mberigan
American expat in Brazil
Forum posts
396
About me
American
Lives in Campina Grande, Paraiba
Speaks Portuguese, English
Registration: 21 January 2020
Having trouble with credit card and debit card working by NewBrazil
Just when yesterday and today to my local supermarket to buy groceries. When I tried to pay with my international credit card it didn’t work. Called my bank they said everything thing should work. In the same store tryed to use my ...
@hagece8690 I'm confused by this observation of CC being more secure than PIX or debit. I know of a numner of times when somebody's dards/phone got ripped off and the thieves make a huge effort at small (under R$100 CC charges before the bank ... Read More
Noisy Brazil? by alexanderstephenlange
The other day, speaking with a native, she said: Brasil é muito barulhento, né?! (She had lived in Germany for a long while... .)In my area, so far, it's really noisy only when something big is happening, like the Copa and other ...
LOL! There are "good" noises and "bad" noises.I kinda like the pamonha guy. We live among corn people; Xerem, canjica, cozido ou assado, munguzá and bolo de fubá!!.... but I agree that the roaming loudspeaker advertising, usually done ... Read More
Assimilation: when is enough enough? by alexanderstephenlange
TL; DR some thoughts on plugging in (or not) to the culture/society. All comments welcome! How important to you is assimilation into Brazilian society? Do you even find yourself contemplating it? Is it self-imposed or something unconscious you don't ...
@alexanderstephenlange Tell the truth alexsanderstephanlange!!! WHO in California is R-E-A-L-L-Y from California?? LOL! ?? 😎But I identify with your feelings. Once I've told the person that I'm "estadunidense" I rectify that by adding that ... Read More
Starlink use in Brazil by Boondog
@abthree Thank you for responding. Yes, I bought a home in Casemiro de Abreu in the state of Rio they should be moving there sometime September October. Do you have any experience with Starlink in rural areas?Thanks again for your input. Regards. ...
@Boondog Hi there! I will do A-N-Y-T-H-I-N-G to NOT use anything by Elon Musk just as I do my best (not always possible) to stay away from funding Bezos. I do my best to support my local community in every way possible.That said - I have a rural ... Read More
Word(s) of the day by alexanderstephenlange
Queijo no queixo faz uma queixa!Please add to this thread, friends.
@alexanderstephenlangeThe champion paraibano of the topic is Jessier Quirino, originally from Campina Grande but lives in Itabaiana.Here's his 11 page list of northeastern (mostly RN, PB & PB) ... Read More
Assimilation: when is enough enough? by alexanderstephenlange
TL; DR some thoughts on plugging in (or not) to the culture/society. All comments welcome! How important to you is assimilation into Brazilian society? Do you even find yourself contemplating it? Is it self-imposed or something unconscious you don't ...
@Pablo888 Brazil has so many different ethnicities and immigrant groups that I find it hard to believe you don't at least look somewhat like a Brazilian. Makes me want to ask you to post a picture. > [snip] [snip] - @alexanderstephenlangeWhich ... Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
@alexanderstephenlangeBem vindo and glad to hear of your return! mberigan Read More
Looking for experiences in Rural areas with HughesNet by mberigan
Hi!I have a home in a rural area unserved by telephone services but that does have Internet. Initially, the area started with radio Internet and that helped people with communication and basic Internet services. Streaming works OK and generally ...
I'm sticking with a radio connection until I figure out a few other things. I'll send you a note. Read More
My Debit card is stuck in Customs by NewBrazil
Has anyone experience with having a debit card or credit card replacement sent from the USA. Right now my replacement debit card they are saying. Your package has been delayed due to a Government Agency hold. It showed it passed thru the scan the ...
@Peter Itamaraca, @NewBrazilHere's an additional trick to add to Peter's.... have the trusted recipient friend send you images (obviously using end-to-end encryption like with Whatsapp - you might not even need images) and add the card to your ... Read More
With fuel prices soaring, how are you getting around in Brazil? by Veedushi
Hello everyone!In many countries, transportation costs are becoming a real challenge for expats. Some are completely changing their habits: using public transport more often, carpooling, switching to scooters… or cycling.In Denmark, for ...
@Kurterino "...I would only use pure gasoline..." There really isn't any pure gasoline here in Brazil. It seems that even the high grade called "aditivado" or "grid" is about 30% anhydrous ethanol and I don't know how well STA-BIL deals with the ... Read More
Looking for experiences in Rural areas with HughesNet
Hi!I have a home in a rural area unserved by telephone services but that does have Internet. Initially, the area started with radio Internet and that helped people with communication and basic Internet services. Streaming works OK and generally ... Read More
Google Fi phone service good in Brazil? by alexanderstephenlange
Hello, ex-patriots!I have heard that Google Fi (a service I use here in the States) works well in Brazil.Anybody have any thoughts on that?I also understand that one should switch away from Google Fi to use a less expensive, native service... ...
