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We can’t say it enough: Nomad Cruise is just the beginning. For many it’s a kickstart to their new lifestyle and way of working. After the cruise is the time where you get to know your new nomad friends better and make real bonds. You’ll be able to put the skills you learned onboard into practice and let your business shine.

In case you don’t have a flight back yet, we recommend to stick around with us for a few weeks to enjoy the beauty of Brazil.

None of this is mandatory we want you to stay the free spirit that you are, travel around, organise your own meetups and reunite with us wherever you want.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

BRAZIL  |  AFTER CRUISE GUIDE  |  ARRIVAL IN RECIFE  |  PORTO DE GALINHAS  |  JERI  |  PIPA  |  RIO  |  AFTER THE LAST REUNION  |  GENERAL GUIDANCE  |  SAFETY IN BRAZIL

With over 450 nomads arriving in Brazil there are simply too many of us to be able to stay together all of the time. So this year we won’t be organising our meetups and reunions in just one place, but in four different spots around the country.

Here’s the schedule for the official meetups:

  • Porto de Galinha – 1st of December
  • Jericoacoara – 7th & 14th of December
  • Pipa – 7th & 14th of December
  • Rio de Janeiro – 7th, 14th & 31st of December

We’ll be ending the year off with a bang! One final reunion in Rio de Janeiro on New Years Eve. So you can choose to travel with us to one or more of the Nomad Cruise Camps or just travel around by yourself and join us in Rio. It’s all up to you!

But of course, we’re not the only ones organizing meetups. Our experience after every cruise is that many of you get together in different places all over the country and the world. So stay connected and organise your own meetups wherever you are.  

Some of our Nomad Cruise friends organize two special events in Brazil that we wholeheartedly recommend.

To nurture your mind with workshops, masterminds and meditation, and nourish your body with a physical practice and good food, join the Life in Balance Retreat, where the only focus for the week will be finding balance and playfulness in each day.

Recently, our team participated in a mastermind led by Alex T Steffen and Jimmy Naraine. We were blown away by the value they provided and decided to bring them to our upcoming cruise. In addition to two transformational sessions at NC, they will be running a n exclusive three day event once we arrive in Recife. This private mastermind requires a separate application (special early bird discount for the Nomad Cruise Tribe ONLY) and has a limited number of seats. Have a look at their post mastermind video to see why we are so excited about this event! http://growthmasters.me/brazil/

We arrive at the port of Recife, the capital of the state Pernambuco, on the first of December. It’s one of the biggest cities in Brazil with almost 1.5 million inhabitants. Recife was founded in 1537 by the Portuguese and you can still find many old colonial houses in the city centre.

While that does sound beautiful, Recife is a really big city and we’re pretty keen on a beach vibe so we’re recommending that you go to Porto de Galinhas, which is about 60 km south of Recife. This is the place where we’ll stay for the first couple of nights after our arrival and it’ll be where we arrange our first meet up. This vibrant beach town is the perfect spot to come down from the Cruise high and slowly get back into your working routine.

To give you a soft-landing, we’ll arrange busses that will take you directly from the cruise ship terminal in Recife to Porto de Galinhas (for details, please check section “How to get there”). It’s located in the south of the state Pernambuco and was voted as having the most beautiful beach in Brazil at least 10 times by various international magazines. So look forward to clear blue water, white sand beaches and natural swimming pools all just waiting for us to arrive and enjoy!  

The origin of this little town’s name comes from when Brazil was a Portuguese colony, the direct translation of Galinha is chicken and was the word used to refer to slaves that arrived in the port back during the colonial period. People would frequently ask if the ‘new chickens’ had arrived yet? While it’s an unfortunate start to the town’s heritage, the little town is now a culturally rich little corner of Brazil.

FOR WHO

Everybody! It is always hard to say goodbye after the cruise. For all of those who won’t be staying in Brazil for long and those who have their own travel plans after the cruise, join us for one last hoorah before heading in a different direction. For those who are going to be doing Brazil Nomad Cruise style, this is just the beginning of the after cruise program. Either way, we really recommend that you stay a couple nights in Porto de Galinhas before traveling further into Brazil. Our first caipirinha on land won’t be the same without you!

