Bonito: Brazil's Natural Aquatic Wonderland

• HelloOlá
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeTchau
  [chow]
• YesSim
  [seem]
• NoNão
  [now]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [pohr fah-vohr/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youObrigado/a
  [oh-bree-gah-doh/ah]
• Excuse me/SorryCom licença/Desculpe
  [kohm lee-sen-sah/dehs-kool-peh]
• How are you?Como vai?
  [koh-moh vah-ee?]
• Fine. And you?Bem. E você?
  [behn. eh voh-seh?]
• Do you speak English?Você fala inglês?
  [voh-seh fah-lah een-glehsh?]
• I don't understandEu não entendo
  [eh-oo now en-ten-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEu gostaria de ver o cardápio, por favor
  [eh-oo goh-stah-ree-ah deh vehr oh kahr-dah-pyoh, pohr fah-vohr]
• I don't eat meatEu não como carne
  [eh-oo now koh-moh kahr-nee]
• Cheers!Saúde!
  [sah-oo-deh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseEu gostaria de pagar, por favor
  [eh-oo goh-stah-ree-ah deh pah-gahr, pohr fah-vohr]

• Help!Socorro!
  [soh-koh-roh]
• Go away!Vá embora!
  [vah ehm-boh-rah]
• Call the Police!Chame a Polícia!
  [shah-meh ah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!Chame um médico!
  [shah-meh oom meh-dee-koh]
• I'm lostEstou perdido/a
  [eh-stoh pehr-dee-doh/ah]
• I'm illEstou doente
  [eh-stoh doo-en-teh]

• I'd like to buy...Eu gostaria de comprar...
  [eh-oo goh-stah-ree-ah deh kohm-prahr...]
• I'm just lookingEstou só olhando
  [eh-stoh soh oh-lhahn-doh]
• How much is it?Quanto custa?
  [kwan-toh koos-tah?]
• That's too expensiveIsso é muito caro
  [ee-soh eh moo-ee-toh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?Você pode baixar o preço?
  [voh-seh poh-deh bahy-shahr oh preh-soh?]

• What time is it?Que horas são?
  [keh oh-rahs sah-oo?]
• It's one o'clockÉ uma hora
  [eh oo-mah oh-rah]
• Half past (10)Meio-dia (10 horas)
  [meh-oo-jee-ah (deez oh-rahs)]
• MorningManhã
  [mah-nyah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-dee]
• EveningNoite
  [noy-chee]
• YesterdayOntem
  [ohn-tehm]
• TodayHoje
  [oh-zhee]
• TomorrowAmanhã
  [ah-mahn-yah]
• 1Um
  [oom]
• 2Dois
  [doh-ees]
• 3Três
  [trehs]
• 4Quatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Sete
  [seh-teh]
• 8Oito
  [oy-toh]
• 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
• 10Dez
  [dehz]

• Where's a/the...?Onde fica o/a...?
  [ohn-deh fee-kah oh/ah...?]
• What's the address?Qual é o endereço?
  [kwahl eh oh ehn-deh-reh-soh?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Você pode me mostrar (no mapa)?
  [voh-seh poh-deh meh moh-strahr (noo mah-pah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando é o próximo (ônibus)?
  [kwan-doh eh oh proh-ksee-moh (oh-nee-boos)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Um bilhete (para ....)
  [oom beel-yeh-teh (pah-rah ....)]

Long before European settlers arrived, the region around Bonito was inhabited by indigenous tribes such as the Guarani-Kaiowá. These indigenous peoples lived in harmony with nature, using sustainable methods for hunting, fishing, and agriculture. Their deep spiritual connection to the land is still evident in the region's cultural practices and environmental stewardship.

The arrival of Portuguese colonizers in the 16th century marked a significant shift in the region's history. The colonizers sought to exploit the land for its natural resources, leading to the displacement and marginalization of indigenous communities. The colonial period also saw the introduction of new agricultural practices and the establishment of cattle ranching, which would become a cornerstone of the local economy.

Bonito was officially founded on October 2, 1948. The town's name, which means 'beautiful' in Portuguese, is a testament to the stunning natural landscapes that define the area. Initially, Bonito was a modest settlement centered around agriculture and cattle ranching, but its natural beauty soon began attracting attention from outside visitors.

In the late 20th century, Bonito experienced a tourism boom as word spread about its crystal-clear rivers, limestone caves, and rich biodiversity. The town quickly became a premier ecotourism destination, drawing visitors from around the world. This period saw significant investments in infrastructure and the development of sustainable tourism practices to preserve the region's natural wonders.

Bonito's commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation has earned it numerous accolades. The town has been recognized as one of the best ecotourism destinations globally, receiving awards for its efforts in preserving its unique ecosystems. This recognition has further solidified Bonito's status as a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Bonito is not just about natural beauty; it also boasts a rich cultural heritage. The town hosts various festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from traditional music and dance to local cuisine. Events like the Festival de Inverno de Bonito (Bonito Winter Festival) showcase the vibrant cultural tapestry of the region, attracting artists and visitors alike.

Bonito is located in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The nearest major airport is Campo Grande International Airport (CGR), approximately 300 kilometers away. From Campo Grande, you can take a bus, which typically takes about 4-5 hours, or rent a car for a more flexible journey. Some tour operators also offer direct transfers from the airport to Bonito.

Once in Bonito, getting around is relatively easy. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available, though renting a car can give you more freedom to explore at your own pace. Many of the attractions are spread out, so having a vehicle can be advantageous. Additionally, guided tours often provide transportation to and from various sites.

The official currency in Brazil is the Brazilian Real (BRL). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Bonito, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments or remote areas. ATMs are available in the town, but be mindful of withdrawal limits and fees.

Bonito is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Bonito, but staying vigilant is always recommended.

In case of an emergency, dial 190 for police assistance, 192 for medical emergencies, and 193 for the fire department. Bonito has a local hospital and several clinics that can handle minor health issues. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or flashy accessories. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bom dia' (Good morning) or 'Boa tarde' (Good afternoon). A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as 'piranha soup' and 'jacaré' (alligator). Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Bonito like a local, visit the local farmers' markets where you can buy fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with the locals, who are generally friendly and eager to share their knowledge about the area. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Bonito, including its famous crystal-clear rivers, caves, and waterfalls. Consider joining a sustainable tourism project to learn more about the local environment and conservation efforts.