@abthree @alex....... Giggle-snort! I sent Alex Mike's Whatsapp in Recife. He's great at phone stuff. mberigan Read More
Sandelwood soap by Kurterino
Asking for a friend who is a big fan of this type of soap (personally i don’t even really know what it is lol…). She usually buys this soap in Asia where it is A LOT cheaper than in Switzerland, now she asked me if it is also available ...
@KurterinoWell, she may not be able to easily find her "sândalo" bar soap via MercadoLivre BUT maybe if you take her to some of the different shops in larger Brazilian cities she might fing other incredibly irresistible scents in different ... Read More
With fuel prices soaring, how are you getting around in Brazil? by Veedushi
Hello everyone!In many countries, transportation costs are becoming a real challenge for expats. Some are completely changing their habits: using public transport more often, carpooling, switching to scooters… or cycling.In Denmark, for ...
@alexanderstephenlangeIn March I took Uber from Intermares Cabedelo to dowtown João Pessoa at 13:30 (rush hour return to work time period) and it was R$34. Also in March a trip from Marca Zero in Recife to the Riomar shopping mall at 16:30 ... Read More
With fuel prices soaring, how are you getting around in Brazil? by Veedushi
Hello everyone!In many countries, transportation costs are becoming a real challenge for expats. Some are completely changing their habits: using public transport more often, carpooling, switching to scooters… or cycling.In Denmark, for ...
@alexanderstephenlangeThere he is!Welcome aboard @alexanderstephenlange!! Read More
With fuel prices soaring, how are you getting around in Brazil? by Veedushi
Hello everyone!In many countries, transportation costs are becoming a real challenge for expats. Some are completely changing their habits: using public transport more often, carpooling, switching to scooters… or cycling.In Denmark, for ...
So I did some lookups to try to compare with prices here - which you can look up in your own community:(California) - 1 liter of regular gas costs R$8.00. Premium is R$8.55.(Wisconsin) - 1 liter of regular gas costs R$5.70. Premium is ... Read More
US to Brasil by tiomark
Belo Horizonte 5 years Retired
tiomark!New to the site? Welcome aboard. Read More
Happy Earth Day 2026
Just to say Happy Earth Day with the hopes that each and every one of us spend a little time passing along the importance of helping out our planet by being good ambassadors of nature to those around us.I'm very encouraged today in watching ... Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
Hi Craig! Apparently you live somewhere in Pará near Belém. Is that true? What an incredible place to live and explore. I live in Paraíba and in the diverse region I live there are things to discover without end. Take advantage ... Read More
Social Security Form SSA-7162 by nicholsharvey
Has social security recipient ever had to mail form SSA-7162 to the FBU.LISBON? How long did it take to Mail from Rio De Janeiro Brazil to Lisbon Portugal via correio service. It's been 10 days since I mailed it with tracking included and it has not ...
Once again an SSA-7162 has arrived via snail-mail to return in short due in order to prove that I still exist (my guess) and I'm wondering what say you others from the U.S.A. about best methods for returning the info. It seems that an email to the ... Read More
Nubank account by FahadQ
Hi, how is everyone?I wanted to ask can I create a Nubank account while I wait for my immigration card? I already have my CPF. I'm trying to do it with the app but it keeps asking me for an ID. Any idea what I can do? please let me know.Thanks!
@FahadQHave you tried using your passport as an ID? You have the CPF. The Nubank pages say that you can use a passport as an ID. If that doesn't work here's their support email address.OR just wait until your resident card is in hand.Good ... Read More
Vehicle tax/registration by Kurterino
I purchased a used scooter in January ‘25 and registered it in my name, at which point I also paid the tax and/or registration fee. I’m guessing that for 2026 I will have to renew the registration and/or pay the tax for the new year, and ...
@KuterinoI noticed that during my last payment process the Android Aplicatico CNH do Brasil only showed changed status of payments AFTER I signed out of the app and then logged back in.mberigan Read More
Looking for suggestions for Skype phone number by CariocaNY
Happy Holidays to all:As most probably know, Skype phone #s are over. That is, the ability to have a U.S. phone number to receive calls and texts is no longer being renewed.Does anyone know of a RELIABLE alternative.I see alternatives on the web but ...
@Peter Itamaraca It would be SO NICE if Whatsapp could be a solution for my needs for communication in the USA BUT nobody in my large family or circle of friends use Whatsapp. My banks don't use it. The IRS doesn't use it nor do my retirement funds ... Read More
Tried to use my girlfriend CPF by NewBrazil
I was at a grocery store as a experiment I put my girlfriend CPF in but the cashier said it didn’t work. Did it twice still didn’t work. When I put my CPF it works. I found it strange it didn’t work. This was just using a regular ...
