I spent two unforgettable days in São Paulo, Brazil. This vibrant city is a stunning blend of modern skyscrapers, lush greenery, efficient transportation, and surprisingly affordable prices. São Paulo is a welcoming and livable metropolis where inclusivity thrives. Even though there are some homeless individuals on the streets, their presence does not overshadow the city’s charm.
During my stay, I checked into the luxurious Wyndham Hotel located in the heart of the city. There, I crossed paths with several groups of Chinese business travelers, all of whom seemed to be zeroing in on the promising South American market.
1. **Transportation**: Uber rides in São Paulo are incredibly cheap and convenient—often even more affordable than in other South American countries. Surprisingly, a ride spanning just a few kilometers can cost as little as 10 RMB, comparable to what you’d find in China. The cars here are predominantly compact, much like in Europe, with plenty of hatchbacks zipping through the streets. This preference for smaller vehicles plays a significant role in keeping traffic congestion at bay.
2. **Food**: Dining in São Paulo is a delightfully budget-friendly experience. At the bustling shopping center on Paulista Avenue, an array of restaurants awaits, offering buffet meals priced between 35-50 RMB. These buffets boast an impressive selection of dishes, including salads, chicken, fish, beef, colorful beans, fresh vegetables, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and fried bananas.
You can pile your plate high with as much food as your heart desires! However, it’s worth noting that the salads and vegetables aren’t always as fresh as one might hope.
For a more upscale dining experience, I visited EMPORIO FIGUEIRA, a sophisticated restaurant where a 15% service charge is customary. Here, I indulged in an extravagant meal that set me back nearly 400 RMB per person. For coffee lovers, a Grande Americano at Starbucks will only set you back about 20 RMB—a steal!
3. **Art and Culture**: No trip to São Paulo would be complete without a visit to Beco do Batman, the city’s iconic graffiti alley. The walls here are adorned with vibrant and thought-provoking murals, creating a lively atmosphere. Street vendors sell handmade crafts, and their eclectic fashion choices add to the bohemian vibe. While exploring, I stumbled upon a group of runners dressed in eye-catching pink outfits, adding a playful touch to the scene.
At one of the local bars in the alley, I savored two of São Paulo’s signature cocktails, the Caipirinha. Made with cachaça, lime, ice, and sugar, these refreshing drinks were priced at only 30 Brazilian reais (approximately 18 RMB per glass). At first, I thought the waiter had made a mistake, but it was indeed the correct price. It was the most affordable special cocktail I encountered during my travels across South America.
4. **Religious Heritage**: My visit to the majestic São Paulo Cathedral (Catedral da Sé de São Paulo) was nothing short of awe-inspiring. In the early morning, the area around the cathedral appeared serene, with only a handful of homeless individuals scattered in various corners, enjoying boxed meals likely provided by charitable organizations. Several police cars were parked nearby, ensuring security with a noticeable police presence.
5. **Shopping and Sightseeing**: A stroll down Paulista Avenue was a must-do activity. While visiting a few stores along the avenue, I found myself slightly underwhelmed—it didn’t seem to be a hotspot for local shoppers. Still, I couldn’t resist stopping by the historic 1000th McDonald’s store for an affordable buffet meal.
During the Carnival holiday (February 28 – March 8), armed police officers stood guard at numerous street corners, maintaining order amidst the festive chaos. The streets came alive with people dressed in eccentric and daring outfits. Locals have a distinct preference for revealing clothing, which may not align with everyone’s tastes. São Paulo also boasts a large community of openly expressive men, offering a truly eye-opening cultural experience.
São Paulo left an indelible mark on me, blending urban sophistication with artistic flair and cultural richness.
