It’s a fact. A little bit of the Brazilian lifestyle can make you a better person. And with the onset of mega cold in the Northern Hemisphere there are throngs of travelers who are choosing Brazil as their destination.

There are tons of reasons to go there: the cold mate on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, the expressive and friendly nature of the people, the sun and surf and much, much more. You basically can’t go wrong with a trip to Brazil.

So… we thought we’d compile a list of some of the items that the average north American or European should take along with them for a trip to Terris Brasilis.

Please be aware that some of these items, even though you already have them, are better acquire when you are there.

the classic sunga

1. Bathing Attire! For men: the classic sunga, or what we in the USA & Canada call “speedo.” But wait! These aren’t the triangular shaped bathing suits of Olympic athletes who shave their legs. The style of choice is more “boxer briefs.” This you may just want to get these in Rio as their beach culture is soooooo much more developed the range of styles and quality is immense. Don’t fret about them being too revealing, cool cat Brazilian boys often wear ultra cool surf shorts on top. These look good, relaxed, and keep the potential erection at bay. Problem is, usually the women complain if a guy has super pale thighs that contrast with a well-tanned body.
   

   the Brazilian bikini, four triangles and string, God bless

2. For Women: the bikini is Queen is Brazil ever since the Girl from Ipanema won the hearts of countless people around the world. If you come with your own know that locals often ridicule the Euro bikinis because the bottoms are too big and leave a very noticeably and un-sexily wide tan lines. The way to go is to buy a bikini when you get there. Their bikini culture is the most advanced in the world. High technological research goes into the development of the perfect style. The days of fio dental, or “butt floss” bikini bottoms are long gone and have been replaced by a more form fitting, classy, yet still sexy piece of fabric on the bum. Don’t be alarmed at the prices; you are paying for the designs, not the amount of fabric.

surfer shorts

Other Stuff:

1. Sun-screen. Very crucial for the fair skinned. In the beginning you will be so white, it will hurt the eyes and many people may just think you are a ghost. A common mistake is to think that because you are used to the sun and used to tan fast as a kid that you can just go with it. Even people with lots of melanin burn, and burn badly. If you are black, while you have a natural advantage, still don’t take it for granted in your first couple of days. Sun block is also very expensive in Brazil!
2. Rain attire! It often rains in Brazil, be prepared.
   

   It rains in Brazil, but it soon goes away!

3. A Portuguese phrase book is a good investment. Fumble through it on your spare times. A lot of people don’t speak very much English if any at all.
4. A light sweater for the air-on bus rides. It’s basically the only time you’ll need it in the high tourist season of Nov-May. Most of the country is hot all the time.
5. A kanga or beach towel. Please don’t use a regular towel on the beach. Use a sarong or something, you can pick these up here as well. The famous models are the Copacabana sidewalk pattern, the Brazilian flag or the Biscoito Globo brand.
   

   kangas for sale in Rio

6. A sense of humour! This is crucial. People will make fun of the way you fumble with your Portuguese. If you take it personally, you are in trouble and will not have fun.
7. Sun glasses. Duh? But you can find these there.
8. Condoms. Duh? But you can find these there.
9. A sense of adventure! This is the most important. We don’t mean that you should be venturing down dark alleys and do stupid stuff like try to surf the biggest wave or swim with sharks. However, try new foods, (açaí especially), talk to strangers, don’t be shy about dancing in public and trying to samba. Your trip will be a reflection of the good energy you put into it!!

Lastly, if you need to feel like you are in Brazil but are in the tri-state area, then reach for that bottle of Rio Mate!