Area, Geography, and Climate Last Updated: 10/29/2003 10:14 AM

Brazil, with a land area of 3.29 million square miles, is slightly larger than the continental U.S. It extends from the Amazonian equatorial plains at latitude 4 degrees N. to cool uplands at 30 degrees S., where frost occurs frequently. Brazil borders all South American countries, except Chile and Ecuador. To the east, the Brazilian coastline extends 4,600 miles along the Atlantic Ocean.

The vast regions of the Amazon and La Plata River basins occupy about three-fifths of the total area. The country’s main physical feature is the huge plateau that rises from 1,000 to 3,000 feet above sea level between São Paulo and Rio Grande do Sul. This is intersected by two mountain ranges. The highest, 9,823 feet is near Rio de Janeiro. The second mountain system, located in central Brazil, has an eastern range with a maximum altitude of 4,206 feet and a western peak of 4,500 feet near the city of Goiánia. Due to its great plains and basins, 40% of the country has an average altitude of only 650 feet.

Although Brazil is immense in size and varies in topography from the sweeping sea-level Amazon basin in the north to the mountainous areas of São Paulo and Porto Alegre in the south, the temperature range is slight.

Summer runs from December to February, as seasons are the reverse of those of the U.S. The rainy season runs from October to March, but varies greatly by region.

Population Last Updated: 2/4/2004 1:36 PM

Brazil’s population of roughly 179 million is composed of four major groups: indigenous Indians, the Portuguese, Africans brought to Brazil as slaves, and various European and Asian immigrant groups. The Portuguese navigator Pedro Alvares Cabral discovered Brazil in 1500, and the country was subsequently colonized by the Portuguese. A strong African influence exists in the northeast, the legacy of slaves brought to Brazil. The population in the southern half of the country reflects various waves of immigration, with many Brazilians of German and Italian descent in Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul. A large Japanese population is concentrated in the agricultural and industrial area around Sao Paulo, and Brazil also has a significant population of Arab descent. Travelers to Brazil will note a distinct atmosphere and population in each region—the result of the wide diversity in Brazil’s ethnic composition.

Brazilians are warm and friendly people eager to know foreigners and their habits and customs. In large cities, many Brazilians speak some English, but appreciate Americans who speak Portuguese. A knowledge of the language is necessary to understand and enjoy the people and their intriguing culture.

Some 90% of the population live in the central plateau and the narrow coastal plain along the Atlantic. The tropical Amazon River basin, comprising almost half of Brazil’s total area, is sparsely settled. The Trans-Amazonian Highway Project, as well as several large development projects such as Carajas, are aimed at developing the local economy and encouraging migration into the less populated regions of northern Brazil.

Almost every religion is represented in Brazil, but Roman Catholics are predominant (89%). Animism is widespread and is practiced alongside Catholicism. Religious freedom and separation of church and state prevail.

Public Institutions Last Updated: 2/4/2004 1:41 PM

Brazil is a constitutional federal republic with broad powers granted to the federal government. The 1988 constitution establishes, at the national level, a presidential system with three branches — executive, legislative, and judicial. Brazilians elected President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and his Vice-President, Jose Alencar, to a four-year term beginning January 1, 2003.

The bicameral national Congress consists of 81 senators (three from each state and the Federal District) elected to eight-year terms, and 513 federal deputies elected at large in each state to four-year terms, based on a complex proportional representation system, weighted in favor of less populous states. The apex of the judicial system is the Supreme Federal Tribunal, whose 11 justices are appointed by the president to serve until age 70.

Brazil is divided administratively into 26 states and a federal district, which includes the capital, Brasília. The structure of state and local governments closely parallels that of the federal government. Governors are elected for four-year terms. A federal revenue-sharing system, in place since the 1988 constitution, provides states with considerable resources.

Arts, Science, and Education Last Updated: 2/25/2004 12:21 AM

Brazil’s tremendous ethnic and regional diversity makes for a vibrant and varied cultural scene. São Paulo and Rio audiences enjoy a constant menu of outstanding national music and art events, and a steady diet of top international fare as well. Brasília and Recife are less tied into the international circuit, but local and national cultural options are regularly available.

Brazil’s federal and state higher education institutions include some of the finest in Latin America, a product of heavy government investment in graduate-level programs and university research capacity since the 1960s. Of the 68 major universities in Brazil, 35 are federal, 20 are private or church-related, two are municipal and 11 are state supported. Every state but one (Tocantins) and the Federal District of Brasília has one or more federal universities, all of which operate directly under the Ministry of Education. In many states there are also one or more state universities and one or more Catholic universities. In addition to the universities, there are approximately 800 other degree-granting colleges and institutions of higher education in such areas as engineering, medicine, agriculture, law, economics and business administration. While bloated payrolls and an innovation-stifling bureaucracy have come to pose a serious challenge to the health and quality of the system, a number of reforms stressing greater teacher and student performance-based accountability and more streamlined budgetary processes promise to address many concerns.

The Lula da Silva Administration recognizes that to be competitive in today’s more open and service-driven economy places greater demands on workforce education at all levels, and resources are being shifted to the long-neglected primary and secondary levels. Both access and quality are showing improvement. Although eight years of schooling have been legally compulsory since 1973, 1992 figures revealed that the average Brazilian worker had fewer than five years of formal education.

During the ’70s and ’80s, the poor quality of public schools prompted almost all Brazilian middle- and upper-class families to send their children to private or church-affiliated schools. Those children were then better prepared to pass the difficult entry exams for the public universities, creating a paradox in which the less affluent Brazilians were the least able to benefit from the free public universities. Today that trend is showing some signs of softening as quality improvements and economic pressures lead an increasing number of middle-class families to opt again for public schools.

Commerce and Industry Last Updated: 10/29/2003 10:28 AM

Brazil’s gross domestic product (GDP) of US$800 billion in 1998 makes it the world’s ninth largest economy. Brazil’s population of 160 million makes it the fourth most populous country, and its territory is the fifth largest. Rich resources make Brazil a country of tremendous potential. Per capita income averages US$5,000, with sharp disparities; in general, the south and southeast are more prosperous, while the northeast is much poorer.

Brazil’s economy is highly diversified both agriculturally and industrially. Brazil is a major exporter of manufactured products (73 percent of total exports). It is the world’s largest exporter of coffee and orange juice concentrate and a major exporter of soybeans, sugar, cocoa, meat and cotton. Mining is also important, particularly iron ore production.

