At the end of May, I found myself in Brazil—a time when tourism is typically at its quietest. For most travelers heading to Brazil, the journey begins in São Paulo, specifically at Guarulhos Airport.
**Phone SIM Card:** To use a Brazilian SIM card, you need a local tax number. Since that wasn’t an option for me, I stuck with international roaming through my mobile provider. It worked seamlessly and saved me from any hassle.
**Currency Exchange:** The exchange rates in Brazil can be a bit disappointing. However, exchanging around 100 reais at the airport should suffice for initial expenses. Fortunately, credit cards are widely accepted across the country, making it easy to rely on them for larger purchases.
**Airport Transportation:** While taxis are often recommended, there’s also public transport available from Guarulhos Airport. Most international flights land at Terminal 3, but you’ll first need to head to Terminal 2. From there, a free shuttle bus takes you directly to the metro station. Once onboard the metro, you can reach downtown São Paulo for under 5 reais—an affordable and efficient way to start your trip.
**Airport Hotels:** All the nearby hotels are conveniently located close to the metro station. Simply hop on the free shuttle bus to reach them. The area surrounding these hotels is relatively safe and quiet, offering a peaceful respite after a long flight.
**City Transportation:** São Paulo’s metro system is both reliable and extensive, covering nearly every corner of the city. If you prefer taxis, apps like DIDI or Uber make it simple to book rides at reasonable prices.
**Sights in São Paulo:** While São Paulo isn’t brimming with tourist attractions, there are a couple of must-sees. The majestic São Paulo Cathedral is easily accessible via the Se metro station, which drops you right at its doorstep. Just a short 500-meter stroll away lies the vibrant Japanese district, where culture and cuisine come alive. Be mindful, though—the district can get crowded, so keep an eye out for pickpockets.
**Safety:** Near the cathedral, you’ll encounter many homeless individuals, but the presence of numerous police officers ensures a sense of security. Still, exercise caution, especially in bustling areas like the Japanese district, where petty theft occasionally occurs.
**Accommodation:** For a lively stay, consider Rua Augusta. This street buzzes with energy and offers a welcoming atmosphere without too much foot traffic. That said, always remain vigilant about pickpockets, even in popular neighborhoods.
**Google Maps:** In Brazil, Google Maps provides remarkably accurate information about public transportation routes. Trust it to guide you smoothly through your travels.
**Airports in São Paulo:** The city boasts four airports—two smaller ones closer to the center, Guarulhos (the main hub), and Viracopos, which is the least convenient due to its location 80 kilometers away from São Paulo. When booking your flight, be sure to double-check which airport you’re flying into or out of.
That wraps up my São Paulo experience! Next time, I’ll share more about Manaus. Stay tuned!