(translated from a SERASA page)*Benefits for the State*The practice of requesting the CPF (Brazilian taxpayer ID) on the invoice strengthens the fight against tax evasion and promotes greater transparency in the tax system.With the information ... Read More
Tried to use my girlfriend CPF by NewBrazil
I was at a grocery store as a experiment I put my girlfriend CPF in but the cashier said it didn’t work. Did it twice still didn’t work. When I put my CPF it works. I found it strange it didn’t work. This was just using a regular ...
Here in PB purchases over R$500 require addition of one's CPF as of May 2:https://www.sefaz.pb.gov.br/9-posts/4179-compras-acima-de-r-500-no-varejo-terao-de-incluir-cpf-na-nota-fiscal-eletronica-ao-consumidor-na-paraiba#:Often, at the supermarket,we ... Read More
Wise Account Blocked by alan279
My Wise Account is temporarily blocked. Message in the app says I need to provide additional information. I tap the Unblock button and the next screen says they have all the information they need. I tap the Got it! button and get nothing.Is this ...
@KuterinoSo here's the question i searched on:"Quais os bancos onde eu posso abrir conta sem comprovante de residência?"And the response surprised me:"Bancos como InfinitePay, Banrisul (conta digital) e C6 Bank (conta no exterior) permitem ... Read More
Driver's license by Kurterino
Is there anyone here who managed to get a BR driver’s license based on the license from his home country (converted his license to a Brazilian license)? If so, what is the procedure?
@KurterinoI searched for "estrangeiro" on my state's DETRAN site and got a how-to listing. Here's that page (for Paraiba):https://paraibadigital.pb.gov.br/008911a6-e3d1-4fd0-b123-37006dbc34cdYou should be able to find something similar for your ... Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2025 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
@44Intel44That says a lot.... time around Central and South America and coming to roost in Gramado..... I have no numbers (wish I did) but I sense that there is a large movementof people with relationships to Brazil but living elsewhere that are ... Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2025 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
@44Intel44I'm guessing that Gramado was your previous destination in Brazil. Say more about your experiences here in this marvelous Brazil!!mberigan Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2025 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
@DomenicoWelcome to the Brazilian Expat forum. You're sure to find many answers here. I'm sure that you already know that there are many large Italian communities here. Bixiga, Mooca & Brás are all neighborhoods of São Paulo with ... Read More
Has anyone thought about Brazil as a medical destination by NewBrazil
I been working with a local lawyer. We been discussing how cheap Dental, Eye Glass and exams, Hearing Aids cost and just general care. Also certain cities are very supportive of outdoor activities for those who like to run or bike. For example there ...
@Itoby955Sorry, I was comparing Brazil to USA. Comparing Brazil to Portugal concerning this particular health situation, well I'm not the right person to provide that perspective. Many Brazilians rely entirely on public health and many find it ... Read More
Has anyone thought about Brazil as a medical destination by NewBrazil
I been working with a local lawyer. We been discussing how cheap Dental, Eye Glass and exams, Hearing Aids cost and just general care. Also certain cities are very supportive of outdoor activities for those who like to run or bike. For example there ...
Thanks for that NewBrazil.I'm 18 days into recovery from a knee arthroplasty. It is my second. I'm already walking (limited) without a crutch. I love the medical service that I received here in João Pessoa.My experience isn't really about ... Read More
How Do You Measure Your Property in Brazil by roddiesho
Admittedly I spent a half-hour on this, so I thought I would ask for help. Being very ahead of the time I wanted to record how much property we have since at some point we would hand it over to our daughter. I was hoping to translate that to acres, ...
@roddiesho ... The problem in the countryside is that the title paperwork is often not completed........ - @Peter ItamaracaTitle paperwork might not even exist and of a given piece of property, there might be often large extended family claims on ... Read More
Safe areas in the north of Brazil, coastal or close to the coast. by ltoby955
Looking for suggestions on safe and Ok value for money, also what is the taxation on foreign pensions?
So, the question of "safe" is subject to many factors. I've been coming to the northeastern coast (southeast as well) since 1981 and have lived in the northeast's interior since 2009 - I "feel" pretty safe all of the time, perhaps even more than ... Read More
This is for US citizens my question by NewBrazil
USA Marco Rubio just rejected all of the Head of Brazilian Superior Court Judge Visa to the USA along with his other colleagues and family members. My concern is will this Judge who does seem to run the Country retaliate. He could by rejecting all ...
