Discovering Brazil: Journey with Krisley!

Welcome to “Exploring Brazil with Krisely.” Join us as we delve into fascinating facts about this beautiful country. Were you aware that Brazil experiences summer from December to March?

Meet Krisley!

 Oi!! Meu nome é Krisley Mendes e sou estudante do Programa de Cultura e Inglês Intensivo (CIEP) da University of Northern Iowa por oito semanas.Durante os meses de agosto e setembro, assisti aulas presenciais no campus da UNI e agora tenho aulas online estando no Brasil. Nasci e cresci no Brasil, onde o português é a única língua oficial.Decidi cursar o CIEP para aprimorar o inglês que aprendi nas escolas brasileiras. Terminei meu doutorado em Economia há alguns anos e me tornei professora da Universidade de Brasília.Voltar a ser estudante na UNI tem sido uma experiência rica e recompensadora para mim.

 Hi!! My name is Krisley Mendes, and I am a student in the Culture and Intensive English Program (CIEP) at the University of Northern Iowa for eight weeks. During the months of August and September, I attended classes in person on the UNI campus and now I have been attending online classes from Brazil. I was born and raised in Brazil, where Portuguese is the only official language. I decided to attend CIEP to improve the English I learned in Brazilian schools. I finished my PhD in Economics a few years ago and became a professor at the University of Brasília. Returning to being a student at UNI has been a rich and rewarding experience for me.

Krisley Mendes – Professor at University of Brasília 

Where is Brazil located?

Brazil is located in South America, covering a vast area in the eastern part of the continent. It is the largest country in South America and shares borders with several countries. Including Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela. It is known for its diverse landscapes. Including the Amazon Rainforest, extensive coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, and the famous Amazon River.

Before delving deeper into Brazil, let’s introduce you to Krisley’s wonderful family;

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, also known as Rio, serves as the capital of the state of Rio de Janeiro.Brazil’s third-most-populous state. Moreover, it ranks as the second-most-populous city in Brazil. Its name, Rio de Janeiro, translates to “River of January” in Portuguese.

The iconic statue in Rio de Janeiro is called “Christ the Redeemer.” It represents Jesus Christ with outstretched arms, symbolizing peace and the idea of Christ’s role as a savior. The statue, which stands atop Corcovado Mountain, is a symbol of Christianity. Is one of the most famous landmarks in Brazil and the world. It also serves as a symbol of Rio de Janeiro itself and is a significant cultural and religious icon.

Foz do Iguacu

Foz do Iguaçu, also known as the “Iguazu River Mouth. A Brazilian city situated along the border of the stunning Iguaçu Falls. This city holds the rank of being the seventh largest in the state of Paraná. The Iguaçu Falls, found at the border shared by Argentina and Brazil, encompass around 257 distinct waterfalls. Have earned the prestigious title of one of the “New Natural Seven Wonders of the World.

Sao Paulo

São Paulo stands as the most populous city in Brazil. Serves as the capital of the state of São Paulo. It’s worth noting that São Paulo is the most populous city globally outside of Asia. And ranks as the fourth-largest city by population when considering its city limits.

Florianopolis

Florianópolis, located in the South region of Brazil. Holds the distinction of being the capital and the second largest city in the state of Santa Catarina. The city encompasses Santa Catarina Island, along with several smaller surrounding islands, as well as a portion of the mainland.

Traditional food of Brazil

Moqueca a Brazilian seafood stew featuring a base of palm oil and coconut milk or olive oil. It can be combined with fish, shrimp, or both. This dish is traditionally cooked in clay pots with vegetables and herbs, and it’s commonly served over rice. Its origins date back to 300 years ago. Influenced by Portuguese introduction of coconuts and African slaves introducing palm oil to Brazilian cuisine.

Traditional Costumes

Brazil doesn’t have a single national costume. But rather an array of traditional attire from various regions across the vast country. These folk garments have historically provided people with a sense of identity, belonging. They often reflect one’s societal status, with distinct clothing for the elite and contrasting attire for rural and peasant communities.

Festivals in Brazil

1) Festas Juninas

Festa Junina, a Catholic festival in Brazil. A joyful celebration that pays homage to the harvest and the revered saints: Anthony, John, and Peter. This lively festival is characterized by an array of customs. As vibrant costumes, bonfires, fireworks, dances, and games, each with its own regional and cultural nuances. The food and beverages served during Festa Junina revolve around seasonal crops like corn, peanuts, and cassava. Guests can indulge in a delectable spread of cakes, pies, soups, and mulled wine. All add to the festive spirit of the occasion.

2) Parintins Folklore Festival

The Parintins Folklore Festival, also known as the Festival do Boi-Bumbá. A beloved and vibrant annual event that takes place over three days in late June. Held in the Brazilian city of Parintins, located in the heart of the Amazonas region. This festival ranks among the largest and most popular annual celebrations in Brazil.

3) Carnaval

Carnival is Brazil’s most celebrated holiday and has grown into an enormous event. The Carnival of Brazil is an annual festival that kicks off on the Friday afternoon just before Ash Wednesday. Marking the commencement of Lent—a 40-day period leading up to Easter.

Traditional arts and crafts

Fun Facts about Brazil

• Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world by area and population.
• Brazil has the largest rainforest in the world, the Amazon, which covers about 60% of its territory.
• Brazil is the only country in the Americas that speaks Portuguese as its official language.
• Brazil has won the FIFA World Cup five times, more than any other country.
• Brazil is home to the largest carnival in the world, which attracts millions of people every year.
• Winter time in Brazil is from May to August.

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