São Paulo

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São Paulo dating guide advises how to pick up Brazilian girls and how to hookup with local women in São Paulo. Travel, enjoy and have fun with hot single girls and you might even meet the love of your life. Read more on how to date Brazilian women, where to find sex and how to get laid in São Paulo, Brazil.

São Paulo at night

Sao Paulo is the most populous city in Brazil. Although it is not the capital (that title belongs to Brasilia) it is still the financial heartbeat of the country. With an impressive number of skyscrapers and a consistently bustling population, Sao Paulo has plenty of fun in store for visitors and locals.

São Paulo Top 10 Overview:

Chance of picking up girls: 4.5 / 5

Picking up at daytime: 4 / 5

Picking up at nighttime: 4.75 / 5

Looks of girls: 4.5 / 5

Attitude of girls: 4 / 5

Nightlife in general: 4.5 / 5

Locals' English level: 2 / 5

Moving around the city: 4 / 5

Budget per day: US$40 - $700

Accommodation: US$15 - $500

Girls in São Paulo

The girls in Sao Paulo are definitely beautiful. Many have the classic Latina curvaceous look about them, and the Shakira hips are definitely in their blood. However, they are not all as easily stereotyped as you would imagine. Brazil has a rich history of colonization from many different countries in Europe, but mostly Portugal. Thus, there are many different types of girls.

RatingLooks Looks of girls: 4.5 / 5

Brazilian girls have gained a reputation for being some of the most gorgeous beings on earth, and it's not difficult to see why. Simply put, they are extremely hot! The culture also places a lot of emphasis on looking and feeling good, so fitness chains and gyms are a huge part of the industry. As a result, you have beautiful women with curvaceous bodies and sparkling attitudes to match.

RatingAttitude Attitude of girls: 4 / 5

Brazilian girls really do have lovely personalities and the culture is generally a friendly one. Unfortunately, the presence of crime in Sao Paulo makes a lot of people suspicious, so approaching a stranger is difficult. Other than that, you will find yourself developing plenty of interesting conversations with many different women.

Where to Get Sex Now

It is easy to get sex online in São Paulo. You just need to find the best available girls. See Girls Online Here!

How to Pick Up Girls

RatingPickup Chance of picking up: 4.5 / 5

Brazilian girls are generally sweet and friendly, particularly if you are a tourist with something different about you; however, you still need to remember a few things if you are going to be successful in Sao Paulo. Firstly, Brazilian women love men who are extremely masculine: fierce, confident and proactive. It is very rare for a girl to approach you. Instead, you will have to initiate the conversation with a certain level of boldness. Be sure about your moves: ask her out, lead the conversation and be a little pushy without being disrespectful. At the end of the day, she is still a person and wants to be treated as such. The second factor is wariness of crime. Sometimes, if you approach a girl in a certain area, you may scare her instead of seeming inviting. This may be of no fault of your own, but you just have to keep in mind that Sao Paulo is a haven for criminals.

Tips for Daytime

Sao Paulo is not known for its natural beauty; quite the opposite - it's a busy city where the main priority is money. Now, that doesn't mean that the people don't like to cut back and have some fun once in a while, but due to the lack of natural attractions and volume of crime, all of the fun is best had inside the security of buildings. Therefore, places like malls, clubs, universities and private residences are your best bet for finding a date.

If you are looking for a student vibe or a chance to hook up with a university scholar, there are a few campuses which you can visit. You do not necessarily have to go into the university grounds, as there are plenty of clubs, restaurants and cafes that students naturally gravitate towards try your hand at meeting a few girls there. Alternatively, this also provides an excellent place to meet a Brazilian wingman. The answer is fairly simple: get out there and start talking. The names of the best universities to visit will be listed in the following section.

Malls are definitely a great way to meet women. Like any other mall in the world, it attracts large crowds of people, so there is opportunity everywhere. Also, malls should have certain attractions for you to use to your advantage. If her English is not so good, you can try going to an arcade or catch a movie at the cinema; there are quite a few ways to make her more comfortable around you and have fun at a mall. You can end off a date with a dinner at a restaurant or check out the nightlife scene.

If you are feeling a bit adventurous, you can also try theme parks. These locations are filled with adrenaline-inducing contraptions and a lot of young people are looking for a good time. So, if this excites you, it's definitely worth a try. You will definitely run into lots of attractive girls. You can talk to them, a smile and a friendly face goes a long way. The best theme parks to visit will be listed in the following sections.