WHERE TO STAY IN PORTO DE GALINHAS

Porto de Galinhas is a small village but has more than 18 km of beachfront. Our recommendation is to book your accommodation in the city centre. This way we can easily organise spontaneous meetups and find great places to work together.

Hostels:

Hotels:

HOW TO GET THERE

  • As mentioned above, we will be organizing buses from the cruise ship terminal to Porto de Galinhas directly after our arrival in Recife. The booking will be available a few weeks before departure in our excursion shop. Please note that we only can guarantee your seat if you book in advance.
  • If you prefer to stay in Recife for a few days, an Uber to Porto de Galinhas will cost between 160 – 250 Reais.
  • By local bus: The cheapest colectivo (bus) is Via Cruizeiro. It leaves every half hour and costs about 20 Reais. The ride can take up to 2,5 hours and the bus will drop you off at the entrance to the town.

Jericoacoara – or just Jeri as the locals say – is a small fisherman’s village. Jericoacoara is a remote place in the north of Brazil. It’s located 300 km north of Fortaleza in the state of Ceará. It’s famous for its enormous beaches and the Natural Park of Jericoacoara. The weather is tropical, so most days are sunny and warm but if it rains it’s normally just a short, but heavy shower. You won’t find a  sandier place in Brazil than Jericoacoara as the roads aren’t paved but made entirely out of sand. 

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you’re planning on visiting Jeri then bring cash! There are no ATM’s in this village. Most restaurants and shops have card facilities, but it’s impossible to withdraw money there. There are options to exchange dollars but usually, the rates are unfavorable, so our advice is a plan in advance and bring cash with you.

FOR WHO

Kiters and wannabe kiters, as well as beach lovers. Jeri is a kitesurfing paradise between October and February, for both beginners and experienced kiters. Rumor sais, it’s the best spot to learn kitesurfing. The weather is always good and it’s windy enough to kite all year round. You can enjoy amazing sunsets, eat delicious fish dishes and go on buggy adventures.

WHERE TO STAY

It will be almost impossible not to bump into other nomads in Jeri as it’s a pretty small town. We recommend you book in advance as it can get pretty crowded, especially in December when Brazilian Holidays start. Stay in the city centre or close to the beach. Get an airbnb or stay in one of the pousadas (Brazilian B&B).

Hostels:

Hotels:

HOW TO GET THERE

Azul Airlines offers some directs flights from Recife to Jeri. Try to get on one of those, otherwise it can be a little difficult to get there, as Jeri is one of those middle-of-no-where gems. Flying to Fortaleza is another option. From there you can take a bus or private 4×4 to get to Jeri. Depending on your driver and way of transport it takes between 4 and 7 hours to drive from Fortaleza to Jeri.

Important to note: From Jijoca, the last place with paved roads before Jeri, all travelers end up taking a 4×4 or buggy for the last 45 minutes of the trip.

The only bus company is Fretcar and a bus ticket from Fortaleza to Jeri costs between 72 and 85 Reais. You can go by private 4×4, the prices vary according to the number of people in the car, but the maximum you’ll pay is 150 Reais. A 4×4 car leaving from the airport will get you to Jeri within four hours. Give Sergio a call to book your ride in advance  Sergio: +55 88 9871 9866

For those who don’t have the patience for an extended road trip, a small airport was opened in 2017 and it caters for helicopters and small aircraft so you have the option of taking an AirTaxi, which will get you from Fortaleza to Jeri in about an hour. There are even flights from Recife at certain dates, check Azul Airlines for prices and dates.

Pipa is one of those dreamy destinations. It’s located in the municipality of Tibau do Sol, which means ‘between two waters’ as it lies between the Atlantic ocean and a big lagoon. The closest big city is Natal, which is 85 kilometers away. In Pipa you will find white beaches surrounded by high cliffs and clear water where you can swim with dolphins and turtles who are very eager to come by to say hello. In the ‘70s the village was discovered by surfers and has had kind of a hippie vibe ever since. There are lots of good restaurants and we promise you’ll love the lively nightlife.

FOR WHO

Surfers and beach boys and girls! If you are looking for a place to enjoy the beach and get some work done in a beautiful environment, Pipa is the place for you. Pipa is home to turtles and dolphins and it is the perfect place to clear your mind. Wake up early in the morning for amazing sunrises and take in the splendor of the impressive cliff face. Go for a coffee in one of the many bars and get cracking on your tasks for the day.

