I have qualifications to teach English and by the time I plan to go I would also have an arts degree. I have friends there too in Recife and Sao Paulo. Is it a safe place? I have heard there is poverty and as a result pick pocketers and people stealing etc. Would I be able to go out by myself at night or even during the day? Has anyone else ever taught english there or just gone for a year or so? I don't speak Portuguese but am guessing I would pick it up, or should I learn it first? There are a lot of questions there sorry but any input would be appriciated! Thanks
Other - Brazil - 6 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
It might be a good idea to learn Portuguese.As far as going out at night by yourself.I don't think so.The people are very hospitable,kind lots of good qualities but crime is pretty bad. Drivers are risk takers.My stepmother lives in Aracaju,Sergipe in the North.Poverty is there,less than adequate sewer systems.Big change from Australia.
2 :
you are going to stand out and possibly get raped
3 :
Hi, Charlotte. I live in Recife and have lived i São Paulo for a short period, so I'll try my best to answer at least some of your questions. Unfortunately, Recife AND São Paulo are not known as "safe" places to live. As ANY large city, they have social problems that result in crime. There are pick pocketers, muggers and thieves, just like any other large urban center. São Paulo is MUCH bigger than Recife, thus it has more jobs opportunities. I've lived in Recife all my life (I'm 38) and got robed once (a couple of kids took my cell phone). I go out at night by myself but I do prefer to have company, it IS safer. All you have to do really is use some common sense and avoid danger. I did teach English for a while when I was in college, and it doesn't pay very well. There are, however, numerous language schools and I know some people who have private classes or group classes at their homes (that pays a little better, but you take on all the risk of the business). Believe me, Portuguese is not the kind of language you "pick up", so I think you should at least learn the basic ahead of coming, so you won't be so dependent on local people to get around. People here are very friendly toward foreigners and love to help, myself included, so, if you'd like to e-mail me for further information: quindim98@yahoo.com
4 :
You should go over there and find out by yourself, it's your life and your future, you need to see it and get your own opinion about the place.
5 :
You should learn some Portuguese before you go, because not many people there can really speak it. If you are going to Recife or São Paulo, I would recommend being careful all the time, and even that way you won't be 100% safe. They are two of the most dangerous cities of Brazil, and I know lots of people who used to live there and moved because of it. So be careful!
6 :
Learn some Portuguese. If you can choose, come to São Paulo. You'll find a job teaching English as a native but it could take some time till you find one. As long as you use your common sense, security won't be a problem.
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