@NewBrazilI would be way more worried about being a resident non-citizen in the USA than somebody with the same status here in Brazil at the moment. There are so many examples of masked unmarked authorities taking people from the streets without ... Read More
Road safety in Brazil by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Navigating roads and experiencing traffic in Brazil as an expat can be a learning experience. We invite you to share your insights in order to help other expats and soon-to-be expats stay safe on the road in Brazil, whether ...
@Peter Itamaraca "It is interesting to hear Americans bemoan about no turn on right...." Here in Campina Grande going right after a stop is no problem. Who stops in the first place!!??? 😗"...of course, drive on the correct side of the ... Read More
Greetings to all here by Will Hewitt
Hey Expat People,Hope this finds you all in good spirits. I’m [William]. I’ve spent the last four years diving into life in Rio and Fortaleza, and I’m super excited to join the ride here with all of you. I’m a massive ...
@Will HewittWhat kind of vehicle depends entirely onwhat kind of traveling you do. If you're going to stick close to cities where parts and service are easy then more exotic vehicles are OK. If you're going to be far from parts/service then you need ... Read More
Greetings to all here by Will Hewitt
Hey Expat People,Hope this finds you all in good spirits. I’m [William]. I’ve spent the last four years diving into life in Rio and Fortaleza, and I’m super excited to join the ride here with all of you. I’m a massive ...
Just found a book hidden amongst the other books - by Silvio Amorim, "Por dentro da Transamazônica: Uma viagem ao coração da floresta," 2012. Silvio did the trip on a motorcycle. Read More
Greetings to all here by Will Hewitt
Hey Expat People,Hope this finds you all in good spirits. I’m [William]. I’ve spent the last four years diving into life in Rio and Fortaleza, and I’m super excited to join the ride here with all of you. I’m a massive ...
@Pablo888 Jericocoara used to be a must-stop on the old "hippie route" days of the 60s-80s. I'm sure that things are all so different in the region today but back in the early 80s we were told to avoid Jericocoara because of some illness that was ... Read More
Greetings to all here by Will Hewitt
Hey Expat People,Hope this finds you all in good spirits. I’m [William]. I’ve spent the last four years diving into life in Rio and Fortaleza, and I’m super excited to join the ride here with all of you. I’m a massive ...
Offroad travel exists on all levels here in Brazil. There are the weekenders that head to drive (often illegally) across sandy ocean shores (with bad effects on coastal systems). There are those that simply live off of the main roads in 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
@Peter ItamaracaI did try it (Apis) years ago but it didn't do anything for me. 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 ...
I live in a place (interior PB) where informal footwear has almost always been some kind of sandal, usually made of leather but often with a rubber sole (often tire tread). Then (60+ years ago) one of our larger city employers, Alpargatas, Havaianas ... Read More
Retiree Need Dating Contract by Mark Blonde
Thinking of retiring in Brazil (Pipa) and living with an older Brazilian woman. We both have separate assets we want to protect for our children, also not wanting alimony etc. if it doesn't work out. Not looking for a "Stable Union." I've read we ...
@Mark BlondeI have to admit that I'd never heard of this, a contract between "ficantes." So I looked around and I found the following on the appropriate site for such things (in Portuguese, of course): ... Read More
Seeking Brazilian Family Lawyer (Estate / Inheritance) by zens
Hi all - I’m looking for a competent, trustworthy Brazilian family lawyer to help me understand and navigate family sucessão and herança matters in Brazil (what you’d call estate planning in the U.S., although I’m ...
@zensTrustworthy lawyers come mainly via good connections, often family connections. Best of luck to you in finding somebody that meets your needs.mberigan in PB Read More
Need help finding health insurance and an apartment by daniel2489
I'm a retiree from Switzerland and would like to live in João Pessoa starting in August. I'm looking for someone to help me 1) find health insurance in Brazil and 2) find an apartment. Who can help or knows someone who can?Daniel
Hi Daniel2489!I've already pointed out the UNIMED-JP positive points and hopefully some others can provide alternative options for your insurance needs in João Pessoa!!mberigan Read More
Need help finding health insurance and an apartment by daniel2489
I'm a retiree from Switzerland and would like to live in João Pessoa starting in August. I'm looking for someone to help me 1) find health insurance in Brazil and 2) find an apartment. Who can help or knows someone who can?Daniel
Welcome aboard Daniel. I sent you a DM. 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
@alan279I'm sorry to hear of your bad experience and now messed up eye!!!We have an ophthalmologist in the family that is superb and have had great success with her - but she is not SUS... only does specially referred clients that lack private ... Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2025 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
@Ipanema777,Hi John! Welcome aboard.Glad you showed up.mberigan Read More
FAX fix - here's a solution to an old problem
I was going to resurrect an old thread that ended in 2019 (without a solution) BUT decided to revive it here instead as there may be additional new solutions to needing to FAX in this modern age when FAXing is mostly a thing of the past.Old thread: ... Read More
Cheddar Cheese in Brasil? by alan279
Anyone know where I can buy cheddar cheese in Brazil?Thanks for any advice.Alan
Update: Riomar (in Recife) no longer has a Campo da Serra store. TThey do have a store located in Gravatá and they have a good selection of interesting cheeses. Search up their site for a list.I DID find mild cheddar imported from Cheshire ... 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
@alan279Is this SUS or a private clinic?mberigan Read More
Cheddar Cheese in Brasil? by alan279
Anyone know where I can buy cheddar cheese in Brazil?Thanks for any advice.Alan
They don't have cheddar but my favorite cheese store closest to home is in Pernambuco. It is called Campo da Serra and I won't put their website here because you can easily search it up. They have a store at the Riomar shopping mall and their main ... Read More
Are you assimilated to Brazil? Fun Facts by bepmoht
Todays Fun Fact Quiz. Are you assimilated to Brazillian Society Three easy questions to evaluate your Brazillian assimilation.1. Have you memorized your CPF number?2. Do you turn the key in your house door two rotations to lock it?3. Have you ...
