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Maintain steady eye contact at all times; it is considered impolite to break eye contact.

People stand closely in front of each other, even when talking. Brazilians are a gregarious people and as such they like proximity, but they have a knowledge of the customs of other countries.

Brazilians tend to be very fast talkers; expect any conversation to be fast-paced. It just seems faster; it is the same if you are talking to a foreigner.

It is normal for a conversation to be highly animated, with frequent interruptions, exclamations of 'no!', and a tremendous amount of physical contact. This is very true, as they really do listen and not pretend to listen.

Don't be alarmed if some of the interjections sound confrontational; this is simply a good-natured way of expressing interest in what is being discussed.

Attempting to direct or monopolize a conversation is frowned upon.

The language of this country is Portuguese. Make an effort to learn different words and phrases--don't worry about making mistakes. Brazilians will appreciate your efforts even if your vocabulary is limited.

Although Brazilians are very reticent about their own personal lives, they may nevertheless ask intrusive questions about your income, religion, and marital status. If you don't want to reveal this information, remain polite but give a vague, indirect, answer.

Brazilians also consider themselves Americans. Consequently, don't use the phrase 'in America' when referring to the United States.

Brazilians are enthusiastic 'futebol' [soccer] fans and this subject usually stimulates a lively conversation. Other popular sports include basketball, fishing, horse racing, tennis, and volleyball.

Topics to Avoid

ethnic and/or class differences. (Depending on the environment, class differences are more prone to discrimination than race.)

politics. (Again it depends on how it is discussed or approached. Brazil has been a democracy since 1989.)

Argentina, Brazil's main rival. (Only if you are discussing soccer, but Argentina is one of Brazil's great business partners in Mercosur.)

criticizing any aspect of Brazil. (Again as long as it is constructive there is no problem.)

personal questions--particularly those regarding family, income, and status in the workplace. [Brazilians are very personal and gregarious but they are very tactful, and may ask certain aspects of these topics as a mere comparison and as a means to better understand you.

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