Area and Coastline -Brazil's 3,319,666 square miles or 8,511,965 kilometers cover almost half of South America. Brazil coastline runs along the Atlantic Ocean for over 11,919 miles of white sandy beaches.

Language - Portuguese is the national and official language. The "Brazilian Portuguese" has a flavor of its own, typical of a young and dynamic country. Today we can say the Brazilians speak "Brazilian". English is spoken in stores, restaurants, hotels an tourist places.

Climate - Most of Brazil lies immediately to the equator. As a result, there is a very little seasonal variation. The climate is a comfortably temperate in most of the country, and a refreshing sea breeze often blow along the cost almost year around. Temperature ranging from 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 30 degrees Centigrade) - Check the climate of Latin America

Currency - The Brazilian currency is the REAL (R$), divided into 100 "centavos". The commercial and tourist rates are published daily in all major newspapers. Quoted against the U.S. dollar, the tourist exchange rate gives more Reais to the dollar than does the commercial rate. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at the hotels, banks and authorized travel agencies located by the sign EXCHANGE.
Most major credit cards are accepted. Check exchange rates.

Tipping - A tip ranging between 10 to 15% is customary in bars, restaurants and hairdressing salons, if not already included on the bill.

Electric Current - Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo provide 110 or 120 Volt 60 Cycle alternating current (AC). Salvador and Manaus have 127 Volt service. Recife, Brasilia and a number of other cities have 220 Volt service.

Visa - All American citizens are required to obtain a VISA to enter Brazil. Please check Visa Information.