Welcome to Brazil, the 5th largest country in the world and the largest in South America. Do you know what a "Carioca" is? Is it true that all you know about Brazil has to do with the rainforest and the wild carnival days in Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo? Or have you seen any of the most recent calendars featuring a few of the sexy, drop-dead gorgeous Brazilian babes? Well, business will probably take your paths to this country. In this and other reviews, you will be acquainted with some of the country's best resources. First things first, you need to open your heart and be ready to plunge into such a diverse culture. Brazilians of all backgrounds, origins, and creeds are the country's best resources so far. Getting to understand them will sure make a whole lot of difference in this huge country!
How any ordinary tourist can conquer the Brazilian's heart
What you may observe as you go about your business in the country
A sports commentator once said that the Brazilian as either a soccer fan or a soccer player. In my experience with Brazilians in general, I will say that he was not far from the truth. There is no doubt that any visitor to this country will, one way or the other, be exposed to the other regular carnival which a soccer match. It is a big event that draws everybody to the field. From the president of the country to the farmer, the true Brazilian loves soccer, a sports that is starting to gain popularity in the US.
Soccer as a national passion: Brazil as a Soccer country
How to become a fan
Despite the recent losses to some neighboring national teams such as those of Paraguay, Uruguay, and Chile (3-0 as of 8/16/00) Brazil is known by many soccer connaisseurs/connoisseurs as a powerhouse. These days, as you go around, the lack of good defense and offense will be the topic of choice. Everybody will offer their comments in an effort to rebuild the national team. In years past, coaches and management used to be fired after catastrophic losses. I guess the point is that Brazilians are not supposed to lose a major match to any other teams. What we saw at the last world cup was a team that was in trouble. Then France ended up winning the cup. That was the beginning of a few major defeats of the country that produced such great players as Pele who remains a celebrity, and many others who excel in the best of European leagues.
Any visitor can become a true fan by making time to participate in a game with the locals. The fans can be of any gender and age. Engage then in conversation about how the team could have performed. Keep in mind Soccer a la Bresilienne is an art! If an important match is scheduled, you will not find anybody on the streets. They will be deserted. You need to the local bars, restaurants, churches or any congregation setting where a tv set can be located. Be ready to cheer with timbales or any object that can produce sounds. If you manage to make it to the stadium, bring huge drums be near a group that has a set of them.
To be a true spectator and fan, you need to be in the spirit. After all, a soccer fan, a Brasilian one is one who has the love of the game engraved on his heart. It's a matter of the heart! Make sure that you purchase the jersey of your favorite team. There is no cheering while being neutral! Take your corner and start screaming your heart out! Proudly wear your jersey around and be ready to give high-fives when your team scores. If there is one thing that will become clear is that Brazilians show proof of great camaderie.
Brazilians as warm, friendly, happy, enthusiastic people
When I was in college, I had a few home mates and soccer friends. They can have fun! In my mind, Brazilians are the most important treasure of the country. Get to share their pastimes and hobbies and they'll accept you with open arms.
More to come soon about other aspects of the country and its fabulous beaches
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