In a city that is filled with tall buildings and, often times, an array of grey, depressing structures, natural parks can be a haven for some. This often attracts joggers, people looking to take a break from the everyday scenery and families. Generally, you will find some nice girls whom you can approach, so it is definitely worth a shot. Remember, it is still outdoors, which makes girls slightly wary of strangers. Try not to appear as if you are stalking. Be open and honest; if you see a nice girl, don't stare at her for a few minutes, rather approach her straight away.

The fitness culture is big in Sao Paulo, and the city is home to some of the nicest gyms in the world. in fact, Brazil is second, only to the USA, on the list of countries that have the most gyms. If you happen to be the athletic type and you're looking to flex a bit of muscle, the gym is definitely a place to meet a girl. You also have the advantage of being in a secure location, so that takes the edge off of a lot of the girls. Again, be direct, talk to them and if the attraction is reciprocated, ask her out.

RatingDaytime Chance of picking up at daytime: 4 / 5

Your chances of picking up a girl during the day are pretty good. It's a simple matter of picking the right location. Some locations, such as the train station and other public venues may even have lots of girls, but the risk of crime is so high that they may not want to speak to you much. Instead, look for safe environments in which to pick up girls; you'll have a lot more success.

Furthermore, it cannot be stressed enough how different it is to approach a girl in South America as a whole. Visitors from Western countries may find the most dramatic differences, as the girls love men who know what they want, are extremely direct and are passionate about getting it. In a more Western society, flirting is generally more subtle and the girl picks up on certain unspoken ques. In Brazil, masculinity is your best friend.

Best Places to Meet Girls

As stated in previous sections, malls are a sure way to at least meet lots of girls in a relatively short space of time. As for closing the deal, that's up to you. If you are interested in using a mall as a location in which to pursue girls, there are a few you can visit - the city is massive and has too many to choose from. However, here are a select bunch to try:

  • Shopping Cidade Sao Paulo - this is a relatively new mall, but the diverse food court and many attractions on offer have made it a local favourite already. It offers great cinemas, a good place to grab a meal for any budget and lots of girls to meet.
Food Court at Shopping Cidade
  • Shopping Cidade Jardim - One of the mainstays of Sao Paulo culture, many of the locals claim this mall to be the best in the city. Its design is quite eco-friendly and it's popular with all ages - definitely a good place to go on a date or meet someone new. It also has a park on the roof!
Shopping Cidade Jardim
  • Morumbi Shopping - A huge mall with great shops - ranging from budget stores to designer brands. In fact, the only problem with this mall seems to be that too many people love it, as parking is sometimes difficult to find.
Morumbi Shopping
  • Shopping Iguatemi - Located in the financial district of Sao Paulo, this is the place to see and be seen. There are many high-end stores and extremely attractive girls from the upper class suburbs looking to blow some cash.
Shopping Iguatemi

If you are wondering where all the students are, you can try searching the university districts. It's even a great area to try renting a hostel for a few nights - be careful to take into account the crime, though. Ask around beforehand before committing to any accommodation. The top three universities are:

  • University of Sao Paulo
University of Sao Paulo
  • Sao Paulo State University
  • Federal University of Sao Paulo

Natural parks are available in certain sections of the city, and they provide a great place to get away from the busyness of city life. There are girls here, too! It could even become a place for a picnic date at a later stage. The best parks to visit are the safe ones, so try the following:

  • AM Parks
  • Rodrigues Parks
Rodrigues Parks
  • G7 Parks

There are also a few theme parks to try; some come with water and some without. Obviously, water = bikinis and bathing suits, so take that into account when making your decision. Try the following:

  • Magic City
Magic City
  • Cidade da Crianca
  • SESC Bertioga
SESC Bertioga
  • Hot Beach

These theme parks provide you with the best chance of creating the magic from more tropical destinations like Rio. Girls are generally friendly, enjoying their time in the sun and you can easily initiate a conversation by just walking up to one that strikes your fancy. Going on rides together is also a great way to initiate physical contact.

Tips for Nighttime

RatingNighttime Chance of hooking up at nighttime: 4.75 / 5

In Sao Paulo, the night life is definitely your best chance of hooking up with a girl. There are two reasons for this. Firstly, people are in that frame of mind, as Sao Paulo is usually a busy city with lots of variables to watch out for such as crime and just the general responsibilities of work. When it comes to letting lose, Brazilians know exactly what they are doing. Secondly, there are no substantial alternatives to the bars and clubs of the city. Save going away on vacation, the women of Sao Paulo have little other option to have fun, so you will find lots of people engaged in the night life throughout the city.