After many years of high inflation, Brazil achieved its most sustained period of stability, beginning in July 1994 with the introduction of a new currency, the real (plural is reais; abbreviation is R$). This stabilization plan was developed when current President Fernando Henrique Cardoso was Finance Minister (May 1993– April 1994). The inflation rate, which had reached 50 percent per month by June 1994, declined to less than two percent per month throughout 1995. Inflation came down as a result of a strongly valued currency bolstered by very high real interest rates.

In order to consolidate the stabilization program, attract more long-term investment, and put Brazil on the path to long-term sustainable growth, the government must implement wide-ranging structural reforms. Over the years, Brazil has built a cumbersome government-dominated economy that has benefited a few special interests at the expense of the overall society. Many of the necessary reforms require amendment of Brazil’s 1988 Constitution. The Congress passed in 1995 five reforms opening the economy to greater investment by the private sector, including foreign investors. Since then some US$80 billion of mostly federally owned assets have been privatized with another US$20 billion of state and local enterprises set for the auction block in 1999.

The GOB has been engaged in a multifaceted program to stabilize its economy in the face of a global financial crisis which began in Asia in late 1997 and was further aggravated with Russia’s default and the devaluation of its currency in September 1998. Brazil’s vulnerability was its high fiscal deficit. To address this, the Brazilian government has cut spending modestly while simultaneously raising taxes. In early 1999, it abandoned its foreign exchange policy which had closely bound the real to the dollar in a “crawling peg,” embracing, instead, a floating exchange. There was strong consensus that the real has been overvalued for some time. The result was a nearly 50 percent devaluation against the dollar in its first month. To further address the fundamental causes of fiscal deficit, Brazil continues to make structural reforms, primarily in the area of social security and public sector retirement programs. Other reforms currently under consideration include an overhaul of its tax system, labor reform, and political reform to strengthen party organization and discipline.

Transportation

Automobiles Last Updated: 10/29/2003 10:36 AM

All U.S. employees assigned to Brazil may either import a car duty-free or purchase a Brazilian-manufactured car. Diplomatic personnel assigned to the Embassy in Brasília may import one vehicle and buy one vehicle locally, or buy two locally. An imported vehicle purchased from another duty-free person who has served less than 3 years in country counts as one imported vehicle for the employee.

Although bus lines and taxi services are available, you need a car in Brasília. If you decide to ship a vehicle, you must advise the Embassy by cable of the make, model, VIN, options, year of manufacture, color, and price as soon as possible. You must have specific authorization from the Embassy before you can ship your car to post. Additionally, your arrival in country must precede arrival of your car. Please advise us of your estimated time of arrival (ETA) at post so that the Embassy or consulate can authorize the shipment of your privately owned vehicle (POV) so that it can arrive at post on a date near to that of your arrival at post. Upon arrival at post, you must provided a copy of the POV's bill of sale and title to the general service’s office (GSO) customs and shipping unit of the Embassy or Consulate General.

Although many members of the Embassy staff have chosen to ship cars to Brazil and have successfully managed to keep them in good mechanical condition, you should consider the following factors before deciding whether to import or purchase a vehicle locally:

Parts for cars not produced in Brazil must be ordered from abroad. Few mechanics are trained for repair of imported vehicles. Brazil manufactures gasoline, alcohol, and some service-type, diesel-powered vehicles. Gasoline available is only a 72-octane gasohol mixture. Nearly all gasoline sold in Brazil contains up to 25% anhydrous alcohol. Non-Brazilian-manufactured vehicles run well on the local gasohol. But low-compression engines, either imported or produced locally, are recommended. The gasoline is non-leaded and therefore it is not necessary to remove the catalytic converter.

The Embassy Special Services Association (ESSA), the commissary and recreation association, operates one gas pump on the Embassy compound at designated hours on weekdays.

An imported, personally-owned vehicle may be sold without payment of taxes and duties only after it has been in country 3 years. If sold earlier, duties and taxes are charged at the rate of 100% during the first year, 70% the second year, 30% the third year, and 0% after 3 years. Taxes are not prorated.

You may purchase a locally manufactured vehicle tax free and sell it after 1 year without payment of tax. But it can only be replaced after 12 months for diplomatic and consular personnel. Staff and consular employees are authorized only one tax-free car during their assignment. Normal delivery time can take up to 3 months after an order is placed.

To avoid high storage costs, despatch agents and Foreign Service posts are requested to make shipping arrangements with the employee to ensure that vehicles arrive shortly after your scheduled arrival. An ocean bill of lading, a bill of sale or a pro forma invoice, and an authorization of the Ministry of External Relations are required to clear a car through customs.

Purchase marine insurance before shipping a car to protect it during shipment to Brazil. Check collision policies written by U.S. companies to see if marine insurance is included before purchasing a separate policy. Most people purchase collision insurance through a U.S. company, as insurance rates for both comprehensive collision and liability coverage are higher in Brazil and provide low coverage.

Ford, Chevrolet, Fiat and VW manufacture full lines of vehicles in Brazil. Most models are based on the companies’ European models, but a few are similar to models sold in the U.S. Toyota, Honda and Renault manufacture a limited selection of models in Brazil. Brazilians overwhelmingly prefer vehicles with manual transmissions; automatic transmission is available on a few models, though not all. Official Americans with tax exemption can purchase new vehicles at a price about 35% lower than the normal Brazilian market. If tax-exempt, new Brazilian-made vehicles may still be more expensive than comparable U.S.-made vehicles. Diplomatic price lists can be obtained from each post’s GSO section. Used cars are readily available.

The number of imported cars in Brazil is increasing, and dealers are improving service and parts availability. However, it would still be prudent to bring a shop/repair manual and some make/model-specific spare parts. There are several competent mechanics in town who have done satisfactory repair work for Embassy employees.

The time required to obtain permanent license plates depends on the Brazilian issuing office (in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs) and may take from 1 to 2 weeks. Employees assigned to the Embassy are issued CD plates, and consular officers are issued CC plates by the Brazilian Government at no charge. Cars with CD and CC plates may only be driven by the owner, family, or a licensed chauffeur employed by the owner. Currently, employees without diplomatic status at the consulates are issued regular license plates at a $25.50 charge.

All POVs must carry mandatory and third-party insurance. The mandatory insurance covers personal medical expenses resulting from an accident and costs about R$60 a year. The third-party insurance may be obtained from a Brazilian or a U.S. firm. The minimum required coverage is $400,000 for property damage and $400,000 for personal injury or death. Insurance should include coverage for all persons who may, with permission, operate the vehicle.

