Brazil

Brazilians have an informal culture, and freely communicate through body language and physical touch. As a people, they are very expressive physically, and touch often during conversation, which is a sign of friendship. They also require less personal space than Westerners. Women greet each other with kisses on each cheek, while men hug or shake hands.

Time is more fluid in Brazil, as with many countries in South America. Events will begin when they begin, which is not necessarily when they are scheduled for. It’s normal and acceptable to arrive 30 minutes late.

Spend a day in Rio and its sun-soaked beaches. Hike up to the Christ the Redeemer statue or take a cable car up to Sugarloaf to watch the sun set over the city.

Explore Paraty, a historic town built during the 18th century gold trade. There’s a church there built by freed slaves called Santa Rita.

Head out to Manaus, the gateway of the Amazon. Go on a safari or take a ferry into the rainforest!

If you are near the border of Venezuela and Argentina, check out Iguaçu Falls, some of the largest falls in South America.