Mail by danielebrian0518
I’m retired military and have been living in Cabo Frio for a month now. Has anybody found a way to receive mail from back in the states over here?
I've given up on receiving mail from the US or Europe after not receiving mail or packages that were sent to me by individuals. When I was in the US a few weeks ago my friends showed me a letter they had sent me here in Brazil and it had actually ... Read More
International school possibility by Jp123456
Hello,Thanks for all the fantastic contributions to this forum, often so useful to me. We live in the Netherlands since 2018 and my child was born here in 2020. We are now deciding between international and Dutch school.My son attends an ...
Good morning! We moved to the Netherlands from the US when our daughters were 2 and 3 years old. They did not speak dutch. We arrived in September and our oldest daughter turned 4 in December. In dutch schools the children start on their 4th ... Read More
Is there anything I need to pay attention if I want buy? by três Wang
Hello, I am a newbie living in Brazil. Because I adopted two cars and one big dog. That reminded me that I may need to live in here for many years. In case to save my parents savings. I started to think about buying a little apartment here. I don't ...
@três Wang I think you meant to say you adopted two cats and a dog? Read More
How realistic is my plan ? by PunchItBaby
Hi there, I’m 42, British. Here’s the “plan”:1: Get TEFL/CELTA qualification depending on which appears to be more suited.2: After much research, pay one of the language schools I’ve found that offer Portuguese classes ...
@PunchItBaby Very smart to do lots of research before making this big step. We are in Brazil for a total of 4-5 years (for my husband's work) . In the US I was a RN and decided to get the TEFL certification before coming to Brazil so I could teach. ... Read More
Don't be fooled by Brazilian Punctuality! by roddiesho
It seems to be common knowledge that Brazilians operate on their own time line and are often late. Well as someone who has been married to a Brazilian for over 23 years and has been part of the Brazilian culture for a long time, I can honestly say ...
Yes, my assessment would be that many Brazilians, particularly people who work on the house are unreliable in regards to appointments made. We also have had people show up hours early (I was in the neighborhood) or hours late with or without ... Read More
Brazil to Require Tourist Visas for Some Visa Waiver Countries by abthree
*ETA* 08/30/23 Per an update on the Consulate General of Brazil website on 08/26/23, the implementation date for this change has been postponed to January 10, 2024.03/24/23 The following notice began to be posted on the websites of Brazilian ...
@abthree You made my day!! My son and his wife have been unable to get a VISA yet for their trip here in November. They live in the Netherlands (with US passports) so thankfully that is now a non issue and we can all go enjoy the Grand Prix ... Read More
Obtaining a Brazil Driver's License (CNH) in Sao Paulo by californiainbrazil
Here is my experience in getting a Brazilian driver’s license (CNH) in Sao Paulo. Hopefully this will be helpful to those getting their CNH for the first timeWebsite with ...
@rraypo What an unpleasant situation. Glad you were able to get it resolved but that would have left a very bad taste in my mouth! Read More
Obtaining a Brazil Driver's License (CNH) in Sao Paulo by californiainbrazil
Here is my experience in getting a Brazilian driver’s license (CNH) in Sao Paulo. Hopefully this will be helpful to those getting their CNH for the first timeWebsite with ...
@abthree Thanks as always for this updated information. I am in and out of Brazil enough and I do carry my passport always with entry stamps so I have been able to avoid getting a Brazilian license. Also we are leaving Brazil next year. My ... Read More
Obtaining a Brazil Driver's License (CNH) in Sao Paulo by californiainbrazil
Here is my experience in getting a Brazilian driver’s license (CNH) in Sao Paulo. Hopefully this will be helpful to those getting their CNH for the first timeWebsite with ...
On the AAA website it states you need an Inter-American Driving permit and that the International driving permit is not valid in Brazil? Read More
Reliable Internet providers in the Netherlands Question by ubiq1er
Hi to all,I will soon have subscribe for an Internet Box Package in Amsterdam (apartment, 3 students).Just the Internet, no TV.100 Mbps would be enough.Just for 12 months.Which providers should I investigate first ? (reasonable price, good support ...
@ubiq1er I was in the Netherlands for a few months (May, June this year) and I got an unlimited data plan with KPN. It was 30 euro per month, with 25 euro to sign up. The biggest problem I had was that you do need a dutch bank ... Read More
Life in the Netherlands by paperclap
Hi all,This is one of my first posts here. Glad to finally be a part of this forum.A little background about myself and partner. I am British, she is Dutch. I have lived in England all my life. She moved here around 10 years ago. I work in the ...