The Brazilian Transit Department (DETRAN) issues Brazilian drivers licenses, and you can obtain one through the General Services Office (GSO) of the Embassy or consulate if you have a valid drivers license and pay a small fee. Those without a valid U.S. or other foreign license are required to have an eye exam. Only eligible family members (EFMs) 18 years old or older are eligible to obtain a Brazilian license.

Brasília. Taxis are available and offer adequate transportation, particularly for short runs. They are, however, expensive. Municipal governments set metered taxi rates, with higher rates being charged after 11 p.m. on weekends and holidays. All cabs have red license plates with white numbers. Tips are not required, but 10% of the metered fare is appropriate for excellent service.

Bus transportation passes through the center of the city, as well as on other major thoroughfares and is good. Bus service is also available to Brasília’s many satellite cities.

Rio de Janeiro. Many metered taxis are available at reasonable prices, depending on the distance to be traveled. Radio controlled taxis which can be requested by phone are also available. Drivers have a reputation for being reckless. The Security Office advises personnel to avoid riding public buses because of the high incidence of theft. The Metro is also another form of transportation from Copacabana to downtown. The Metro is reasonably priced at R$1.00 each way. Air-conditioned buses are widely available and the price ranges from R$3.00 to R$5.00. The air-conditioned buses are generally safer than the public buses. Public bus price is R$.70 each way if you choose to take this route of transportation.

São Paulo. Metered taxis are available at reasonable prices. Although you should not use public buses, some employees at post have found the special Executivo express buses a comfortable and safe means to and from the Consulate General.

Recife. Recife’s extensive bus system is efficient and inexpensive. Taxis are abundant and inexpensive. Although we recommend against their use, inexpensive gypsy cab vans ply regular routes.

Belo Horizonte. The rapid growth of this city has overburdened the city’s transportation system. Bus lines are extensive and inexpensive, but some knowledge of the city is required. The bus system is chaotic, with most lines ending in the downtown area requiring a change of bus for cross-town trips. Although economical, city buses are overcrowded and offer only minimal comfort.

Taxis are plentiful and can be found at stands situated throughout the downtown and principal residential areas. Taxi fares are moderate. Trips to outlying areas require a fare supplement. Taxi companies provide radio-controlled service.

Crowded traffic conditions and a limited number of parking spaces in the downtown and adjacent commercial areas of the city make the use of private cars impractical at times. Trips to this area during business hours are best taken on foot or by taxi.

Transportation

Regional Transportation Last Updated: 10/29/2003 10:40 AM

Direct international air service is available to and from the U.S., Africa, and Europe. Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo are the primary entry airports for U.S. flag carriers. However, some international flights terminate in Manaus, Belem, Recife, Brasília, Belo Horizonte, and other Brazilian cities. Intracountry connections to Brazil’s major cities by national airlines are excellent, but airfares are high. Air transportation to and from Belo Horizonte is excellent, as the city is served by all four Brazilian commercial air carriers and American and United Airlines. Air transportation to and from Porto Alegre is also excellent, although most destinations require an intervening stop in Rio or São Paulo.

Bus transportation between cities is inexpensive and widely used. Some of the longer routes have air-conditioned buses with sleeper chairs (leito), coffee service, and toilets. Most intracity buses are not air-conditioned and are crowded during rush hours, but run frequently and are inexpensive. Metro service operates in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.

The highway system in southeastern Brazil and as far north as Salvador is good. Brasília is connected directly to Foz do Iguacu, Belem, Goi nia, and to Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Gas stations, restaurants, and hotel accommodations are scarce on some highways.

The Amazon and Plata Rivers with their tributaries provide 25,600 miles of navigable rivers. Regular water transportation is available from Rio de Janeiro south to Buenos Aires and up the Amazon to Iquitos on the Peruvian border. You can obtain information in Belem on ships traveling up the Amazon.

Communications

Telephones and Telecommunications Last Updated: 10/29/2003 10:41 AM

Brazil’s telephone service is good. Local rates are higher than in the U.S., however. Reception on incoming international calls is excellent; for outgoing calls reception varies considerably. Direct dialing is available internationally and throughout Brazil. After hours, employees can make calls from post to the U.S. on special lines called IVG. With these lines, you pay long distance charges based from the DC area, not Brazil. Hence, a telephone calling card from a major carrier (AT&T, Sprint, MCI, etc.) is quite useful.

Communications

Telephones and Telecommunications

Wireless Service Last Updated: 10/29/2003 10:41 AM Cellular phone service is Brazil is popular. Through a special agreement with Americel, a limited number of cellular phones instruments are provided for free and embassy personnel only pay the monthly line charge and per call usage.

Communications

Internet Last Updated: 2/25/2004 1:47 PM

Internet use has grown rapidly in Brazil. As of 2002, nearly 14 million Brazilians were surfing the net and Brazilian web sites are proliferating daily. Internet service providers are multiplying throughout the country, and prices have become quite competitive. You can expect to pay $20 to $35 for monthly service, depending on the amount of usage and your location. AOL is coming into Brazil shortly, so the U.S. standby will also be an option. Phone lines have historically been the limiting factor with Internet service, as 56k modems were wasted on bad lines. With the privatization of phone companies throughout Brazil, the future looks brighter (and faster).

Personal Computer Support/Internet. Surfing the Internet is an excellent way to keep in touch with the outside world — especially given the lack of English newspapers in Brazil. Internet access is available within the workplace; Internet Service Providers are available locally for about $25/month; the associated local telephone line charges can run up to $80/month under heavy usage. The embassy Intranet 205.128.84.11 provides additional post-specific information.

Internet Support. Most persons bring a computer and laser or color printer to post. Computers and associated hardware are more expensive in Brazil than in the U.S. Parts for personal computers made by international vendors (Dell, Compaq, Hewlett-Packard, etc.) are usually available. Qualified repair personnel can be difficult to find. Be sure to bring power and telephone line protection for computer equipment.

Communications

Mail and Pouch Last Updated: 10/29/2003 10:44 AM

Personal mail for official mission personnel arrives via Army Post Office (APO) facilities. The APO for all posts in Brazil is located in Rio de Janeiro. The Rio APO offers a full range of U.S. postal services such as insured, certified and registered mail.