This is also the perfect place to go to before heading to Maracajaú.  The place where our amazing Nikki and Steph will host a Yoga Retreat www.lifeinbalanceretreat.com. They will nurture your minds with workshops, masterminds and meditation, and you will nourish your body with physical practice and good food.

WHERE TO STAY

Hostels:

Hotels:

HOW TO GET THERE

The easiest way to get to Pipa is from the city of Natal. From Natal’s city centre you can take a van called  Praia de Pipa (Pipa Beach). From the main bus station in Natal you’re also able to take a bus from the company Oceano. There are several buses per day to take you to Pipa. It will take you between 1 to 2 hours and costs around 10 Reais.

There is no place like Rio de Janeiro. It’s called Cidade Maravilhosa – the wonderful city. And it totally deserves the title. Amazing sunsets, lush rainforests, buzzy nightlife and plenty of cultural sights topped with friendly people, tons of street art and many cute cafes and places to relax. There is simply no reason not to go to Rio when you are in Brazil.

FOR WHO

Well, basically, all of us! We are planning to have our Final Reunion in Rio de Janeiro for New Years. But, if what you’re looking for is a place you can get a lot or work done while still enjoying a vibrant, colorful city we suggest you go to Rio directly after arrival. There are plenty of good coworking spaces in different parts of town. Simply choose the one you feel best at and finish your to-do list before we come join you for the biggest party of the year at the end of December.

WHERE TO STAY

Rio has lots to offer. If you prefer to stay in a bit more crowded and touristy place, you should stay in Ipanema or Copacabana, the best spot is in the triangle between both neighborhoods. We recommend you book a place as soon as possible in Rio de Janeiro if you’re planning on staying there for NYE as it is always full and it can get really expensive around those dates. Here some of the best hostels in RIO.

HOW TO GET THERE

Being one of the biggest cities you can fly from and to all destinations inside and outside of Brazil. There are also several bus stations with buses from and to major destinations in the country. All roads lead to Rio ;-)

WHAT’S NOT TO LOVE ABOUT BRAZIL?

Stunning beaches, friendly people, delicious food, vibrant cities, samba and caipirinhas.

There are no words to truly describe the beauty and diversity of this amazing country. It’s  the biggest country in Latin America and you’re sure to find the perfect spot that matches your needs entirely. We’ll be arriving in Recife in the Northern part of Brazil. So this’ll be a great opportunity to get to know this part of this energetic country. The north of Brazil is less well known than the hugely popular southern parts, but it is equally as beautiful and not to be missed.

THE CURRENCY

The currency in Brazil is the Brazilian Reais and the local language is Brazilian Portuguese, which has a friendlier ring to it than the Portuguese you’ll hear in Portugal. In general, Brazilians are a friendly bunch but not many speak English, especially in those places that are not tourism focused, so occasionally you may struggle to find someone who understands you. But fear not, we have you covered: learn these phrases, offer a big smile and you’ll get around easily enough.

FOOD

If you were planning to lose those extra Cruise kilos in Brazil, then we’re afraid you’re out of luck.

Brazilian cuisine is delicious and you just have try everything. They absolutely love sweets and chocolates and it all begins with breakfast. You can expect a menu of cakes, fruits, different kinds of breads and yoghurts for you to sample. Amolço (lunch) is an occasion and depending on the region of Brazil you are in, you can expect a variety of excellent dishes.

The main ingredients in most dishes are rice, beans, potato, cassava and a lot of fruits. On the coast they enjoy a diet of fish and sea fruits. Meat is also very popular. Vegetarianism isn’t very common in Brazil but don’t worry you’re sure to find vegetarian dishes wherever you go.

Brazilian portions are enormous and a single dish for one person is often enough for two and sometimes even three people. Make sure you try all of these amazing delicacies: Churrascos (barbecue meat), Moqueca (delicious fish stew), Brigadeiros (kind of chocolate truffle)  Pão de queijo (cheese bread), Açaí (Amazonian fruit, mostly eaten frozen with granola and banana) and Feijoada (stew of black beans).