@paperclap To begin with you are in a great place, having to choose between two great countries. I am dutch but have not lived there for many years. My sister sadly died in January of 2023 and her house is going on the market any day now. She ... Read More
Bringing dog from Brazil back to US by Droplover
I am looking for information on bringing a dog from Brazil to the US. The information on the CDC website is unclear to me. It states there is a temporary suspension for dogs entering the US (from Brazil and 112 other high risk rabies countries) ...
@roddiesho The train left the station......... We adopted a dog yesterday here in Campinas. She is a collie mix so she will probably be about 40 lbs when adult. I know this was maybe not the smartest thing but honestly I don't think I could have ... Read More
Bringing dog from Brazil back to US by Droplover
I am looking for information on bringing a dog from Brazil to the US. The information on the CDC website is unclear to me. It states there is a temporary suspension for dogs entering the US (from Brazil and 112 other high risk rabies countries) ...
@BraGringa I actually messaged them initially but all they did was send back the same info as online. I will be in the US in September and I will call them at that time to clarify. Thanks you! Read More
Bringing dog from Brazil back to US by Droplover
I am looking for information on bringing a dog from Brazil to the US. The information on the CDC website is unclear to me. It states there is a temporary suspension for dogs entering the US (from Brazil and 112 other high risk rabies countries) ...
@abthree Thanks as always. The following statement is what I don't understand.has a current, valid US-issued rabies vaccination certificate;Does this mean that if the vet here fills in the US issued vaccination certificate (I can print it from the ... Read More
Providing CPF when making a purchase by dyantyi28
HiI have been asked a couple of times for CPF when I was making payment for groceries, but it seems to be optional what is the advantages or disadvantages of providing a CPF when making a purchase?Thank you
@abthree That is interesting. I never realized you got a discount because of age. I thought it was related to the pharmacy having your health insurance info on file. Our vet here used to sometimes prescribe human medications for our dog and I ... Read More
Almond Butter Anywhere? by ExpatUSATravels
Where in Brasil must I go to get almond butter?Cannot find it in any grocery stores in the State of Rio de Janeiro so far.Checked so far: Zona Sul, Pao de Acu, Regina, Extra, Green Fruit, Hortifruti, and more...
@BraGringa Wow, it's a small world! We live in Barao Geraldo and shop at Fruteria because it is 2 blocks from our house. My husband picks up bread from Armazem Casa Grande every other day. What is with that name?? (hate it)I have/had several ... Read More
School in Groningen by inara ushk
Hi everyone.☀️we will be in Groningen in a few months. We have two children - 7 and 1.7 years old.☺️could you help me choose a school?What schools are there and how much do they cost? we are interested in schools in ...
@inara ushk Good morning, Groningen is a nice city but it is overrun with students which probably won't effect you too much. Have you considered putting your child in a dutch public school? You did not say how long you are moving to Groningen ... Read More
Bringing dog from Brazil back to US
I am looking for information on bringing a dog from Brazil to the US. The information on the CDC website is unclear to me. It states there is a temporary suspension for dogs entering the US (from Brazil and 112 other high risk rabies countries) ... Read More
Gluten free restaurants in Leiden area? by carorueil
Hi there,We're staying in Leiden for a few weeks this summer. As I can't eat gluten, I've been trying to source restaurants where we can meet up with friends/family in Leiden area.. I've searched on Dutch coeliac websites but there's not a lot of ...
Hi, I am Dutch but don't live permanently in NL at this time. I spent almost 3 months in the Netherlands so far this past year (3 separate trips). Our daughter is GF and visited several times. I was in the north of NL so not in the Leiden area. ... Read More
Almond Butter Anywhere? by ExpatUSATravels
Where in Brasil must I go to get almond butter?Cannot find it in any grocery stores in the State of Rio de Janeiro so far.Checked so far: Zona Sul, Pao de Acu, Regina, Extra, Green Fruit, Hortifruti, and more...
I love maple syrup also so I splurge periodically and buy some. Probably there is no demand for maple syrup in Brazil and maple syrup is very time consuming to make. As for a Dutch cheese like Maasdam or Gouda. I am Dutch and love old Dutch ... Read More
Getting visa to come to Brazil with US passport after October 1, 2023
If this question has already been addressed I apologize. My son and daughter in law have US passports and are coming to Brazil in November. They live in the Netherlands at this time. Does anyone know how they can apply for visa before October? ... Read More
Outbreak of Brazilian Spotted Fever in Greater Campinas by abthree
The Brazilian press is reporting an outbreak of Brazilian Spotted Fever (Febre Maculosa) in the Campinas area of São Paulo state. Brazilian Spotted Fever is similar to Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in North America, caused by a related ...