Incoming Mail: First class letter mail delivery from the U.S. to Rio is 3–6 days. Priority parcel mail takes 1–2 weeks, and parcel post (space available mail) can take up to 6 weeks for delivery. Air pouch service from Rio to in-country posts is via air and takes 2 days for delivery. Parcels may not exceed 72 inches in girth and length combined nor 48 inches maximum length. Maximum weight is 70 pounds.

Outgoing Mail: Transit times are about the same as incoming mail. Size limit is 108 inches girth and length combined, not to exceed 48 inches in length. Maximum weight is 70 pounds.

Proper address format for APO mail service is provided below:

Name Post, (e.g., American Embassy Brasília) Unit Number APO AA 34030

Each post has been designated a unit number for APO use only:

American Embassy Brasília – 3500 American Consulate General Rio de Janeiro – 3501 American Consulate General São Paulo – 3502 American Consulate Recife – 3503 Foreign Commercial Service Belo Horizonte – 3505

Registered mail service is available at Rio de Janeiro only. It is handled by the military Air Mobility Command and takes much longer (up to 60 days) for delivery. Size and weight limits for registered mail is 108 inches girth and length combined and up to 70 pounds.

Prohibited materials for mailing include explosives, firearms, ammunition, incendiary material, corrosives, caustics, poisons, radioactive substances, magnetic material, liquids (including paints), items packed in glass containers larger than 6”, illegal narcotics and dangerous drugs. Use of the APO service for personal business is strictly prohibited.

Particular mail inquiries should be addressed to the APO supervisor in Rio de Janeiro.

Communications

Radio and TV Last Updated: 2/25/2004 2:43 PM

Brazil has almost 2,000 radio stations and more than 100 television broadcast stations. For most Brazilians, TV and radio act as the principal source of news, sports and entertainment. TV Globo is known throughout the world for its telenovelas (soap operas), which bring Brazilian stories to TV fans throughout the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa.

Unlike the U.S. standard NTSC system, Brazil television is broadcast with the PAL-M system. A U.S.-purchased NTSC set can receive the PAL-M signal, but only in black and white. NTSC-PAL-M converters that will allow you to use your NTSC set and receive the normal color transmission are available in large cities for prices that range between $60 and $100. Multisystem TVs are available in Brazil, as well; as of February 1999, a 29-inch SONY multisystem set was selling for about $600.

While Brazil’s commercial and public networks provide an ample selection of Portuguese-language news, talk shows, soap operas, sports and variety programs, most Embassy personnel also subscribe to one of the cable systems. Since the launch of cable service in 1993, it has grown rapidly. The major companies are Direct TV, Mais TV, and SKY. Monthly fees range from about $25 to $40, depending on the package selected. CNN, ESPN, HBO, Cartoon Network, Discovery Kids and similar cable fare are available.

Video rental outlets, including U.S. giant Blockbuster, are common throughout Brazil. American-made films for children are generally dubbed into Portuguese; those for adults generally carry subtitles. Video rental prices range from $1 to $3 at February 1999 exchange rates.

Radio fare runs the gamut from MPB (Brazilian Popular Music) and Bossa Nova to Motown and classical music. U.S. music fans can easily identify several stations that focus on music from back home, and Portuguese-speaking news hounds will find a growing selection of all-news or mostly news formats. The Brazilian Government continues to require all commercial broadcasters to air the government-run Radiobras news program from 7 to 8 p.m. During election time, the public airwaves are also dedicated to a couple of hours a day of free campaign spots for candidates.

Those who would like to practice their Portuguese from the U.S. can start by accessing dozens of Brazilian newspapers via http://www.zaz.com.br/noticias/jornais.chtm or listen to Brazilian radio stations via the Internet at http://www.lanic.utexas.edu/ilas/brazctr/radio.html

You can also preview U.S.-Brazil issues and the mission via the embassy homepage, www.embaixadaamericana.org.br

Communications

Newspapers, Magazines, and Technical Journals Last Updated: 10/29/2003 10:47 AM

Brazilian newsstands are jammed with an array of newspaper and magazines, ranging from the serious to the frivolous. Major dailies such as Folha de São Paulo, Jornal do Brasil, O Estado de São Paulo, and O Globo are great sources for information about Brazilian politics, society and culture. They and many smaller, regional newspapers can be accessed on-line via http://www.zaz.com.br/noticias/jornais.chtm. Veja, the most widely circulated weekly magazine in Brazil, offers both newcomers and veterans an excellent overview of the country.

International newspapers such as the International Herald Tribune, The Wall Street Journal, The Miami Herald and The New York Times are available at major newsstands, but the news will be at least a day — and sometimes a week — old. Single editions sell for the equivalent of USD 2.50 to USD 4.00, and subscriptions are available. For timely news from the U.S., most mission personnel rely on Internet access to The New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal or hometown dailies.

Latin American editions of Time and Newsweek, which focus more on international events and issues, are available both at newsstands and via subscription. As of February 1999, annual subscriptions ranged from R$90 for Newsweek to R$157 for Time. Subscriptions to U.S. editions are possible via APO, though editions often arrive two weeks to a month late.

National bookstore chains such as Saraiva and Livraria Siciliano carry a selection of English-language paperbacks alongside their Brazilian titles, but prices tend to be significantly higher than what readers can find via amazon.com or other U.S. providers.

Health and Medicine

Medical Facilities Last Updated: 10/29/2003 10:49 AM

The Embassy in Brasília and each of the Consulates General and Consulates, with the exception of Recife, have Health Unit (HU) facilities located within the premises of the post. Additionally, at each location, there are designated Post Medical Advisers (PMA) as well as a listing of referral physicians who have been selected on the basis of medical training credentials, English language skills, and previous satisfactory encounters by post personnel. In addition to providing acute care and referral services, each of the HU’s can provide immunizations. The HU staff will also facilitate obtaining consultant physician office appointments, diagnostic laboratory and radiographic studies when requested. Dental care, particularly acute restorations, is satisfactory in all locations. Medical care and dental care costs are the equivalent or somewhat higher than in the United States. Payment for services is expected at the time of the visit. The HU staff will find out what the anticipated charges will be and convey that information to the employee prior to the visit. In each of the constituent posts, the Regional Medical Officer (RMO) has designated hospitals that have been evaluated and deemed satisfactory for outpatient as well as inpatient care. The Foreign Service Health Practitioner (FSHP) and the RMO make the decision regarding the appropriateness of locally provided inpatient medical care on individualized basis.

