The Northeast, Brazil
Vivo, Claro, and TIM are the main mobile operators in Brazil. Purchase SIM cards (chip pré-pago) at official stores in malls.
Wi-Fi is widely available in Recife at hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, cafes, and shopping malls.
Portuguese is the official language. English is not widely spoken outside major hotels and tourist areas.
Equipping yourself with these tools will make interactions smoother during your trip.
Navigate Recife's typical operating hours for businesses and services.
Banks operate Monday to Friday, generally from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Large shopping malls are open from 10 AM to 10 PM, Monday to Saturday, and 2 PM to 8 PM on Sundays.
Hours vary, but commonly Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM or 10 AM to 5 PM or 6 PM. Many are closed on Mondays.
ATMs are available at banks, inside shopping malls, and some supermarkets. Look for 'Caixa Eletrônico 24 Horas'.
Core tourist services rarely close seasonally, but smaller businesses might have reduced hours during very low periods.
Brazil observes numerous national and regional holidays. Plan accordingly if your trip coincides with a holiday.
Respectful interaction with local culture elevates your experience and fosters positive exchanges.
Brazilians are generally warm. A firm handshake is formal; two cheek kisses are common informally (woman to woman, or woman to man).
Use 'Senhor' and 'Senhora' respectfully. Be mindful of sensitive topics.
Generally fine to photograph public places. Ask permission for individuals. A 10% service charge is often on restaurant bills.
Recife's infrastructure can present challenges for mobility, but improvements are continuous.
Research specific needs and contact establishments directly in advance of your trip for a smoother experience.
Being aware of local safety practices will contribute to a secure and comfortable journey in Recife.
Maintain awareness of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Boa Viagem beach is famous for its natural reefs, but be mindful of tides.
When out at night, stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially in tourist zones.
Knowing local emergency numbers is important in any situation.
Familiarize yourself with local safety guidelines to navigate the city confidently and enjoy your visit.