@Alan279I get it. I'm offended by all of the advertising too but realize that the platform exists to generate income for somebody - not simply a forum for us. What really irks me is when one pays for a service and still gets bombarded by undesired ... Read More
DOGE is verifying your Social Security Payments as of March 31st. by roddiesho
Social Security Payments are the latest targets for DOGE. As of March 31st., there will be NO phone verification, you will have to verify on-site or....Roddie in Retirement🕵
..................."Don`t Do Anything". Roddie in Retirement🕵 - @roddiesho Yeah but maybe something to consider (I'm going to do this ASAP) is if you have a Brazilian spouse involved in the INSS/SSA agreement of 2018 (spousal ... Read More
Any interest in an Expat Meeting In Recife or João Pessoa? by Pablo888
Mar 14, 2025I will be near Recife from mid June to mid July. Is there an interest to do an expat lunch or dinner meeting either in Recife or João Pessoa?
@Pablo888Sure! We've done this before. I'll send you a DM.mberigan Read More
Buying books in Brazil
A way to avoid feeding the Bezos machine, get Brazilian books cheaper, re-use books (more ecological than buying new), AND finding [at times] rare gems, is by using EstanteVirtual which represents many used book stores (sebos) throughout Brazil. ... Read More
Allergies on the Beach in Brazil by alan279
I've developed allergies in the past five years, after living on the beach in Ilhéus for ten years previously without allergy symptoms.Some pharmacists have suggested that living near the ocean could be the cause of my allergic reaction. My ...
My anecdotal observation of seaside living is that the "fresh" maresia (sea spray) comes with cost. I used to spend a lot of time in Santos and learned that one does not store leather goods in a closet for long periods without suffering a plague of ... Read More
How to Get "Idoso" ID in Brazil by Pablo888
March 4, 2025As everyone knows, we are not getting older - just better....One of the most attractive features of retiring in Brazil is how well "idosos" are treated. Privileged parking, cutting to the front of the line, getting served first, ...
@bepmoht @mikehunterSorry! Good points/question!Up until this year I had been getting a municipal over-60 parking permit from our Superintendent of Traffic and Public Transportation. Maybe where you live something is available for your needs.mberigan Read More
How to Get "Idoso" ID in Brazil by Pablo888
March 4, 2025As everyone knows, we are not getting older - just better....One of the most attractive features of retiring in Brazil is how well "idosos" are treated. Privileged parking, cutting to the front of the line, getting served first, ...
@Pablo888You need a GOV.BR login and then go to Senatran and look under "Usuário" in the left column, then "Credencial de Estacionamento." It'll produce a credential that you can get plasticized. It's a nation wide parking permit for those ... Read More
Beach Trike by alan279
I'm thinking about buying a beach trike. Would it be quickly stolen?
@alan279Nice trike!!! Just add some shiny chrome and a faux tiny gas tank and you almost have a "Captain America" like Peter Fonda's from Easy Rider.... Kidding!Really, the best way to maintain mobility is to be active and what could be better than ... Read More
Productivity in Brazil. Time for a change? by bepmoht
Here are five countries where productivity loss due to holidays can be especially significant:1. India • Holidays: India has a large number of public holidays, with various festivals like Diwali, Holi, Eid, and regional holidays. Many of these ...