Miami is the designated regional medical evacuation site for medical, surgical and complex dental care. Recommendation for medical/dental evacuation is at the discretion of the FSHP and/or the RMO. Authorization and funding for such evacuation comes from MED in Washington. As of September 1999, the RMO for posts located in Brazil will be resident in Santiago, Chile.

Obstetrical care is considered satisfactory at all Brazilian posts. Obstetrical medical evacuation is available to any American spouse who wishes to have the birth of her baby in the United States. The evacuation point will be Miami. Any travel beyond this port of entry will be paid in a cost constructive manner. The decision concerning delivery at post or stateside, naturally, is individualized and will be discussed and made mutually by the expectant woman, the FSHP and/or RMO. Travel regulations, medical per diem, and MED directives define optimal travel dates.

Most of the pharmaceuticals used in the United States are available in the Brazilian post cities. In some cases the identical brand name medication is marketed locally. However, in some instances, the quality or availability of locally marketed medication is suboptimal. If an individual is using a medication on a regular basis (including birth control medication) that person should bring along a good supply (4-6 months’ worth) to post and also make arrangements for or identify Stateside sources for future refills. Medication refill supplies can be mailed through the APO mail system.

The testing of blood products for transfusion purposes in Brazil has improved considerably over the past several years and blood supplies are considered safe. Nevertheless, each post maintains a listing of voluntary blood donors and directed donations are accepted in the approved local hospitals.

Brasília. The FSHP, with regional responsibilities, is resident in Brasília. There are several very adequate hospitals available and the level of competence and technical sophistication among the local health care providers is very good. Dental, orthodontic, and prosthodontic care is available and of good quality. Supplies of medications are good. There is an abundance of specialist consultant physicians available, many of whom are English speaking and have had training in the United States. There are two PMA’s, one for pediatric care, the other, an American Board-certified internist, for adult care. Both are fluent in English.

Rio de Janeiro. In the Rio de Janeiro HU there is a full-time secretary/receptionist as well as a contracted local physician. The physician attends the clinic two half-days per week. As in Brasília, there are inspected and satisfactory hospitals, well-trained specialist physicians, and other medical support services are readily available. Likewise, dental, orthodontic, and prosthodontic care is available and of good quality. Supplies of medications are good.

São Paulo. The HU in São Paulo is staffed by a locally contracted registered nurse who is present for half days daily. There is a PMA as well. São Paulo is the largest city in Brazil and as such has a very sophisticated and excellent medical infrastructure. The HU staff has developed good contacts with several excellent hospitals making access to care comparable to the United States available to Consulate employees and family members.

Recife. There is no HU in the Recife Consulate. A listing of local physicians whose credentials have been reviewed and judged satisfactory by the RMO is available. Supplies of medications are variable, as is the quality of these products. Acute dental care is available but limited in scope. The RMO has designated two hospitals as acceptable for emergency inpatient care. Elective hospitalization and surgery locally is considered inadvisable.

Health and Medicine

Community Health Last Updated: 10/29/2003 10:51 AM

Bottled water, available on a post-reimbursable basis, is recommended for direct consumption, at all locations. Municipality supplied water is treated and considered acceptable for bathing, laundering, and cooking. Fluoride content is variable and not directly added to bottled water and so fluoride supplementation is advised, for children under the age of twelve. The HUs maintain supplies of fluoride supplement.

Food inspection and cleanliness of marketed meats and produce is very variable. Fruits and vegetables that are eaten uncooked and or unpeeled should be thoroughly washed and soaked in a disinfecting solution prior to consumption. Meats should be cooked thoroughly. Adequate pasteurization of dairy products is much improved but still variable and “long life” milk is recommended. Likewise, restaurant inspection is less enforced than in the United States. It is advisable to keep this constantly in mind and use discretion in ordering choices, and particularly to be careful with buffet type presentations in regard to freshness and adequacy of food chilling.

Several insect borne diseases are a problem in different areas of Brazil. In the Amazon and Northern regions malaria and Chagas disease are endemic. Dengue fever, a mosquito-transmitted viral illness, is becoming more disseminated throughout the country. To date, Brasília and São Paulo are still considered nonendemic cities. There is no vaccine available for dengue fever. The malaria in Brazil is considered chloroquine-resistant. When travel into endemic regions is contemplated, you are advised to contact the HU in Brasília regarding current recommendations regarding prophylactic medication. As important, is to make provision for avoidance of mosquito bites by means of protective clothing, bed netting, and insect repellants. Schistosomiasis, a tissue-invasive worm infestation, is present throughout the countryside. The parasite is transmitted by a microscopic water dwelling larval form, which can invade through the skin unnoticed. Bathing in lakes and river pools is inadvisable because of this organism.

Viral hepatitis, both A and B types, is a significant danger in Brazil and immunization for both is strongly recommended. Tuberculosis is a widespread illness in the country and biannual skin testing for the disease is appropriate. The incidence of HIV-AIDS is rapidly increasing in Brazil. Appropriate protective measures and diligent awareness of the problem are essential. Education of potentially at-risk individuals is well advised.

Rabies is present in the country, but not in sufficient intensity to warrant universal immunization for individuals. Pets accompanying the employee should be current in rabies vaccination.

Environmental hazards include heat prostration, air pollution in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, dehydration during the dry season (May–October) particularly in Brasília, and sun exposure-related skin problems. Liberal use of sun screens lotions/creams while outdoors along with wearing protective clothing and headgear is a good habit to develop.

Health and Medicine

Preventive Measures Last Updated: 10/29/2003 10:52 AM

The Department of State requires all personnel to be immunized against yellow fever. Likewise, immunization against polio, typhoid fever, tetanus, diphtheria, and hepatitis A and B should be current for personnel coming to Brazil. Due to Brasília’s elevation and proximity to the equator, the sun’s ultraviolet rays are more intense and hence more dangerous to skin exposed to the sun. It is important to protect against this hazard with clothing, hats, and sunscreen application.

Persons with ongoing health problems requiring medication or medical appliances and equipment should bring several months’ supply of the prescribed drugs along with them. Spares or at least an identified APO-compliant source for any specific equipment requirements, for example the supplies for self-test blood sugar instruments, should be arranged before leaving the U.S. If you use corrective lenses, bring an extra pair of glasses as well as the lens prescription with you, the same applies to contact lenses. The local supply of these items is actually quite adequate, but some delay may be involved in the replacement process.