Thank you for sending out this information! We live in Campinas and actually just heard about this yesterday. Read More
Cons of living in Rio by freshbatchoflean
Just did a month in rio and someone asked me what’s the cons of living there I didn’t have any answers besides sometimes ppl get on my nerves trying to sell me stuff on the beach 24/7 when I’m trying to relax besides that I have no ...
Well, I guess I am the odd one out. My husband and I love Rio. My husband was there last year and our last trip together was 3 years ago. We have always stayed in a hotel on Ipanema beach and love the scene. We go sight seeing, out to eat, people ... Read More
RIO TOURIST POLICE by Nomad Mundo
I was robbed for my credit card and I went to this police station at LABLON.. The agent was extremely rude and pathetically mannered man and he won't let me talk. He blamed me that foreigners come to Rio to get robbed. He was using fake English ...
@ Nomad Mundo. You sound very distressed and I am sorry you are going through such a hard time. From your previous message it seems like you are an Indian Citizen. Have you considered going back to India where you hopefully have more support and ... Read More
BRINGING PET TO BRASIL by cindylido
Anyone out there have recent ( in 2023 ) experience bringing dog from U.S.A. to Brasil ?American airlines told me I can no longer check my dog in for the same flight as me except for military personnel.Say I have to go through cargo and broker. My ...
@rraypo Our vet in the USA changed our dog's breed to mixed and the airline staff did not question. Here in Brasil her breed is Pit Bull. Just saying there may be ways to get around the breed restriction. Read More
BRINGING PET TO BRASIL by cindylido
Anyone out there have recent ( in 2023 ) experience bringing dog from U.S.A. to Brasil ?American airlines told me I can no longer check my dog in for the same flight as me except for military personnel.Say I have to go through cargo and broker. My ...
@cindylido Hi Cindy, Did you check with Latam? On their website it states dogs can travel in the hold. There are some restriction regarding weight and size of kennel/ carrier but I see no change since we flew with our dog two years ago. Read More
BRINGING PET TO BRASIL by cindylido
Anyone out there have recent ( in 2023 ) experience bringing dog from U.S.A. to Brasil ?American airlines told me I can no longer check my dog in for the same flight as me except for military personnel.Say I have to go through cargo and broker. My ...
We flew with our dog early 2021. We drove to Miami and then we flew Latam to Sao Paulo. She was in the hold area where they keep the animals. It only cost a few hundred dolars, I think $300. It was nerve wracking but everything went very ... Read More
Places for Reitrees to move in Brazil by sprealestatebroker
Responding to a Ken Aquarius specific request. it's a long and elaborate one,Would you mind if l asked your opinion about buying a home in Brazil? I am also going to retire soon. April of 2023 to be exact. My wife is from Rio and l have been to ...
@devorahmichaela My experience in Brazil is very different. We moved to Campinas 4 years ago when my husband had a sabbatical from NC State. We rented an apartment for a few weeks in Cambui, an upscale expat community. It was nice bu we were used ... Read More
Farewell to Texanbrazil, Brazil Advisor by abthree
It is my deep sorrow to inform you that our colleague and friend here on the site, and my good friend in Real Life, Texanbrazil, passed away this morning after a long illness. Tex joined Expat in February of 2018, and enjoyed helping ...
@abthree Thanks for sending out this message Abtree. Texanbrazil will be missed on this forum. Please offer my condolences to his family. Read More
How do I renew my US passport once I'm living in Brazil? by john8670
My passport expires in 2027. Am I able to renew my US passport from Brazil once I’m living there?
Yes, let's hope for the best and pray no emergencies arise since we can't leave Brazil! Read More
How do I renew my US passport once I'm living in Brazil? by john8670
My passport expires in 2027. Am I able to renew my US passport from Brazil once I’m living there?
I just sent off my US passport to Rio last week for a new one. It can only be done by mail at this time. I'm worried because I don't have a passport at all until the new one arrives which the website says will be 4-5 weeks. My passport does not ... Read More
How can I prepare my puppy for a 30-day trip to Brazil? by Avan Sardar
Hello,I recently acquired a 4-month-old chihuahua puppy and was looking forward to traveling with him. However, I didn't realize how complicated and unclear it can be to get the necessary medical clearance. Has anyone gone through this process and ...
