Experience Brazilian Culture...
Brazilians are extreme fans of soccer, to the point of obsession. They love soccer, or what they call in portuguese "futebol" (foo·chee·bawl). Where our city and state parks would have tennis, track and baseball fields, there's are dedicated to this game. Men, more so than women and male children start their love of this game early and by adults are engulfed by the non-stop coverage provided by nearly all national and popular tv channels. A weekend never goes by without there being a game of soccer played either in television or in real life.
Another Brazilian favorite is going to the beach. This is not just something that is done during a vacation or one or two weeks a year... this is a crucial part of life and recreation for Brazilians. If it's a holiday or just a two day weekend, Brazilians make time to head to the beach and enjoy the good life. This is definitely a favorite for those who live in the warmer parts, from Santa Catarina north and for the southern region during the months of December through May which are the warmer months. Many beaches in Brazil are not like the US, in that, alcoholic drinks, food and gifts are sold by passerby's and mobile kiosk owners to those catching some rays on the beach. No pressure though, so you can enjoy fun in the sun.
During the month of February, once a year, Brazilians celebrate Carnaval, a festival rich in music, colors, dancing, art and more. Nearly the entire country engages in this celebration, watching it on TV, participating in the event, volunteering, or passing by the streets where it's taking place. The roar of the drums, trumpets and other instruments are heard for many blocks not to mention the pounding of the dancing feet and the float's mechanical noises as well. Nothing compares to the heart-pounding sensation you feel when you hear and see this festival and thereby experience Brazilian culture up close.