The FSHP in Brasília and the RMO in Santiago are always available to discuss medical situations or answer questions from personnel throughout the country.

Assistance is just a phone call away.

Employment for Spouses and Dependents Last Updated: 10/29/2003 10:53 AM

Large posts may have clerical, secretarial, administrative, consular, or community liaison officer (CLO) positions available on a part or full-time basis. Clerical and/or accounting skills are useful. The commissaries in Brasília and São Paulo employ spouses as managers and clerks. American schools employ spouses and eligible family members (EFMs) in teaching and clerical positions when needed. Some spouses and EFMs teach English at binational centers, language institutes, and as tutors. Numerous volunteer opportunities exist through local churches, orphanages, and hospitals.

A bilateral work agreement between Brazil and the U.S. went into effect on July 8, 1987. This agreement allows EFMs of a member of a diplomatic mission, consular office, or mission to an international organization to receive authorization to work in Brazil. For the purpose of this agreement EFMs are: a) spouse; b) single children under age 21; c) single children under age 25 who are studying full time at universities; and d) single children with physical or mental handicaps. Before a dependent can begin working for pay, a formal request by the Embassy must be made to the Ministry of External Relations. In cases of professions that require special qualifications, the dependent will not be exempt. The EFMs will also not be exempt from fulfilling local tax and social security obligations. This agreement does not affect EFMs’ employment by the Embassy, Consulates, or Consulates General. It is possible for spouses to locate interesting opportunities for professional growth and development in their field, particularly in the larger cities with competent professionals, many of whom have studied in the U.S.

There are often opportunities for eligible family members (EFMs) to serve as Consular Assistants or Consular Associates in the Non-Immigrant Visa Unit of the Consular Section, especially during peak periods (traditionally May–August and November–February). Eligible Family Members already in Washington, or able to travel via Washington, should consider taking the ConGen Rosslyn Consular Training Course at the Foreign Service Institute. Successful completion of the course is required for appointment as a Consular Associate and authorization to perform visa adjudication functions, and will enhance one’s employability in the Consular Section. Post also participates in the Professional Associate Program.

American Embassy - Brasilia

Post City Last Updated: 12/2/2003 10:13 AM

The American Embassy is located in the city of Brasília, one of the wonders of the modern world. Modern buildings, a futuristic city design and road system, rolling landscape, and a lake are features of the city. Brasília, 600 air miles northwest of Rio de Janeiro in the central plateau of Brazil, is similar in topography and vegetation to western Texas. The Federal District, home of Brasília and its satellite cities, lies within the State of Goiás and comprises some 2,200 square miles. The District lies at the junction of the headwaters of three major Brazilian river systems, with an elevation of about 3,700 feet.

Brasília is growing steadily but retains many U.S. small-town characteristics, such as an emphasis on family life. People are friendly and lifestyles tend to be informal.

Construction of Brasília began in 1957. In 1960, the city formally became the capital of Brazil. Over the next decade, the President, Congress, Federal Supreme Court, Foreign Ministry, and most other government agencies moved to Brasília from the former capital, Rio de Janeiro. All official acts are signed in Brasília, and all embassies are here.

Brasília’s demographics and economy make it a unique city. Brasília’s standard of living (the highest in Brazil) is stable due to regular employment in the government. Indeed, most of the population depends either directly or indirectly on government employment. Locals consider Brasília as being on the Plano Piloto, while other cities in the Federal District are satellite cities. Satellite cities, originally created to house construction workers early in Brasília’s history and intended to disappear after construction was completed, have remained to be Brasília’s suburbs. Although construction workers originally populated them, skilled and semi-skilled workers and government bureaucrats now mostly populate satellite cities.

The city’s population comes from all parts of Brazil and is heterogeneous. The native population is small. The appearance, thinking, and idiosyncrasies common to each area within Brazil are present in Brasília. People consider themselves state citizens and form close associations with state groups.

Brazilians rely heavily on the family unit, spend their free time together, and depend on one another for assistance. The big Sunday family dinner is far more common here than in the U.S. Although some Brasilienses speak English, Portuguese is important for dealing with any stratum of Brazilian society. Limited recreational facilities and cultural activities, close living, and isolation can be problems, unless you develop hobbies or other leisure-time activities. Most who have served here have found life in Brasília pleasant.

Outside the official Embassy community, most Americans living in Brasília are missionaries, farmers who only work part of the year within the Federal District, and teachers employed by the American School.

Brasília’s moderate temperatures make the climate pleasant. Winter temperatures drop as low as 55°F at night and reach about 80°F during the day. Summer temperatures average from 65°F to 85°F. Average relative humidity varies from 50% to 70% during the summer’s rainy season. Rainfall averages 60 inches annually, falling mostly between October and April. During this period, mildew is sometimes a problem. During the rainy season, flash storms bring several inches of rain in a short time. It rains in the morning or afternoon, followed by clear skies. Brasília has spectacular sunrises; the sunsets are equally breathtaking.

The dry season, from April to September, has little or no rainfall, with humidity as low as 10%. Days are warm, but nights are cool.

Although pests do not plague Brasília, ants, roaches, mosquitoes, flies, lizards and spiders are sometimes plentiful. Snakes are not generally found in populated areas.

The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 10/29/2003 2:29 PM

The Embassy was established in 1960 after Brasília was inaugurated as the new capital. The U.S. Ambassador established his principal residence in Brasília in 1970.

The American Embassy in Brasília consists of Political, Economic, Consular, Public Affairs, and Administrative Sections. Defense Attach‚ Office, Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Foreign Commercial Service (USCS), Military Liaison Group (MLO), Bureau of Reclamation (BUREC), and a USAID office are also integral parts of the Embassy operation. A Marine Detachment guards the Embassy.

The Public Affairs Office maintains a complete installation in Brasília, including a computerized information center. Three binational centers, known as the Casa Thomas Jefferson, exist in Brasília. They house cultural centers and non-profit English-language teaching institutes.

The chancery houses all U.S. agencies represented in Brasília, except BUREC and part of MLO, and is located at:

SES 801 – Lote 3 Avenida das Nações C.E.P. 70403–900 Brasília, D. F.

The Embassy telephone numbers are 061–321–7272 and 321–5224.

Housing

Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:05 AM

In most instances, permanent quarters are available for occupancy on arrival. Every effort is made to move people into their permanent quarters within 30 days of arrival. Transient quarters and/or hotels are used in the event quarters are not immediately available.