It is worth noting that Sao Paulo is big, very big. This is true not only in size but in population density (there are lots of people living in a small area). As a result, you may find yourself able to only explore a fraction of the night life, and this is okay. Stay clear of the poorer areas, as the clubs and bars are generally controlled by gangs and it's more of a venue for drug trade than anything else. You'll also most likely get your valuables stolen, especially if you are a tourist.

Best Nightclubs to Meet Girls

  • D.Edge - The design is spectacular, something out of a space-age sci-fi movie. It also happens to be the king of electronic music in Sao Paulo, and it is not difficult to see why the club has become a staple diet of the dance scene. Even if the electronic bangers and rich deep house is not your thing, it's worth going for the design and atmosphere alone.
  • Love Story - it has not been nicknamed the 'Club of all Clubs' for nothing. This historic club gets going at around 3am and the party continues until lunchtime. The vibe is electric and the music generously tantalizing. It's like stepping out of Sao Paulo and into Ibiza.
  • Casa da Luz - a new club in the heart of the city, which takes on a rustic and bohemian vibe. The music varies from night to night, but the vibe is definitely worth going for. You will want to check their events schedule to see what you're getting into.
  • Trackers - one of (if not the most) popular alternative club. It is located in the city centre and it has a unique charm. The design is based on an old apartment building, which gives it a unique flavour. Generally, the music consists of rock, but you may find an occasional DJ spinning some house, electro or hip hop.
  • Pratodia- a club located Barra Funda, which is perhaps not the most popular. However, if you are a connoisseur of music, this is the place for you. This edgy location has a great bunch of talented DJs who play a range of genres on vinyl only. Simply put, it's a good time with a great bunch of people without paying the earth.
RatingLooks Nightlife in general: 4.5 / 5

Sao Paulo is a dense city, and you would naturally expect many nightclubs that pump heart-stopping anthems until the sun comes up...and the city doesn't disappoint! Sao Paulo's night life is one of the best in the world; not only is the atmosphere electric, the music good and the people as madly in love with the beat as you, but the magical concoction of tasty tunes and gorgeous women is addictive. There are even a large number of independent parties that last well into the morning which would rival any international club scene. Sao Paulo definitely doesn't hold back!

Paulista Avenue at night, São Paulo

Mature Ladies and Cougars

There are plenty of cougars looking for a good time with younger men in Rio. If you are a tourist, it's even better. Many divorced or widowed women are looking for someone to keep them company; however, you will still have to keep gender specifics in mind. Most of Brazilian women want men to be extremely masculine, fierce and someone that takes the initiative. In return, they offer devotion, passion and plenty of sex.

Dating

When visiting São Paulo, dating can be a fun and interesting experience. AdultFriendFinder.com, lets you meet local members in São Paulo and get to know them on a personal basis before you arrive. It just takes a few minutes, you simply create an account, upload a few images and tell a little about yourself. Since time in your destination may be limited, get to know each other’s desires beforehand so when you do meet, you can skip the awkward introductions and start having some real fun.

Top Dating Tips

To smitten a Brazilian Beauty, you need to bring your A-game forward. Make sure you dress well, you are confident and you are able to flirt. They love a man oozing with masculinity and a hint of aggressiveness but this does not mean you can be rude. Make sure your advances are being reciprocated so you can take things forward.

Relationships and Love

Thousands of single women in São Paulo are searching for a partner and potential future husband. Check out an ultimate guide for dating local girls, relationships, love and marriage: Relationship & Love Guide to São Paulo

Online Dating

  • Tinder is an international online dating platform that everyone knows, so have this on hand at all times, no matter where you go. Most people find Brazilian women extremely attractive, so don't waste any time and get online as soon as possible. If you don't know how to use Tinder, you simply sign up with your phone number, upload a few pictures, and select girls that you find attractive. If you are not looking for a prostitute, then you will have to look out for them; remember, prostitution is legal and they have every right to be on the site.
  • ParPerfeito.com.br is the second most popular local dating site in Brazil. There is a weakness in the filtering systems, so users often feel targeted my sex workers and fake accounts. However, once you find your way through these with an adjustment of settings, there are plenty of genuine women to meet.
  • Badoo.com - another international dating platform that international travellers should not go without - is a vital tool in the playboy's armoury when in Brazil. In fact, most of the many millions of global subscribers are located in South America, making the site a must for any traveller. Again, you will have to look out for sex workers and fake profiles.

