1. Warm Greetings and Physical Contact

• Greeting Style: Brazilians are known for their warmth, and greetings often include a kiss on the cheek (usually two in Rio, three in São Paulo, depending on the region). A hug, handshake, or tap on the shoulder are also common ways to greet.

• Personal Space: Brazilians tend to stand closer than people from some other cultures, especially in social settings. A comfortable proximity can help create a sense of friendliness and trust.

2. Punctuality

• Time Flexibility: For social gatherings, being 15-30 minutes late is usually acceptable and even expected. However, in business settings, punctuality is valued, especially in more formal or corporate environments.

• Social Events: It’s common for events to start later than scheduled, especially informal gatherings or family events. Being overly punctual in these situations may surprise some hosts.

3. Friendly and Open Communication

• Directness with Diplomacy: Brazilians can be expressive and often prefer a conversational, indirect approach, especially when discussing sensitive topics. Humor and friendliness are highly valued, even in serious discussions.

• Personal Questions: It’s common to be asked personal questions early in a relationship (e.g., about family or work) as a sign of interest and friendliness. Questions about age, marital status, and children are not unusual and are part of getting to know someone.

4. Respect for Hierarchy and Titles

• Titles in Professional Settings: Address people with “Senhor” or “Senhora” (Mr. or Mrs.) followed by their last name in professional settings, unless invited to use first names.

• Academic and Professional Titles: Titles like “Dr.” (Doctor) or “Prof.” (Professor) are often used to show respect in formal interactions, especially when addressing those in academic, medical, or high-ranking positions.

5. Importance of Family and Close Friendships

• Family-Centric Culture: Family is central to Brazilian society, and family gatherings are often large and frequent. Many Brazilians have close bonds with extended family, and friends are often treated like family.

• Inclusivity: Brazilians are welcoming and may invite visitors to family gatherings or social events. Accepting these invitations is seen as a positive gesture of respect and appreciation.

6. Dining Etiquette

• Food Sharing and Trying New Dishes: Brazilians love sharing food and may encourage you to try different dishes. It’s polite to accept these offers, even if it’s just a small portion.

• Using Utensils: Unlike in some cultures, Brazilians typically use both knife and fork, even for foods like pizza.

• Tipping: A 10% service fee is usually included in the bill at restaurants, but additional tipping isn’t necessary. However, tipping for exceptional service is appreciated.

7. Dress and Appearance

• Stylish and Presentable: Brazilians tend to dress with attention to detail, even for casual outings. In big cities like Rio and São Paulo, looking neat and presentable is often valued.

• Beachwear Norms: At the beach, it’s common to wear smaller swimwear, and sarongs are often used as cover-ups. However, avoid walking around in beachwear outside beach areas, as this can be seen as inappropriate.

8. Emotional Expression and Body Language

• Expressiveness: Brazilians often use hand gestures, facial expressions, and body language to express themselves. Being open with emotions is common and seen as a natural way to communicate.

• Eye Contact: Eye contact is considered a sign of trust and interest. Avoiding it might be interpreted as disinterest or a lack of confidence.

9. Gift-Giving

• Social Gatherings: When invited to someone’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift, such as flowers, chocolates, or a bottle of wine. Avoid giving purple or black flowers, as these colors are associated with mourning.

• Holiday Gifts: Brazilians often exchange gifts on Christmas, birthdays, and other significant holidays, but it’s also common to give small, thoughtful gifts during the year.

10. Respect for Religion and Spirituality

• Religious Diversity: Brazil is diverse in terms of religious beliefs, with a mix of Catholicism, Protestantism, Afro-Brazilian religions (such as Candomblé and Umbanda), and other practices.

• Respect for Beliefs: Show respect for people’s beliefs, even if they differ from your own, and avoid making dismissive remarks about any religious practice or ritual.

11. Queuing and Personal Patience

• Waiting in Lines: In places like banks, post offices, and government buildings, lines can be long, and patience is expected. While Brazilians are generally good-natured about waiting, avoid any signs of frustration or impatience in these settings.

12. Celebrating and Socializing

• Festivals and Celebrations: Carnival, New Year’s Eve, and other cultural festivals are celebrated widely and often involve music, dancing, and food. Participation is encouraged, and being open to the lively social atmosphere is appreciated.

• Barbecues (Churrasco): Brazilians love social gatherings around a “churrasco.” If invited, joining in is a great way to connect and enjoy traditional Brazilian hospitality.