Housing

Permanent Housing Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:06 AM

The U.S. Government owns approximately 90 apartments and houses in Brasília. However, one entire building and part of another are being sold; therefore, employees are increasingly housed in short-term lease (STL) apartments and houses. The Mission uses A-171 guidelines to assign housing through the Embassy Interagency Housing Board (IAHB). Quarters are assigned based on family size and position rank.

All houses and apartments have servants’ quarters of varying sizes.

Parking is available at all apartment buildings. Some have basement garages, but some use carports or a public parking lot.

Although Brasília is a limited-shipment post, many apartments will not accommodate 7,200 pounds of household effects (HHE); you must pay any local storage. Accordingly, you may wish to store more items than usual in the United States.

Brazilian TVs receive NTSC transmissions only in black and white. In order for a Brazilian TV (which operates on the PAL-M system) to receive NTSC transmission in color, you must install an individual transcoder, which costs about $130 (borne by the employee). If you buy a Brazilian PAL-M TV, the AFRTS will be received in black and white and Brazilian TV in color. Dual system TVs (NTSC/PAL-M) are available from local stores or at the duty-free store.

The U.S. Government owns 12 houses in Brasília. Other houses are leased. Of the 12 government-owned houses, 6 have swimming pools; most have carports. Furnishings are provided, including lawn furniture. At government-owned houses, all maintenance and repair work except lawn and garden care is handled by the Embassy. At leased houses, the Embassy handles routine repairs, but major repairs are the landlord’s responsibility.

Housing

Furnishings Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:07 AM

Residential furnishings are provided. In addition to full sets of furniture, furnishings include curtains, draperies, and rugs.

Most people bring some furniture and other household items in their limited shipment, such as foot stools, a vacuum cleaner, pictures, wastebaskets, fans, a full-length mirror, bric-a-brac, and those personal items that make a house a home. Some families have hired carpenters to build bookshelves, extra coffee tables, and other items. Due to the considerable variation between the dry and wet seasons, veneers prepared for temperate zones may separate; softwoods warp. Small household items may be ordered through mail-order houses. Artificial Christmas trees are also useful items to bring in your shipment.

GSO has bridge tables and chairs, china, and glassware that may be borrowed for specific occasions.

The Embassy reimburses gardening fees for heads of agencies. All other employees assigned to houses who hire gardeners do so at their own expense. Bring a lawnmower and other garden tools if you have them. Gardeners rarely have their own equipment, and they expect these tools to be provided. All routine swimming pool care and maintenance is the responsibility of the occupant. Major repairs or maintenance, except for USG-owned houses, are the responsibility of the landlord, who is contacted by GSO.

Housing

Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:08 AM

Electrical power in the city is 220v, 60 cycles, single phase. Transformers are available locally, but are expensive. Bring your 110v, 60-cycle appliances. Most wall sockets accept either U.S. or European-style plugs. Government-owned- and -leased homes and apartments are transformed by the Embassy to 110v, 60-cycles. Those few persons in private leases arrange to transform their own houses and are reimbursed through their allowances. The Embassy services and repairs only Embassy-provided equipment and appliances.

Each residential unit is furnished with a refrigerator and freezer, a gas range, a washer and gas dryer. Air conditioners are installed in each occupied bedroom, and at those apartments with high levels of outside ambient noise, also in each living/dining room. Houses do not have air conditioners in living/dining rooms. The government pays for reasonable costs of gas, electricity, and water at all government-owned or -leased homes. One telephone per house is authorized, but extensions can be installed. The monthly telephone charges are the personal responsibility of the occupant.

Those persons aware in advance that they will be assigned to a house with a pool may wish to include a skimmer with a long handle in their HHE. These are available locally, but are costly. If possible, correspond with previous occupants of the house regarding pool equipment needed. Individuals may contract with weekly pool cleaning services that include chemicals. Few pools have filtration systems.

Food Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:09 AM

Brasília has several well-stocked, large supermarkets. Vegetables and fruits are in good supply. They can also be purchased in small shops, Japanese markets, or from large, open, suburban markets where fruits and vegetables are fresher, cheaper, and found in greater quantity and variety. Frozen meats and prepared foods are available.

Almost all American-type fresh fruits and vegetables are available. Tropical fruits such as papaya, pineapple, mango, tamarind, passion fruit, sweetsop, Chinese gooseberry, and even more exotic fruits are available seasonally. Other fruits such as strawberries, apples, grapes, pears, peaches and nectarines are imported. Standard U.S. beef cuts are not widely available, but Brazilian cuts are acceptable. Beef filet, chicken, and fresh pork are excellent. Lamb is also available. Fresh and frozen fish are abundant, but shellfish is expensive. Local fresh, pasteurized, powdered, and long-life milk are available. Dairy products, such as butter, cream, yogurt, and cheese, are available in grocery stores, cheese stores, health food stores, delicatessens, and bakeries.

Brasília has many good restaurants. Chinese, French and Mexican cuisine is available, as well as outstanding, traditional Brazilian barbecued meat (churrasco), and other national and international dishes. The American fast-food chains McDonald’s and Arby’s have representation here, too.

Clothing

Men Last Updated: 12/2/2003 10:15 AM

Summer and spring suits are worn year round. Bring primarily lightweight suits and one or two medium weight suits for the cool season. Generally, the quality of dry-cleaners is good, but expensive. Slacks and sports shirts (short- or long-sleeved) are suitable for off-duty hours. Bring a variety of clothes for a warm climate, from casual to semi-formal. Sport jackets, sweaters, light jackets, and windbreakers are comfortable during the cool season. Local clothing prices vary from city to city and U.S. sizes are not always available. Styles are more European than American.

Senior officers need a tuxedo; other officers rarely need one for official functions. Most men wear a tuxedo to the Marine Ball, and these can be rented locally, although dark business suits are equally acceptable. You do not need white tie or morning clothes. All officers should have a dark business suit. White dinner jackets are not worn in Brasília. Bring a supply of socks, shirts, shoes, and underwear.