Online dating has its benefits, and it is a must in the modern world. If you are looking to interact with Brazilian women, the conversation can quickly move from a chatroom to a local mall and grabbing a coffee or meal at a café or restaurant. Invite her for a date and let her get to know you. Remember, Sao Paulo is filled with crime and most girls are suspicious of new people. Bar a select few, girls are unlikely to sleep with you after just meeting online.

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What Kind of Guys Have the Best Chances

The culture of Brazil is bustling and passionate. The successful man is not generally a particular race, but it is more about the type of personality you display - although there are certain races which are preferred to others, but these will be explained a bit more in the following paragraphs. Brazilian women are used to outgoing, confident men who know what they want. For example, a girl is usually approached by someone, and if the chemistry is good, she will kiss him just a few minutes later. The men are not shy and the men are not either. Therefore, in order to compete with the locals, you will be required to show the same level of confidence.

If you are looking to get laid, then appearing like you have money will be a factor. Even though this is not the ultimate factor - personality is probably the most important - you don't want to scare the girl off by looking like you come from a rough neighbourhood. In Rio, the people from these areas are often entangled in crime and the drug trade. You don't have to be super wealthy as well; just don't appear poor.

In terms of ethnicity, Brazilian girls are most likely to find other South Americans and Western Caucasians attractive. This does provide you with a slight advantage, but the diversity of women, and their tastes, is sure to gift you with plenty of opportunity no matter what your ethnicity is. African and Asian guys are often viewed as exotic and exciting. Again, it's all about getting out of your shell and making the move. If she likes you, she won't mess around. It could be a matter of just a few minutes.

Risks while Gaming

Sao Paulo has a certain amount of risks, which you'll need to prepare for if you are going to have a successful trip. The first, and probably the most obvious, is crime. Like any city with a wide gap between rich and poor, there will always be people looking to take a chance in the hope of stealing a few dollars. This can be particularly difficult in a place that doesn't speak much English. If you meet a girl for the first time, get to know her for a while before trusting her around you, especially in certain areas like Baixo Augusta (Sao Paulo's official Red Light District).

There are certain girls who hang around tourists and unsuspecting men, pretending to befriend them before slipping a tranquilizer in their drink. While you are out, they will steal anything they can - obviously not a nice experience! Therefore, be careful and keep your drinks in your hand at all times. Some of these girls even pretend to be prostitutes to gain access to hotel rooms just to rob the unsuspecting victim.

If you find a girl that you really like, chances are that you're not alone. If you are out on the beach or in a bar, you will constantly have to compete with a few guys for her attention. Remember, confidence is essential; don't let anyone step over you and stand your ground. If you show serious intent, other guys will generally back off. However, if you are a little tentative, you leave a gap for others to intrude. Other than that there will always be one drunken fighter wherever you go, but this is not a major problem. Stay clear of physical violence and you'll be good to go.

Another thing to remain aware of is that prostitution is legal in Brazil. As a result, you may meet sex workers who are out and about. They may even target you as a potential client. If this happens, be careful - prostitutes in Brazil have gathered a bit of a reputation for stealing from their clients. In order to decipher intentions, talk to a girl about her friends and family - perhaps her work or studies. This is a good way to find out her occupation and intentions.

Fights are unlikely unless you come across a particularly hardened person. In this case, rather take a step back, as you do not know who this person is and who his connections are. He may be related to a gang and this would cause a lot more trouble for you - particularly life threatening.

How to Get Laid as Soon as Possible

If you are looking to get laid quickly, the best way is to get online as soon as possible. This is, without a doubt, the best possible strategy to get a date in record time. Some sites, such as Brazil Cupid, allow you to meet Brazilian women even before you get into the country. Thus, you can begin the process as soon as you land.

Another common strategy which tourists rely on - known to locals as 'Gringos' - is to make a local friend. Having someone who knows all the spots is definitely a plus, and it should be on your list of things to achieve if possible. You can also gleam information from the girls you take out; allow her to show you around and take you to the most prominent spots in the city.

As a major city with not many natural attractions, there is somewhat of a limit to what you can do. If you are familiar with the city, then you will know that most inhabitants forego the comforts and benefits of more scenic areas in exchange for a better pay cheque. The result is a lot of clubs, bars and restaurants to allow for the expenditure of that money, so the best attraction is a bustling night life. Therefore, night clubs and bars should be a key feature of your strategy to get laid.

