Expat Advice: Culture Shock in São Paulo, Brazil

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

São Paulo

Did you receive any cross-cultural training for your move abroad? If yes, was it before or after the move?

No

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Oliveira Lawyers

Oliveira Lawyers is the foremost Brazilian law firm dedicated to representing the interests of foreign citizens in Brazil. From immigration to real estate and other life events, our bilingual attorneys got you covered! Main services include immigration, real estate, notary services, tax services, collections, family law, and litigation.
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If they speak another language in your new country, do you speak the language? If yes, did you learn the language before you moved or while abroad? If no, are you planning to learn the language?

I speak a little Portuguese, and I did not learn before coming here.

Were you worried or concerned about culture shock before you moved abroad?

Yes

How significant was the culture shock you experienced when you moved abroad?

VERY SIGNIFICANT

Expats often talk about going through the "stages of culture shock." Examples include the honeymoon phase, the irritation-to-anger stage, the rejection of the culture stage, and the cultural adjustment phase. Do you feel like you went through these or any other stages as you settled into the new culture?

I am currently in the "rejection of the culture" stage... moving rapidly to the "cultural adjustment" phase.

What, if any, were some of the changes you noticed in yourself that might have been caused by culture shock? These might include things such as anger, depression, anxiety, increased eating or drinking, frustration, homesickness, etc.

Depression, frustration

What are some things you appreciate most about the new culture?

Beauty of the country and friendliness of the people.

What are the most challenging aspects of the new culture?

The people - in general - are not very honest... you have to watch your back in almost all transactions. Plus, the people are lazy and do not do very good work. Plus, everything takes forever... terrible bureaucracy.

Do you have any advice or thoughts about culture shock you would like to share?

Listen to the advice of others who have been through your situation.