Brasília: The Modernist Marvel of Brazil

• HelloOlá
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeTchau
  [chow]
• YesSim
  [seem]
• NoNão
  [now]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [pohr fa-vohr/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youObrigado
  [oh-bree-gah-doh]
• Excuse me/SorryCom licença/Desculpe
  [kohm lee-sen-sah/deh-skool-peh]
• How are you?Como vai?
  [koh-moh vai]
• Fine. And you?Bem. E você?
  [behn. eh voh-seh]
• Do you speak English?Você fala inglês?
  [voh-seh fah-lah een-glehss]
• 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 oo cahr-dah-pee-oh, pohr fa-vohr]
• I don't eat meatEu não como carne
  [eh-oo now koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Saúde!
  [sow-deh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseEu gostaria de pagar, por favor
  [eh-oo goh-stah-ree-ah deh pah-gahr, pohr fa-vohr]

• Help!Socorro!
  [soh-koh-rroh]
• 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
  [eh-stoh pehr-dee-doh]
• I'm illEstou doente
  [eh-stoh doh-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-lahn-doh]
• How much is it?Quanto custa?
  [kwahn-too koohs-tah]
• That's too expensiveIsso está muito caro
  [ee-soh ehs-tah moo-ee-toh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?Você pode baixar o preço?
  [voh-seh poh-deh bahy-shahr oo preh-soh]

• What time is it?Que horas são?
  [keh oh-rahss sah-oh]
• It's one o'clockÉ uma hora
  [eh oo-mah oh-rah]
• Half past (10)Dez e meia
  [dehz eh may-ah]
• MorningManhã
  [mahn-yah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoite
  [noy-teh]
• YesterdayOntem
  [ohn-tehm]
• TodayHoje
  [oh-zhee]
• TomorrowAmanhã
  [ah-mahn-yah]
• 1Um
  [oom]
• 2Dois
  [doh-ees]
• 3Três
  [trehs]
• 4Quatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [say-ees]
• 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-dreh-soh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Você pode me mostrar (no mapa)?
  [voh-seh poh-deh meh moh-strahr (noh mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando é o próximo (ônibus)?
  [kwahn-doh eh oh proh-ksih-moh (oh-nee-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Um bilhete (para ....)
  [oom bee-lyeh-teh (pah-rah)]

The idea of creating a new capital for Brazil dates back to the early 19th century. The objective was to promote the development of the interior of the country and reduce the concentration of political and economic power in the coastal cities. The concept gained traction under President Juscelino Kubitschek, who made it a key part of his 'fifty years of progress in five' plan.

In 1957, the urban planner Lúcio Costa won a competition to design the layout of Brasília. Costa's 'Plano Piloto' was revolutionary, featuring a distinct airplane shape when viewed from above. The plan divided the city into specific zones for governmental, residential, commercial, and cultural activities, ensuring a functional and harmonious urban environment.

Oscar Niemeyer, one of the most celebrated architects of the 20th century, was commissioned to design many of Brasília's iconic buildings. His futuristic and modernist designs include the National Congress, the Cathedral of Brasília, and the Palácio da Alvorada. Niemeyer's work is characterized by bold curves, extensive use of concrete, and innovative forms that have made Brasília a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The construction of Brasília began in 1956 and was a monumental task involving thousands of workers, often referred to as 'candangos.' Despite numerous challenges, the city was completed in an astonishingly short period, and on April 21, 1960, Brasília was officially inaugurated as the capital of Brazil. This event marked a significant milestone in Brazil's history, symbolizing progress and modernization.

In 1987, Brasília was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its unique urban planning and modernist architecture. The city is celebrated for its innovative design and the ambitious vision that brought it to life. This recognition has helped to preserve Brasília's architectural integrity and promote its cultural significance on the global stage.

Brasília is not just a political hub; it is also a cultural melting pot. The city is home to numerous museums, theaters, and cultural centers that celebrate Brazilian art, history, and traditions. Events like the Brasília Film Festival and various cultural fairs draw visitors from around the world, contributing to the city's vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. Today, Brasília stands as a testament to Brazil's innovative spirit and its continuous evolution.

Brasília is served by the Brasília International Airport (Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek), located about 11 kilometers from the city center. The airport handles both domestic and international flights, with connections to major cities around the world. From the airport, you can reach the city center by taxi, ride-sharing services, or the airport shuttle service. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport for more flexibility during your stay.

Brasília has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses, the Metrô (subway), and taxis. The Metrô covers a significant part of the city and is a convenient option for getting around. Buses are also widely available and serve most areas, but they can get crowded during peak hours. Ride-sharing services like Uber are popular and reliable. Renting a car is another option, especially if you plan to explore areas outside the city center. However, be prepared for Brasília's unique road system, which can be confusing for first-time visitors.

The official currency in Brazil is the Brazilian Real (BRL). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Brasília, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and in major shopping centers. Be aware of your surroundings when using ATMs, especially in less busy areas.

Brasília is generally considered a safe city for tourists, but like any major urban area, it has its share of crime. Areas to exercise caution include the satellite cities like Ceilândia and some parts of Taguatinga, where crime rates are higher. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially after dark. Always use registered taxis or ride-sharing services rather than hailing cabs off the street.

In case of an emergency, dial 190 for the police, 192 for medical emergencies, and 193 for the fire department. Major hospitals in Brasília include Hospital de Base and Hospital Santa Lúcia, both of which have emergency services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues, and many are open 24 hours.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the climate. Light, breathable clothing is recommended. Avoid overly revealing attire, especially when visiting government buildings or religious sites. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and traditions. When visiting churches or religious sites, dress modestly and observe any posted guidelines. Public Transport: Do use the Metrô or buses for an economical way to get around. Don't eat or drink on public transport, as it is considered rude. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly 'Bom dia' (Good morning). Brazilians are generally warm and friendly. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and drinks. Brasília has a diverse culinary scene, and trying local dishes is a must. Don't refuse a drink or food offering, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Brasília like a local, visit the Feira da Torre de TV, a popular market near the TV Tower, where you can find local crafts and foods. Spend time at the Parque da Cidade (City Park), a favorite spot for locals to exercise and relax. Attend a performance at the National Theatre or visit the numerous art galleries and museums, such as the Museu Nacional. For a unique dining experience, try one of the city's traditional churrascarias (Brazilian steakhouses).