The Global Experience: São Paulo, Brazil

Aerial view of Sao Palo, Brazil.

by Melissa Reif '13

One thing I learned early on in my semester abroad is that there is no one "Brazil." The Brazil I experienced living for a month in Salvador, Bahia, was filled with sun, sand and a vibrant Afro-Brazilian tradition, whereas the Brazil I experienced in São Paulo was urban, felt like New York City and isn't located near the ocean.

As I traveled, I experienced more of the diversity that Brazil has to offer: Ipanema Beach and Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, the preserved colonial architecture in Paraty, the rich history in Minas Gerais. This semester opened my eyes to all that Brazil has to offer, and I can only hope to return soon.

Published February 13, 2013