......people take a "sandwich" day - the Monday or Friday - off as well, resulting in a 4 day break. ....... - @Peter ItamaracaHah! I used to be quite involved in non-profit organizations here in PB and the rule of thumb was to get work completed ... Read More
A simple story from the Brazilian flyover zone
This morning I was reading the online book description of "Forty Acres Deep," by Michael Perry and the description included a phrase that reminded me of a recent encounter here in my interior Paraiba city. The phrase is "Seamed with grim humor and ... Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2025 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
@RobxrWelcome!! ....from Paraíba, a neighbor.mberigan Read More
What is your favorite Beasilian "go to" junk food ?? by GuestPoster6669
I've been painting my new apartment all week, and it's so hot here in the southeast that I had to stop and walk to the botequim a block from my house to recharge.Sitting with an ice cold 600ml bottle of Antarctica and a plate of French fries with ...
Here in PB we call fried aipim/mandioca macaxeira frita and I'm game. Beats fries....but an old time favorite of mine is a small plate of tripa assada (fried pork tripe) with a cup of caldo de feijoada (liquid from the feijoada) and shots of crystal ... Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2025 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
Aline, Matt, Vanessa! Welcome to all of you. I hope that the diverse folks on this site from all over Brazil can help you in settling in to your new communities. mberigan in Paraíba Read More
Funny or Unexpected Things in Brazil by Pablo888
In preparation for my brother's first trip to Brazil (from Canada), I am making a list of things to prepare him for the trip... I have listed a few of the gotchas here.... Can you help me remember what other things to warn him about?I consider this ...
@Pablo888"Anything else?""Skydivers," (paraquedistas) who finagle their way to better positions in lines.While this is still alive and well in normal street traffic encounters (drivers who squeeze past everyone else to gain whatever position that ... Read More
Funny or Unexpected Things in Brazil by Pablo888
In preparation for my brother's first trip to Brazil (from Canada), I am making a list of things to prepare him for the trip... I have listed a few of the gotchas here.... Can you help me remember what other things to warn him about?I consider this ...
Not so sure how we got to white vs yellow artificial lighting, 300K vs 6500K light colors/intensities but this is not just a pet peeve of mine but an environmental crisis with plenty of recent studies to back that claim up.AND (just because somebody ... Read More
Your orixás? by mberigan
Culture:After a recent trip to Salvador, a place I consider to be the spiritual center of Brazilian (Afro?) culture, I decided to find a Pai de Santo a do a "jogo de búzios" (mérìndílógún or cowrie-shell ...
@kolyaS122HSU,"Trabalhos" or "despachos" of evil or bad intent are not part of Afro-Indigenous-Brazilian practices.Time to visit a Pai (or Mãe) de Santo and learn more.mberigan Read More
Cost of living in Brazil in 2025 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Every year, we invite you to share your experiences with the cost of living in in Brazil, especially in the region or city you live in. Your insights will greatly help members planning their move to Brazil or already living ...
AB3: I've never cared for freshwater fish… Me neither. Are salt water fish/seafood flown into Manaus for you? - @alan279OMG - and THAT thought sparked the memory of a fry pan of asparagus with fresh caught Wisconsin early season native brook ... Read More
Your orixás?
Culture:After a recent trip to Salvador, a place I consider to be the spiritual center of Brazilian (Afro?) culture, I decided to find a Pai de Santo a do a "jogo de búzios" (mérìndílógún or cowrie-shell ... Read More
Free bank accounts if you're over 60? by mikehunter
I was investigating this for Banco do Brasil and stumbled upon this using Deepseek:Why the Idoso Account is Better for You: The Idoso account is free and offers full banking services, including unlimited withdrawals, transfers, and access to ...
If the bank representatives are still unable to locate the account, you can refer to Circular No. 3.919 issued by the Central Bank of Brazil (Banco Central do Brasil). This circular mandates that banks offer free accounts to specific groups, ... Read More
Looking for Expats in Brazil that have eco-project involvement
Hi - looking for folks that might be involved in eco-projects in their region. I'm trying to find English-speaking community around their region.Who knows - I might have neighbors that are working on things as I am???? What am I working on?Small ... Read More
SSA/IRS online access for Brazilian spouse by mberigan
Hi!Has anyone gone through the process of getting access the the SSA via Login.gov or Id.me for Brazil-based spouses. My wife needs access to SSA and IRS info. I've seen that all access should be through Login.gov or Id.me.Right now I'm unable to ...
..... and I got an auto-reply on my email to the FBU that might just have the answer.....Reading..... https://www.ssa.gov/foreign/"On ID.me's "Verify Your Identity" screen, select the "I don't live in the United States" link at the bottom of the ... Read More
SSA/IRS online access for Brazilian spouse
Hi!Has anyone gone through the process of getting access the the SSA via Login.gov or Id.me for Brazil-based spouses. My wife needs access to SSA and IRS info. I've seen that all access should be through Login.gov or Id.me.Right now I'm unable to ... 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 ...