@alevinthal I am happy this will work for you! We have been in Brazil too long and our dog has been vaccinated against rabies twice here so far. Here it is done yearly instead of every 3 years. I wish it was all simpler. We have to stay in ... Read More
How can I prepare my puppy for a 30-day trip to Brazil? by Avan Sardar
Hello,I recently acquired a 4-month-old chihuahua puppy and was looking forward to traveling with him. However, I didn't realize how complicated and unclear it can be to get the necessary medical clearance. Has anyone gone through this process and ...
Maybe I am misunderstanding this post but there is a travel ban in place through July 2023 for dogs entering the US. So I think you can get your dog into Brazil but not back into the US. You can look on the CDC gov website for more info. Getting ... Read More
Safety in Paraty area by dianagrasselli
I have never traveled to Brazil before and I read so much about safety being an issue. How much of an issue is it really for life in the region? Thank you! Diana
We went to Paraty over Christmas break for a few days. It seems safe enough, it's very touristy which I liked for about a day and then had my fill. We walked all over the old town and did not use the car at all. You can't park in the old town and ... Read More
Kids On Bikes by roddiesho
Since coming here in the fall, I have noticed that motorcycles outnumber cars like 20 to 1. A lot of these motorcycles have kids on them. Most are under 10 years old. The kid sits in the middle or on the back by themselves or with groceries. There ...
Here in SP state the drivers are terrible. Drivers are looking at their phones while driving. Motorcycles are everywhere, they speed, and pass cars including when cars are stopped at red lights. Motorcycles ride through red lights here. Drivers ... Read More
Pet Transport by Vera GauchaAmerican
Considering taking my pet to Brasil in about one year from the US.Does anyone shipped the pet from Los Angeles.Does anyone recommend a reputable company.If I take the pet as extra baggage on my flight or have it shipped as cargo,it would cost much ...
@Alstromeria55. I agree with Abthree. You have nothing to worry about. I have flown form US and Europe to Brazil and back many times in the last years, Brazilians love to travel with cats and small dogs in the cabin so I don't foresee you'll have ... Read More
Biting flies in Rio by timhoffnagle
I have visited my girlfriend's family on the outskirts of Rio twice. And both times I got some insect bites on my feet and legs that were the worst that I have ever had. I have visited and lived in many places in the world and have been bitten by ...
Hi Tim, I am quite sure you are having a severe localized reaction to black flies. I have the same problem. I get severe localized swelling after a bite with severe itching. You can use insecticide on your skin and it will likely help a lot. I ... Read More
Merry Christmas! by KenAquarius
My wife and I would like to send our best wishes to everyone. We sincerely hope that things work out for you, and your life in Brazil is what you hoped for. Our turn is coming soon.We are sitting here envious of you all who are enjoying warm ...
Hi Ken, Thank you for the Christmas wishes and I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and all the best for 2023! I would say too, enjoy a cold Christmas while you can! This is our third Christmas in South America and I told my husband ... Read More
13th month for housekeepers? by Droplover
We have one housekeeper, one day a week and another housekeeper who comes one day every two weeks. Is it expected that we give them a 13th month of salary? Last year we gave them money for Christmas (but not a month of salary) but since I read ...
Thanks for sharing that story and the link to the podcast. Unfortunately my Portugese is not good enough to listen to the podcast but it's a fascinating story. Read More
13th month for housekeepers? by Droplover
We have one housekeeper, one day a week and another housekeeper who comes one day every two weeks. Is it expected that we give them a 13th month of salary? Last year we gave them money for Christmas (but not a month of salary) but since I read ...
Thanks for your replies. All the houses in our neighborhood have a maid's room and bathroom which to me is rather disturbing. Our housekeepers, and gardener/pool-guy are not on our payroll they are diaristas. We ended up giving our ... Read More
Sports bar in Recife that shows the Super Bowl 2023.
We planned a family vacation and did not realize it overlaps with the Super Bowl. It so happens one of our children and their American spouse love the Super Bowl. Does anyone know of a fun place to watch the Super Bowl in Recife? Read More
13th month for housekeepers?
We have one housekeeper, one day a week and another housekeeper who comes one day every two weeks. Is it expected that we give them a 13th month of salary? Last year we gave them money for Christmas (but not a month of salary) but since I read ... Read More