As for how to approach a girl, the answer lies in confidence. Brazilian girls expect to be chased; they expect men to be masculine and to take the initiative. This means you will have to approach her and take charge of the situation - maybe even be a little pushy. If you sense that she likes you, go in for the kiss within a few minutes. One of the beauties of the culture is that

Gold Diggers and Sugar Babies

São Paulo is full of hot girls looking for a mutually beneficial hookup with travellers. There are lots of girls who don’t charge by the hour but who will do anything for a guy who is willing to help them pay their bills. If you are looking for a more personal and less transactional alternative to escorts, a good place to find these sexy open-minded girls in São Paulo is SecretBenefits.

Like most countries where there is a large segment of the population living in poverty, there will be plenty of gold diggers. This can be a good or a bad thing depending on how you manage it. If you are looking for a sugar baby and you don't mind splashing out in return for a beautiful, young Latina, then there are many girls for you. You can attract this type of women without much effort by flexing bit of financial muscle at a beach, club or mall. As the girls are usually not shy, you won't have to work hard to find one. Also, Brazilian culture is flashy: people who have money use it as a status symbol and they generally showcase it with nice things such as cars, clothing and jewellery. Designer brands such as Gucci, Versace, Louis Vuitton, etc are likely to raise some eyebrows, especially because the majority of the country can't even dream of owning such items. Instead of renting a cheap car to get around in, try opting for a BMW or something similar. You will definitely attract a range of girls.

Despite the availability of girls, there is a downside. The extreme poverty in which some of these girls live can cause the to do reckless things. For example, you should be very careful of girls who try and get themselves pregnant with the goal of getting welfare from the government. They also realize that you will be forced to pay child support and most people with enough cash pay more than the legal requirement. Also, if she is willing to have sex with you in exchange for nice things, you may find that she will also try and steal from you behind your back. Brazilian women know they are beautiful and some try and use that to manipulate you into giving them money. Some will even say that they love you while doing the same thing with other men. The solution is simple: get in, get out and don't get too attached!

BDSM

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Swinger Clubs and Naturism

Sao Paulo is located in the heart of Brazil, as a result, there are no beaches or public nudist locations to visit. However, the city is diverse and caters to all kinds of nightlife scenes. Because of the legalization of prostitution, one will quickly see the many different categories of sexual entertainment on offer - a lot more relaxed than most other nations. The result is a swinging scene that is constantly busy.

There are a few notable swinging clubs to try, most of them are located in the city centre. If you are keen on getting involved, here is a shortlist of some swinger clubs in Sao Paulo:

  • Apice Club - a luxury club with a sensual touch, the Apice Club is available for the occasional swinger party. Other than that it doubles as a conventional strip club and a place to find what has been described as "the best-looking women in Brazil"
  • Code Club - This club is an out-and-out swinging location, and it is often the host of many different exciting parties. It has definitely become one of the backbones of the swinging scene in Sao Paulo.
  • Imperium Swing - from there personal description: "A place where you can fulfil all your fantasies", it's not difficult to decipher the intentions of this establishment.
  • Inner Club - for those with a more traditional concept of what swinging should look like, this club is for you. It has built up a reputation with the locals for having a similar theme every night, so you always know what to expect.
  • - Marrakesh - On the other hand, if you prefer a bit of spontaneity, then Marrakesh is the venue for you. This swinger's club is on the forefront of new ideas in the industry with their countless special events.

Costs of Living

Sao Paulo is a dangerous city in certain areas, so most of your spending choices are forced above a certain level in order to ensure safety. As stated in the "Accommodation" section, there are hostels and rooms available for little more than $5 per night; however, the surrounding area makes this an unsafe choice. If you are looking to party it up, try staying in the city centre. If you are looking for a peaceful getaway, suburban life may be more to your liking. Food is also a big factor. To save costs, avoid international cuisine; eat like the locals and you'll save a lot of money every day.

CostsDay Single traveler’s budget per day: US$40 - $500

Again, the vast difference in wealth plays a huge role in the amount you can spend. On the lower end of the scale, you can find a 1-star hotel for around $15 per day. Over and above that, you'll need another $10 to get around and approximately $15 to survive on local food and drinks. This will probably place you further away from the beach, but you will definitely save a tonne. If you are looking to go more upscale, you can spend $300 on a beachfront hotel, another $150 on food and drinks in more upmarket restaurants and $50 on getting around with Uber and seeing a few sites.