Final note on our barking neighbors:They've mostly quieted down, I'm guessing because the litter has been sold but also because the owners are also tired of their dogs. They scream at them regularly. I have a collection of interesting recordings ... Read More
Golden Visa via Real Estate investment by Sampa_Brooklin
Hello - I am interested in contacting any expats on this forum who have obtained residency in Brazil based on real estate investment. I own two properties in Brazil and am looking to apply for the residency but it has been extremely difficult ...
@Sampa_BrooklinHave you considered utilizing the Banco Central's Registrato system? - @Marcos999Holy smokes! Nice tool. Didn't know about it. Just checked for all of my financial institution accounts - check✔ Next I'm awaiting a "cambio" ... Read More
Amazon River Cruise by john8670
Has anyone here ever tried an Amazon River cruise that’s multiple days? I stumbled across one that’s called the “Grand Amazon Expedition” that is out of Manaus. I’m going to assume this is similar to ocean cruises where ...
@john8670I was already trying to stay in 1984 (just married and in a huge São Paulo family) but Brazilian regulations had other effects which impacted my ability to change my status. Previously, in 1981, I had made a similar S American tour ... Read More
Amazon River Cruise by john8670
Has anyone here ever tried an Amazon River cruise that’s multiple days? I stumbled across one that’s called the “Grand Amazon Expedition” that is out of Manaus. I’m going to assume this is similar to ocean cruises where ...
@john8670,I "cruised" the Amazon from Manaus to Belém in 1984 in what was called a "gaiola," an immense boat that carried 400+ passengers and the majority of the passengers traveled in their hammocks (each passenger required to bring their ... Read More
Jao Pessoa by ltoby955
Does anyone live there or know about the city, Costs and safety woud help. Many thanks
@Itoby955Costs - compared to what? For example - JP has turned into a hotspot for investments in housing around a few different topics (retirement, beach, standard of living). That said - the boom already started and it is quickly getting more ... 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 ...
@alan279 That made me laugh!! That is something Iury would do.... but ask him some time about his mom's Fila Brasileiro there in Ilhéus. HUGE but gentle.I few other notes I've got on my situation:She is breeding/selling dogs out of her ... Read More
Noisy neighboring pitbulls
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 ... Read More
What Were You Happy For in 2024! by roddiesho
Before we start the New Years Resolutions for 2025, please share with us what resolutions and events made you happy in 2024!For me it is very easy. This time last year I was cautiously asking my wife if she had heard from our well-paid Immigration ...
This little fix will get you to Roderick's dream site: https://osesp.art.br/ Read More
What Were You Happy For in 2024! by roddiesho
Before we start the New Years Resolutions for 2025, please share with us what resolutions and events made you happy in 2024!For me it is very easy. This time last year I was cautiously asking my wife if she had heard from our well-paid Immigration ...
Turns out that among the many things I'm grateful for, the thing that most changed my life for the better was a new left (prosthetic) knee from Johnson Medical, model Attune. At the same time (while anesthetized on the table) my marvelous doctor in ... Read More
Have a safe, Happy New Year
2024 coming to a close. In fact, as I write this it is 6:13 a.m. on Jan01, 2025 in New Zealand!!! (14:13 p.m. Dec31 here)Hoping you all have a safe and enjoyable New Year celebration whether it be on a beach, in a club or in your family home.That ... Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2024 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
Matthew, yes it is. Welcome aboard.mberigan in Paraíba Read More
Something about DETRAN you won't find online...... by GuestPoster6669
A foreigner must have their physical driver's license showing more than one year plus one day since issuance/renewal ON THE PHYSICAL CARD in order to do an "averbacao".........this is their term for the act of changing your gringo license to a ...
Kevin,Here in Paraíba a simple google search turns up a number of despachantes for my city. Also, here in Campina Grande they have stands set up across the street from our DETRAN although they might just be vultures and not provide very good ... Read More
Regional Cost of Living Survey by bepmoht
A quick regional cost of living survey. My wife and I just finished two rather large (Bacon/cheese/burgers) on a bulky roll. Included veggies, tomato, lettuce, corn). Big chunks of Bacon probably 1/4 lbs worth. French fries included, I’d say ...
Back in July there was a thread on cost of living and the Numbeo dot com site was mentioned. Numbeo doesn't have much detail on Brazil but it has some numbers.....I just went shopping for today's/tomorrow's family meals. The house will be ... Read More
Something about DETRAN you won't find online...... by GuestPoster6669
A foreigner must have their physical driver's license showing more than one year plus one day since issuance/renewal ON THE PHYSICAL CARD in order to do an "averbacao".........this is their term for the act of changing your gringo license to a ...
