

10/10
The American dollar can go far in Brazil. When I was there, $1 USD equaled $6 BRL I brought $200 USD and after the conversion fees, I had $1,000 BRL. A lot of my necessities were covered ( food, water, activities, etc). The money I had was enough for anything I wanted. At the end of the three weeks I was trying to find ways to spend my reals.
Of course I needed to do a big shopping trip while I was there, because their malls are insane. They are all at least 4 floors, and resemble a bigger version of the Mall of America. I bought an entire haul of clothes, swimsuits, and everything else you could think of for a little under $275 USD. I could I would make a trip to Brazil to just go shopping!
10/10
Brazil is full of rich culture, but in Bahia, life is just different there. In Pelourinho, music floods the streets and women dressed in traditional African dress roam the streets (unfortunately I do not have any photos/videos). In Itacare there are traditional African dances performed by people of all ages with a unique African string instrument called a Berimbau. I don’t really have words to describe the vibe there’s something you genuinely have to experience for yourself.
They even celebrated their New Years Eve a little bit different then they do in the US. It’s very common to wear all white to signify purity, peace, and a fresh start for the new year. They celebrated by popping champagne, giving everyone a hug, and wishing them a happy new year!

10/10
The food in Brazil is UNREAL!!!
The fruit is so yummy, and they have some unique fruits that I have never seen before! Their fresh fruit juices were so refreshing after a long day at the beach! The acai is incredible, and actually originates in Brazil.
Not pictured is Coxinha, which is one of my favorite Brazilian foods. I can confidently say that I prefer Brazilian food over American food any day!

10/10
I will never get over the scenery in Bahia. Even the “boring” countryside is so insanely beautiful. The land is so green, and there are often farm animals grazing the land. The oceans were so clean and blue. The beaches were thriving and the views, breathtaking.
Every day the birds chirped, non stop, and the sky was lively with the many different birds native to Brazil. Hearing the birds outside was the best way to wake up!
This actually the entrance and exit of the airport! It’s all bamboo, and it was so cool to see. You can even see how Brazilian drivers are just from this video. From this point on I was already terrified of the drivers (half joking?)
This is a video of the country side!!! I took this on the way to Itacare… look at how effortlessly beautiful this country it!

5.5/10
Getting around Salvador is, in all honesty, very difficult. I didn’t have to drive of course, but the traffic was always bad. They don’t really follow road signs very much, and there is always a motorcycle coming up behind you. I personally was just very stressed out, but I trusted Bruna, and her ability to drive!
I didn’t use public transit at all while I was there, except for an Uber one time. From what I’ve heard from Bruna, it’s not the safest way to get around especially for foreigners. It does what it needs to do. It isn’t as advanced as some countries. Brazil is huge and the most effective way to get around is with a car or an Uber.

7.5/10
This is solely based on my experience. I travelled and stayed with locals throughout my entire trip, and because of them I was able to ensure that my belongings and safety was secure. There is a level 2 travel advisory when traveling to Brazil, and in some areas it’s a level 4. Observe caution and avoid going into Favelas, or being alone at night.
There was only one time where I felt the need to have more caution, and that was because we were out at night without Bruna’s parents. Besides that one time, I felt very safe. Everyone I met was super respectful and so welcoming.

10/10
The people in Brazil are so extremely kind. I was welcomed in at first sight. I was often greeted with a kiss on the cheek or the hand, a hug, or a combination of both! I stayed with my friend Bruna and her family, and on the first day I felt like a part of the family. They welcomed me with open arms and made me feel so comfortable.
In my experience, Brazilians value making you feel comfortable and welcomed. I was always told that I was beautiful and was encouraged heavily to go out of my comfort zone! To this day, I have not met a rude brazilian.
All these kind people invited Bruna into their home and treated us like friends! Even though I did not speak the same language, they did what they could to make me feel welcomed. They were a group of friends that live on the island together! They said they spend almost every day with each other. I met them through a girl who I thought was Bruna’s cousin (turns out her and her family like distant friends with someone?) I’m not quite sure, but it really shows just how friendly Brazilians are.
The biggest culture shock is that they do not flush toilet paper down the toilets. This is pretty common in South America, as many countries do not have the proper plumbing to flush paper.
I was really scared of this, because I didn’t know what to expect and honestly it wasn’t that serious. Public spaces have huge garbage cans in the stalls, and the bathrooms are constantly being cleaned. Bathrooms in a house had garbage cans that normally had a lid, and would be frequently changed. It really wasn’t as bad as I thought it would have been. However, after a long and emotion flight home I did cry tears of joy when I got to flush toilet paper again ( I was feeling patriotic, maybe? I was stressed? I really don’t know, but it made me happy to be home!)

8.9/10
Overall, Brazil is one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. From the people, to the food, down to nature, Brazil takes first place for me every single time. Brazil holds such a special place in my heart, along with Bruna and her family. I have been dedicated to learning the language for over a year, and being able to see country was truly life changing. I am so grateful for everyone that gave me the opportunity to have this experience of a lifetime!
