The South, Brazil
Major mobile providers are Vivo, Claro, and TIM. Vivo typically presents wide coverage. Purchase SIM cards ("chip pré-pago") at official stores in malls, airports, or large pharmacies. Passport is needed for registration.
Brazilian Portuguese is the official language. English is not widely spoken outside tourist-oriented places. Translation apps are invaluable.
Having a charged phone with a local SIM or eSIM simplifies navigation and access to information throughout your visit.
Understand typical business hours to plan your activities effectively in Curitiba.
Retail shops operate 9/10 AM to 6/7 PM (Mon-Fri), shorter on Saturdays, closed Sundays (except malls). Shopping malls are open 10 AM-10 PM (Mon-Sat), 2 PM-8 PM (Sun). Restaurants typically serve lunch 12 PM-3 PM, dinner 7 PM-11 PM.
Shopping malls generally open 10 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, with reduced hours on Sundays (e.g., 2 PM - 8 PM). Food courts extend hours.
Lunch service typically 12 PM to 3 PM, dinner service from 7 PM to 11 PM or later. Many restaurants close mid-afternoon.
Banks typically open 10 AM to 4 PM (Mon-Fri). ATMs ("Caixas Eletrônicos") are widely available 24/7 at bank branches, malls, and supermarkets.
Brazil observes numerous national holidays (Carnival, Easter, Independence Day, Christmas). During these, most businesses, banks, and government offices close.
Always check specific opening hours for museums and attractions, as these vary. Holidays significantly alter schedules.
Navigate social interactions and cultural norms in Curitiba.
Formal greetings feature a firm handshake and direct eye contact. Informally, women often greet with a kiss on each cheek. Men usually shake hands. Using "senhor" or "senhora" for older or unfamiliar people is polite.
Brazilians socialize extensively over meals. A 10% service charge often appears on the bill. If not, 10% is customary. Photography is generally permitted in public spaces.
Generally avoid deep political discussions unless you know the person well. Be neutral about local football teams, a national passion. Brazil has significant social disparities; be mindful in discussions about wealth or poverty.
Brazilians generally have closer personal space than some Western cultures; do not be surprised by close proximity during conversations. Curitiba is one of Brazil's more progressive cities, yet public displays of affection by same-sex couples might draw stares in less cosmopolitan areas.
A polite and open approach to local customs creates a more rewarding travel experience. Embrace the local way.
Curitiba makes efforts in accessibility, notably within public transport.
Curitiba has worked to improve accessibility, especially with its modern BRT system, which presents level boarding and accessible stations. Newer public buildings, shopping malls, and major attractions often feature ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Major parks like the Botanical Garden (paths are mostly flat) and some areas of Barigui Park offer relatively easy navigation. Modern shopping malls and museums, like the Oscar Niemeyer Museum, have good accessibility with elevators and ramps.
Limited specialized services explicitly for tourists with visual or hearing impairments exist. Rely on universal accessibility features where available. Some larger attractions may present audio guides or tactile exhibits.
Official tourism websites for Curitiba or local disability organizations in Brazil might present more detailed and specific information regarding accessible travel options. Contact them in advance for specific needs.
While progress has been made, always verify specific accessibility details for older sites or less frequented areas beforehand.
