What is life like as an expat in your area?
When we asked people living abroad what life is like in their areas and how people spend their time, they said...
"Living as an expat in an area is an exciting and unique experience. Being an expat allows you to partake in a one-of-a-kind cultural experience while making new friends along the way. It is a chance to make life-long connections with people from various backgrounds. Aside from the intercultural connections, the area can offer wonderful opportunities for sightseeing and exploration. Additionally, the area may provide the opportunity to practice a new language, learn the local customs, and participate in local events. With the right mindset and preparation, living as an expat in an area can be an incredible journey full of rewarding and memorable experiences," wrote a member who made the move to Brazil.

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"Peoples lives, no joke, revolve around the beach and sports. You will meet many people by just going to the beach or walking on the beach front and around the Lagoa (lagoon). Brazilians are very easy going; they talk to you all the time and everywhere. Some knowledge of the language is essential. Nobody, outside the tourist industry, speaks any English or any other language for that matter, but Portuguese," explained one expat living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Brazil?
- How do I meet people in Brazil?
- What is life like in Brazil?
- Is there a lot of crime in Brazil?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Brazil accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Brazil like?
- Is the cost of living in Brazil high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Brazil?
- What are healthcare services like in Brazil?
- Is the cost of living in Brazil high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Brazil?
- What is the weather like in Brazil?
- Are there good restaurants in Brazil?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Brazil?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Brazil?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Brazil?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Brazil?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Brazil?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What is life like as an expat in your area?
If you live in Brazil, newcomers to Brazil would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.