CostsAccommodation Accommodation per night: US$15 - $350

You can find accommodation for as little as $7 - a quick search on Booking.com or Airbnb will show you that. Unfortunately, these rooms and hostels are usually not in a safe area - especially for tourists. You will rather want to start your search at around $15-$20 per night, which should get you a 1-2-star hotel. Alternatively, you could go all out and book a room in a premium hotel; the price difference will be dramatic, though.

CostsBeerBottle Beer in a grocery shop: US$1 - $3

Beer is cheap in comparison to first-world prices. You can easily grab a beer in a supermarket or local store for just over $1. You'll also find this price range from vendors on busy streets and avenues. The beer is a local lager and it generally is enjoyed by most of the people that try it.

CostsBeerBar Beer in a bar or restaurant: US$1.50 - $5

Beers in bars are not much more expensive; they are more than reasonable in price. Local and international brands are available, with the local option being the cheaper choice. If you go for something like Budweiser or Corona, expect to pay a premium somewhere closer to $4 depending on where you go. Nightclubs are the most expensive; they will sometimes charge closer to $5 for a beer, especially in tourist areas.

CostsMeal Meal in a restaurant: US$5 - $50

Food prices vary depending on what and where you eat. If you are looking to dine at a hotel or a restaurant in a tourist district, your price will increase substantially. However, local food provides a cheap and tasty alternative to the expensive restaurants waiting for international customers. A Big Mac, for reference, costs around $5.50 depending on the exchange rate. To show how much of a variable food is in a budget, the Brazilian Big Mac is the fourth most expensive in the world.

Food Truck in Sao Paulo

Accommodation

Due to the massive gap in wealth, there is an accommodation offering for everyone. If all you are looking for is a room, then you can find a hostel for not much more than $5. These are clean, fairly well managed and a simple place in which you can rest your head every night.

On the other end of the scale, you can find luxury hotels for around $450 a night, such as the Hotel Fasano in the city centre. However,3-5 star hotels will cost you anywhere from $40-$500.

The trouble with Sao Paulo is its size. This translates into a an area that has multiple districts for pickups and meeting girls. Thus, there is no one answer as to where the best accommodation is, but there are still a few basic guidelines to follow.

Firstly, stay clear of favelas and poorer areas. You may even find a nice house in these areas, but the crime rates are definitely a worry. Asa result, you should rather stay out of the following locations:

  • Pari
  • Perdizes
  • Lapa

Apart from these, you can generally tell whether a neighbourhood is safe to stay in by the level of wealth. Make no mistake, Sao Paulo is a dangerous city and you definitely do not want to get involved in any sort of gang-related violence - whether in the crossfire or a direct target of it. Generally, you will want to spend at least $15-20 on a respectable 2-star hotel. This should afford you a reasonably safe location in which you can relax without stressing about your valuables being stolen.

Grande Hotel, Sao Paulo

Airbnb is a viable option if you are looking to book a house or villa in a safe neighbourhood. Just remember to consider the safety of the area before booking. Don't just look at the cost; often the cheapest option is that cheap for a reason You can also search booking.com for a number of options. It provides a nice mix of hostels, hotels, houses and villas.

How to Get There and Move Around

Getting around in Sao Paulo is difficult by car, mainly because of the traffic and congestion at certain times. Public transport is not only quicker, but it is also much cheaper. As a result, you can easily survive on just $2-5 on transport every day.

By air: Guarulhos International Airport is the major airport in Sao Paulo.

Guarulhos International Airport

Although the city is so large that it has another international airport 50 miles outside the city centre: Viracopos International Airport. The airport is state-of-the-art. It has all the bells and whistles one would expect from an international airport, such as lounges, large retail spaces and many busy restaurants.

Viracopos International Airport

By bus: The bus system of Sao Paulo used to be chaotic and severely unimpressive. However, the government has cracked down on unlicensed drivers, forcing them and their vehicles to comply with strict regulations. Over and above this, the City has created a "Bus Rapid Transit System", making getting from A to B very efficient.

Busses run constantly throughout the day and they connect to rail stations, so if you come to Sao Paulo and hope to rely on public transport, it is definitely a viable strategy - just avoid unknown areas and late-night trips.

Buses in Sao Paulo

By car: A major problem in Sao Paulo is traffic. The city is densely populated, which can cause huge traffic jams that may cost you hours of your time on the road. Navigation is also an issue, especially if you do not know which areas are safe and which ones aren't. The fact that most taxi drivers only speak Portuguese doesn't help as well. They also turn out to be very expensive.

