I’ve been cooking a series of blog posts reflecting on the things that Brazil has taught me. Not sure exactly how many parts it will have, but the purpose is to share some of the ways in which Brazil has left its mark on me.

Living in a place for 7 years is bound to change you, no matter the place, but Brazil is very special. The people are very kind and welcoming. The weather here is the weather in heaven–rarely goes below 50F or above 90F. The food is amazing, due to the mix of cultures that make up Brazil’s ethnic heritage, but also because everything grows here in this lush tropical country.

Among the foreign hire teachers at my school, there’s a common refrain: Brazil is hard to leave. It’s so true. My hope is to spend the next few posts sharing some of the reasons for that phenomenon. Brazil has left its mark on my heart (and on my skin!) and I intend to compose some odes how it has shaped my perspective.

The first one is about Brazilian beaches. You know how in English we say “Happy Friday!” or “Merry Christmas”? Well, Brazilians tend to wish you well on more than just holidays or Fridays. When you go to the beach, people will wish you a “Boa praia” which is like saying “Happy beaching!” or “We wish you a merry beach day.” Beaches here are a way of life, a temple, a sanctuary. Look for that post in the next day.