Language problems...

Language problems ?

One of the biggest problems in Brazil is the language. 
In Brazil they speak portuguese, and very few in restaurants, bars, supermarkets, post offices, police, federal offices and businesses speak english. One reason is that most music and television programs are Brazilian or synchronized to portuguese. Once you talk with more educated people they speak english. But the problem is all the day-to-day issues.
Of course this is a great way for foreigners moving here, because your portuguese language skills will improve much faster. The Brazilians have more patience and are willing to help, even with a smile (this is not as common in Europe in general, France especially).

Problems can occur once you have to:
- apply for your CPF no. (personal no.)
- extension of tourist visa, local driver license
- going to the hospital or 
- if you have to talk with the police  (for some reason)
they usually don't speak english!
(Meeting people on the street and try to communicate can be fun...)

In Denmark, where I am from, we have lots of english/american music and no synchronization of television programs. This helps the danes speak english better, but also not optimal for foreigners in DK to learn danish.

So, I guess there are some challengers.... foreigners coming to Brazil (especially with the coming World Cup 2014 and the Olympics in 2016 Rio de Janeiro) and for Brazilians moving abroad. 
Millions of tourists are coming to Brazil the coming years, especially for the sports events, but also because of all the media coverage that will focus on Brazil. The local restaurants, bars, shops, supermarkets etc. can benefit (and improve sales) if they learn some english. All the tourists must be aware of this language issue... so if you are going be aware and prepared!

With all this attention on Brazil (with the growing economy) foreign companies that want to invest here on to export to Brazil will have issues like:
- import costums
- authorities approval
- distributions
- banks
- investments
many authorities do not speak english!

For the Brazilians that are going to study or travel abroad, you will have great benefits of knowing some english in advance. Not that many people around the world speak portuguese (or spanish), neither at authorities or hospitals. 

The missing language can give you many difficulties, but stepping one step closer to each other, and you will both benefit greatly !

So.... if you should have any questions or if you need some help with translation of want to know more of both portuguese and english language or cultural differences - I can help you !!