Traffic situation in Sao Paulo

Uber is a good option, as it solves the problem of navigation and language barriers; however, due to strife with the local metered taxis, they will often stay clear of the airports, so you may need an alternative option when you arrive and when you leave the city. Uber is also cheap when compared to taxis.


By train: The train system in Sao Paulo is quite impressive. In fact, all of the major cities in Brazil boast exceptional train facilities. The reason is largely due to the rail being privately owned by a few companies; the competition keeps trains running efficiently, safely and comfortably.

If you decide to take the metro, you can pretty much get to any district of the city. A single ride costs about $1 - it's quick, cheap, easy and safe!

Metro Train

By Helicopter: Helicopter trips are not that uncommon in Sao Paulo. In fact, the city has the largest helicopter traffic in the world. Although more for the wealthy elites of the area, it was designed as an escape from the heavy traffic and criminal targeting of stationary vehicles. In fact, Uber is getting into the helicopter market, with trips starting at $120.

Helicopter

Visas: Brazil's visa policy is fairly relaxed when it comes to most Western countries. European nations are allowed visa-free entry for a certain number of days - you will have to check depending on your country. North American nations are allowed entry only after applying for an online visa, which is a quick and easy process. The rest of South America need only bring their ID, after which they will be allowed instant access. Most third-world countries are required to register for a visa in person; again, check Brazil's requirements for your specific country to avoid confusion and disappointment.

Digital Nomads and Remote Work

If you are looking to work in Sao Paulo, there are plenty of options available. Foreign workers looking for a job in Sao Paulo are on the right track, as they are seeking to tap into one of the largest economies of Latin America. English alone is a powerful tool, and there is much to do surrounding the language. Without a working visa, you could do simple jobs such as translating, writing content, tutoring and communication-based tasks.

If you are looking for a more long-term position, there are a few steps you need to follow. Firstly, make sure you have your working visa in order. You'll probably want to start the application process well before you arrive in Brazil. As the economy is fairly large, you can begin by applying online or sending your resume on corporate web sites. You will get called to an interview or two, and the rest is up to you.

Sao Paulo is a huge city. What's more it is extremely dense, resulting in many different industries throughout the area. If you are a professional with multiple years of experience, there will definitely be a job for you, especially within large, multinational companies that need English on a daily basis. You may find the usual professions here and a few more - due to the legalization of certain non-mainstream industries like prostitution. Those with a working visa who are simply looking for a simple job to cover a few drinks on the weekend may find working at a restaurant or in the soccer industry to be quite fun and rewarding.

Internet and Mobile Operators

Brazil as a whole suffers from a lack of landline infrastructure. The result is a poor traditional telephone service that has been sufficiently filled with excellent mobile service providers. Thus, any of the four major providers which you choose will offer excellent service and a reliable connection throughout the city.

  • Vivo
  • TIM
  • Claro
  • Oi

In order to access these networks, you simply need to purchase a sim card and plug it into your phone. Alternatively, you can purchase a data plan and use the sim inside a hotspot device; just make sure that you are connected at all times. Places to purchase sims include local stores, supermarkets and electronic goods outlets.

Gambling and Casinos

Sao Paulo is a bustling city that is famed for its festivities, night life and enticing pastimes. However, if you are looking for a place to gamble or place a few bets, then the whole of Brazil is not the best location for you. Gambling is illegal in Brazil and the consequences are fairly harsh, so avoid getting yourself involved in the industry. However, There are still some casinos operating in Brazil. Six to be exact. One of them which is a jockey club is located in Sao Paulo and it is called Jockey Club De.

Jockey Club De

Should you still want to participate, there are a few ways to circumvent the law. As anyone will tell you, football is a religion in all of Brazil. As a result, bets are constantly flowing around the world's most popular game. Most of these bets are amongst a private group, so finding such people is your best option.

On a slightly riskier note, you can take gambling to the web. There are plenty of sites for you to access if you are really bent on gambling. The laws concerning such acts have changed on many occasions, so it's best to find out before you engage in any form of online gaming. Be safe and don't do anything risky.

Because of the large scale of the city, there are many black-market gambling locations; however, these are constantly on the move and very secretive. You will need to find someone who can get you inside; however, beware of gang-related activity, as they are people you do not want to get involved with.

Weed and Drugs

When it comes to drugs, Brazil is really in the centre of the world's eye. Most of the drugs are either home-grown or produced in Columbia and transported through the smuggling of powerful gangs.