On a side note, a frequent insult in the NE towards bad drivers is "motorista de Paraiba" - driver from Paraiba. This is because in the old days you used to be able to drive to Joao Pessoa, and pay a policeman to give you a license without any ... Read More
Something about DETRAN you won't find online...... by GuestPoster6669
A foreigner must have their physical driver's license showing more than one year plus one day since issuance/renewal ON THE PHYSICAL CARD in order to do an "averbacao".........this is their term for the act of changing your gringo license to a ...
Don't wait until your US license expires: that will unleash a whole host of new problems. - @abthree I didn't wait. My "despachante" sat on my process while my license expired. It required returning to the USA and renewing in order to be able to ... Read More
Automobile Fuel Cost in Brazil by alan279
What does it cost to buy fuel to drive your car a kilometer in Brazil? Just curious.
@mberigan Brazilians do seem to aspire to be Angelenos. Ilhéus is paving the beach, just like Southern California did in the 1960s. - @alan279Sorry to hear that Ilhéus is on that road.Yeah! Asphalt is [somehow] a measure of ... Read More
Automobile Fuel Cost in Brazil by alan279
What does it cost to buy fuel to drive your car a kilometer in Brazil? Just curious.
@Alan - here you go... just calculate for a 1km trip: https://www.calculator.net/fuel-cost-calculator.htmlBut if you're looking for real costs, well, the formula gets more complex. Tires, parts, labor, insurance, licensing... makes that Taxi ride ... Read More
In Recife and Itamaraca for a bit by John_D
My wife Rivane and I are in Recife (Espinheiro/Encruzilhada area) until Jan 18.We'll be staying one week in Itamaraca, starting Saturday Dec 14 through Friday Dec 20.If anyone in the area would like to meet up while we're here, just let me know.The ...
Avoiding swimming, in general, is something to consider. The following are aids in helping you figure out if the waters of you municipality are being treated. If they aren't, well, fresh or salt water, it is not advisable.I hate to burst anybody's ... Read More
CPF Number vs Social Security Number by bepmoht
My pondering of the morning leads me to this tidbit. So, as an American citizen I have always been warned to not give out my Social Security number to anyone without a VERY good reason to do so. I’ve always been curious of the fact that in ...
bepmoht - my take on the CPF is that it is a tax ID (Receita Federal) and not a retirement income ID, which would be from the INSS. I don't have INSS so I've not been exposed to issues about protecting one's INSS info.MattB Read More
Living here as a resident versus being a tourist by GuestPoster6669
I have been coming here as a tourist since 2000. I obtained permanent residency (RNE) thru marriage back in June 2017, and have physically moved here since September 1st of this year. I'm sitting on my balcony having my second coffee of the morning, ...
@kolyaS122HSU has "gone native" and, frankly, it's the only and best way to truly appreciate Brazil.MattB in PB Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2024 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
Hi Alesiso! Just the other day I wandered to the bottom of the Expat members selection under the MORE drop-down where I saw that Salvador da Bahia has 490 members. I don't know how accurate that is and I'm just guessing that most of those people ... Read More
Medicare Part B - Should I stay or should I go?
Was: https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=868093So Medicare Part B folks are going to face an increase starting soon and I'm here to question the value of paying for something I may never use. An insurance agent tried to get me on board with ... Read More
Online v/s in-person shopping in Brazil (testimonials) by Ameerah Arjanee
Hello everyone, I'm a content writer for Expat Magazine. We are working on an article exploring the experiences of expats with online shopping as compared to in-person shopping. We would love to hear about your shopping experiences to include as ...
@Ameerah ArjaneeI prefer buying in person and from local businesses, especially Brazilian products over imported products. I prefer this because I prefer to support the marketplace in which I live.That said, I do a lot of online purchasing because, ... Read More
Music types in Brazil and Where to go to Experience by Pablo888
A not so serious topic - I hope...Where do I go, in Brazil, to experience the best of a particular type of music type?An example here: in the USA, Nashville is the city to go to experience the dynamic history of country music. Also for Jazz, NOLA ...
@alan279 Good suggestion Alan!!So now I'm trying to figure out how one watches "Moro no Brasil" (I've seen it) so that I can show it to others.mberigan Read More
Music types in Brazil and Where to go to Experience by Pablo888
A not so serious topic - I hope...Where do I go, in Brazil, to experience the best of a particular type of music type?An example here: in the USA, Nashville is the city to go to experience the dynamic history of country music. Also for Jazz, NOLA ...
@Pablo888,During the June festivities (festas juninas = Saints Peter, Anthony and John) all of Brazil shifts gears into a more traditional music mode which is primarily (not solely) focused on "forró." There are various types of forró ... Read More
New members of the Brazil forum, introduce yourselves here - 2024 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Brazil forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on your ...
Hello @gbrooks1911! What part of Bahia keeps you coming back?It is a big place with many features!MattB in PB Read More