About

I'm Rodrigo, a Brazilian local based in São Paulo. I created BrazilDecoded after noticing a pattern: foreign visitors arriving in Brazil either overly scared or completely unprepared — because most travel content about Brazil falls into two extremes. It either exaggerates danger or ignores real daily-life challenges. I'm not a travel influencer. I don't work for a tourism agency. I'm someone who lives here, navigates this city daily, and understands how Brazil actually works from the inside. This blog exists to close that gap — with calm, honest, and practical information for first-time visitors who want to experience Brazil with confidence, not anxiety. What you'll find here:

How safety actually works in tourist areas How locals handle money, transport, and daily situations Cultural habits that most tourists get wrong Practical tips based on real experience, not stereotypes

If you're planning your first trip to Brazil, start with the Free Starter Kit — a short PDF with the essentials to get you prepared in minutes.