Most drugs such as weed and cocaine are sold commonly on the streets of favelas and certain parts of town. These are somewhat cheap - weed for example sells at around R$5 per gram. Do not approach someone on the street randomly; you don't know how dangerous they are or if they'll rip you off. Instead, approach a local and ask him/her to buy you a hit instead. If you find yourself in a location where there are plenty of drugs commonly available, you may be in physical danger. The drug industry is closely controlled by gang members in the city and the homicide rate of Sao Paulo is no joke!

Cocaine is also commonly available in Rio. In Brazil, it is as common as sand. However, much like weed, you will only find poor strains of the drug available on the street. In order to purchase better varieties, you will need a contact or two; however this comes with certain complications.

When getting involved in drugs, there are two things you want to keep in mind. The first involves the law. If you are caught in possession, the laws are more of a nuisance than anything else; you will probably face a period of education about drugs and some community service. Secondly, the drug industry is closely controlled by some of the world's most powerful gangs, two of the largest being the PCC and the Comandos. Be careful not to get too involved in the industry or to go into certain areas of the favelas. Here, one would find large-scale violence and gang-related crime.

Health, Fitness, Gyms and Massage

The Brazilian fitness industry is flourishing. It is second in the world, only behind the United States regarding the amount of gyms in operation. The desire to be out and about and to enjoy one's body on the picturesque beaches of Rio is definitely a dynamic factor in the land of Brazil. So, if you are looking for a good workout - or a place to meet some fit girls - there are four main gyms you need to try.

  • BioRitmo/SmartFit - the largest gym franchise in the country, this chain provides customers with state-of-the-art gym equipment at affordable prices. As it is the most popular option, you probably want to try the closest branch to you. You can work up a sweat at a reasonable cost - and perhaps meet a few cute girls along the way.
  • Bodytech - a gym that caters more to those seeking a fitness club rather than just a simple hardcore gym. If you are into racquet sports and more social activities that are still active, this is definitely the place for you. Who knows, it could even be the location for a fitness date.
  • Cia Athletica - this is one of the oldest gyms in Brazil, a favourite of the people for more than thirty years. It is nothing more than a basic gym. You'll get the same old workout at a reasonable price, but it's definitely a good option if you find one near you.
  • Runner - Although this franchise is concentrated in the Sao Paulo region, there is a reason why this gym has been so successful in the rest of the country for over thirty years: it is fun, modern and definitely catchy with a younger demographic.

Spas are also a good way to relax. If you are looking for a massage, the first place you may want to try is a local hotel - maybe even the one you are staying in. If you really want to take your spa treatment to the next level, try one of these popular spas in Sau Paulo. They are located in the heart of the city and they're sure to leave you feeling relaxed.

  • Olimpia Spa
  • Kennzur Spa
  • Doux Spa
  • Amanary Spa

STDs and HIV

Like most developing nations, Brazil also faces the struggle with HIV and AIDS. Although the disease is more common in poorer areas where sexual education and the dangers of STDs is not nearly as common, there are still several risk factors for visitors. As a national stance, the country has not illegalized prostitution, meaning that the diseases and viruses are often carried by sex workers. As a result, HIV and STDS are often spread in this way. The government has sought to remove this as a factor in the industry by providing workers with condoms and education on the importance of hygiene.

If you meet a girl in a club or any other location, it is important to use a condom. Before having sex, you should have at least a few on hand. Buying condoms is easy; they're available everywhere and it's cheap thanks to government subsidies. Also, girls from poorer areas are more likely to have an STD; she might not even be aware herself.

If, for some reason, you have unprotected sex, you can visit one of the local clinics for a check-up. If they detect the presence of a harmful virus, they will give you anti-retro viral drugs. These drugs are your best chance if you have come into contact with an STD and they're FREE!

Stay Safe

São Paulo, which was once one of the most violent cities of Brazil, has managed to drastically reduce crime during the 2000s. According to the Sangari Institute, São Paulo was the safest capital city of Brazil in 2011, in terms of homicide rate.

Unfortunately, that doesn't mean that a visitor can really relax about safety, because São Paulo is simply too large and diverse to be described by average statistics. In fact, two of the most visited areas, Downtown and the Pinheiros subprefecture (in the West), have respectively 150% and 50% more violent crime than the city average. It is recommended that you always be careful and take all the necessary precautions. Avoid any shade exchanges and take care of your belongings.

See Also