AIRLINES IN BRAZIL

Brazil is a big country but it’s a pretty easy place to travel through. For longer distances the best way to get around is to fly. While it’s not the best for the environment, bus rides of 35 hours or more aren’t that great for the planet either or for your peace of mind.

There are several relatively cheap airlines in Brazil.

BUSSES IN BRAZIL

If you’re traveling by public transport or long distance bus, make sure you bring something warm as most drivers set the aircon temperature to below freezing to ensure you don’t melt along the journey;-). You can find (and buy) bus passages via https://www.buscaonibus.com.br/en

For those of you who plan to stay in South America after the Final Reunion in Rio we recommend that you keep traveling south towards Buenos Aires in Argentina. Make sure you stop in Florianopolis and don’t forget to visit the impressive Iguazu Falls.

After Buenos Aires, you can make your way south to Patagonia or go overland and take the usual backpacker route towards Colombia traveling via Chile, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador. Medellin in Colombia is a great Nomad Hub.

  • Keep your wristband on until it crumbles off! We know some of you hang on to your wristbands like a badge of honour, while others are just not big wristband fans but we really recommend you keep it on as long as possible, because, we will always try to arrange discounts and nice deals for Nomads and the best way to prove you were on the cruise is your wristband!
  • Keep in mind that it can be quite a challenge to get a local sim card in Brazil. You can buy the card easily enough but to  activate it you need a CPF (Brazilian ID). There are some little stores where they use a CPF generator. Technically it’s not legal but it does work. So your best best is is to make Brazilian friends and ask them to activate the sim card for you. And who doesn’t like making new friends?
  • Most of you probably use Uber already, but if you don’t ,download the Uber App before going to Brazil. It’s a safe and convenient way to move around and more reliable than most of the taxi’s.
  • Zika virus, Dengue, Yellow fever and Malaria are common illnesses in Brazil. Make sure you get vaccinated before leaving for the cruise and take precautionary measures when going to remote places.
  • Brazil is strict with their Visa requirements. Most Europeans can enter with a passport that’s valid for 6 months or more and get their tourist visa upon arrival. But Canadians, Americans, Japanese and Australians have to apply (and pay) for a Visa in advance. Also for some countries, you need to prove you have sufficient funds for your stay in Brazil. Make sure you know the entry rules that apply to your country of origin before getting on board and allow for enough time to apply for and receive a Visa where necessary. It is most likely that you will get a Tourist Visa for 90 days. Each day you overstay, you will get a penalty of 100 reais per day with a maximum of R. 10.000,-. You will be banned for 6 months and can only re-enter after paying the penalty.

Brazil has a reputation for being really dangerous

It’s not unfair, but it is slightly exaggerated. Don’t let fear take the spotlight off this beautiful country. Like everywhere, most problems happen in big cities like Salvador, Recife, São Paulo and Rio. So be extra alert in those places.

Take the precautions you always do when on the road and just keep a close eye on your belongings, as theft is the most common crime tourists face. Criminals are aware that there will be a lot of negative media if a foreigner is harmed so that almost never happens.

Keep the following in mind:

  • Stay on busy streets with street lights, don’t wander around in empty back alleys
  • Don’t go out alone (that’s boring anyway), stay in groups, especially in the cities
  • Use Uber (or taxis) in cities after sunset, it’s safer than walking when it’s dark
  • Leave your passports in (the safe of) your hotel or airbnb, when you go out just take a copy with you.
  • Carry only the amount of money you’ll need for the day out with you
  • Don’t wear any jewelry. Thieves don’t recognize the difference between expensive and inexpensive items so just don’t wear any so you won’t be in danger of losing anything.
  • Scams happen on a daily basis: they say you have dirt on your shirt and will offer to help you clean it. Before you know it the stain is gone along with your wallet.
  • In case you are the victim of an assalto (hold-up): just hand them everything you have. They want your possessions, not you. Don’t resist, it’s not worth the trouble and potential harm.
  • Laptops are a beloved item for pickpockets. Don’t make it obvious you are carrying one with you.
  • Demonstrations and protests happen often in Brazil. If there is one set to happen close to you avoid it and follow the recommendations of the local authorities
  • Although you see a lot of people smoking marihuana: it’s not legal in Brazil. All drugs are illegal. If the police stop you and you have drugs in your possessions you are in big trouble. Just get high on nomad life!
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