Today, we’re going to return to the Brazilian etiquette series to learn about manners in Brazil. We’re going to look at visiting, as well as socializing and exchanging gifts. Remember that it’s just as important to be aware of etiquette as it is to learn the language!
- When invited to a small gathering, arrive a half an hour late.
- When invited to a party or larger gathering, arrive an hour late.
- When invited for a formal visit, bring a small gift or flowers, or send flowers the next day.
- If you decide to pay a friend an informal visit, call ahead.
- Avoid purple flowers, since they are used for funerals.
- When giving gifts, try to avoid things that are purple or black (which represent mourning).
- Do not give handkerchiefs as gifts, since they are associated with funerals and weeping.
- Liquor, books, and nice pens are appropriate gifts.
- When giving gifts, also give them to children.
- It is ok to give perfume to a woman.
- Women should be careful about giving gifts to male co-workers or clients.
- In conversation, avoid personal topics like a person’s salary or his age.
- Avoid discussing the topics of religion, Argentina, the Amazon, the social class system, and politics.
- Bring up soccer, Brazilian culture (music, dance, etc), family and places you’ve been in Brazil in conversation.
- Always talk about how much you enjoy Brazil. Avoid criticizing Brazil in conversation.
- Greet someone by shaking their hand (when greeting a man) or giving one or two kisses on the cheek (when greeting a woman). Make sure you repeat these actions when saying goodbye.
- Make sure to greet and bid farewell to everyone present, especially at smaller gatherings.
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