Clothing

Women Last Updated: 12/2/2003 10:15 AM

Fashion-conscious Brazilian women follow all the latest trends abroad, and have some of their own. Although entertaining is informal, elegant sports clothes are often worn. You can buy chic well-made clothing, but prices are high. Cotton suits and lightweight knit dresses can be worn during the cool and rainy seasons and evenings. Some warmer clothing is occasionally necessary. Except for the rainy period, days are often hot, so bring cotton and synthetic blends. If you are planning to travel to Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, or south of Brasília during winter, you will need winter clothes. Generally, informality prevails in Brasília. However, eveningwear is often considered “elegant casual.” Formal evening gowns are worn to the yearly Marine Ball. They are also required at the few official state receptions and diplomatic black-tie dinners given each year. Bring appropriate clothes for cocktail parties, luncheons, teas, and small dinner parties. Bring patterns, fabric, and notions if you sew or would like to utilize the excellent tailoring services available. A variety of fabrics and some notions are available locally, but in general they are inferior and expensive.

Bring sweaters or lightweight jackets for occasional cooler days and nights of the rainy season and the evenings of the dry season. A raincoat may be too warm, but an umbrella is essential. Wool slacks and long-sleeved blouses or dresses for cool, rainy days and a warm robe are welcome.

Bring plenty of sportswear, including washable slacks and shorts. Local prices for underwear and beach ensembles are high. Women’s and girl’s swimwear is available in all sizes, but run small. Brazilian swimwear, even one-piece suits, exposes more than U.S. styles. Sun hats are advisable.

Bring shoes or leave shoe size with a U.S. store and order as needed. All types of shoes, sandals, and tennis shoes are found in Bras¡lia, but it is difficult to find good fits, particularly for half and narrow sizes. Brazil manufactures many kinds of footwear available at a variety of prices, though for the most part the quality is inferior to shoes found in the U.S.

Clothing

Children Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:13 AM

Bring washable children’s clothing, swimwear, and shoes. Include sweaters and lightweight jackets for cool nights and mornings. Blue jeans are a must for outside play. Light-colored play clothes stain easily from Brasília’s red clay. Dress at the American School is informal; both boys and girls may wear jeans. Elementary school-aged children wear shorts with short-sleeved shirts or T-shirts most of the year. Clothing may be ordered through catalogs from the U.S. and shipped via APO.

Supplies and Services Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:14 AM

The Embassy Special Services Association (ESSA)

ESSA provides various services to American personnel at the Embassy. A modest post commissary sells beverages, cigarettes, canned and packaged goods, housekeeping items and commonly used toiletries. Special orders are possible and can be arranged by contacting the commissary manager. However, given order lead-time, you cannot be sure special needs will be in stock. The commissary does not stock baby food and has a limited variety/supply of diapers, so it is wise to bring a supply to post or order from suppliers in the States. Almost all these items are available on the local market, though brands and quality vary and prices are generally more expensive.

Rental cars are also available for newly arrived direct hires.

ESSA has a video club with a large collection of VHS tapes. It also has five TV/VCR set for rent. The nonrefundable membership fee is $25. Video club cards are then purchased against which rentals are deducted. If you are interested in joining, bring your own TV and VCR. Your American color TV will only transmit Brazilian stations in black and white. If you want to watch Brazilian TV in color, you can buy a Brazilian-made TV or have your American TV converted. Movies are also available for rent at local video shops.

All personnel pay an ESSA deposit, refundable on departure, plus an initial amount into the commissary working fund as follows:

Refundable Deposit: $175 for single persons; and $225 for married couples/families

Commissary Working Fund: $200 per person/family. Initial purchases are made against this initial deposit. Subsequently, you are required to keep a positive balance in your commissary account.

Video club rental requires a $175 deposit.

Supplies and Services

Supplies Last Updated: 12/2/2003 10:16 AM

Toiletries and patent medicines of Brazilian manufacture may be bought locally. Many are U.S. brands manufactured under license and are expensive. Bring or order specialty items from the U.S. Bring all essential store items with you such as Tylenol, children’s cough syrup, toothpaste, suntan lotion, contact lens solution, etc. If you have a baby or are expecting, bring all items with you. These items are imported to Brasília and the costs are about double that in the U.S. Baby food and diapers can be ordered through the commissary or the internet Netgrocer shopping service.

You may wish to ship canned pet food to post or order from American supply houses. Litter boxes are not available in Brasília, but the commissary stocks kitty litter. Pet supply stores sell leashes, brushes, flea collars, and a few toys. Pet treats and rawhide chewsticks are available. Fleas are prevalent year round. Consult your veterinarian regarding flea repellants and flea collars. Anti-flea sprays and lotions, shampoos, etc. are roughly twice the price here than they are in the States. Program is also sold here, although it is more expensive than in the States.

Supplies and Services

Basic Services Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:17 AM

Laundry and drycleaning services are available throughout Brasilia. Embassy employees currently have access to shirt laundering/drycleaning through a concession on the Embassy compound. Customers judge the quality to be good, although prices are higher than in the U.S. and in shops outside the Embassy. Bring clothes hangers and, if desired, clothespins.

There is gas available at reasonable prices on the Embassy compound. This gas tends to be better quality than most gas sold locally.

Beauty shops and barbershops do acceptable work and some are reasonably priced. Specialty services such as hair coloring/frosting and perms are generally more expensive than in the U.S. Massages, manicures, and pedicures are available at varying prices. The Embassy has a cafeteria style facility, the Tucano Club, located on the Embassy compound. Along with daily lunches and snacks, the Tucano Club is used for Friday Happy Hour as well as other parties throughout the year.

Supplies and Services

Domestic Help Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:18 AM

Part-time servants usually suffice, although full-time and live-in help are desired by some. Generally, employees occupying houses also employ part-time gardeners and pool cleaners. Although servants can provide an added measure of security, all homes are equipped with alarm systems. Wages vary from USD 150–200 (at an exchange rate of R$ 2 to USD 1) a month for live-in maids, plus the cost of various benefits guaranteed them under Brazil’s Constitution.

In addition to wages, the employer of a live-in servant provides bed linens, towels, food, and, if desired, uniforms. Live-in maids are sometimes scarce, as many prefer to work during the day only. Housekeeping and laundry services are fair, but you must train the maids to use modern appliances. Departing Americans often refer to incoming U.S. personnel well-trained servants who are accustomed to appliances and food preferences of Americans.

Day cleaning personnel currently charge USD 15–20 per day (again, with an exchange rate of R$ 2 to USD 1). They are generally available for 1 or 2 days a week per family, with services divided among two or three employers. Single employees use this plan, and it is becoming the most popular source of domestic help for many families. Most personnel require only one maid to perform necessary services. Couples with children may need more than one or additional part-time help for babysitting. The CLO also maintains a list of available embassy teenagers.

If requested, the Embassy will obtain a police clearance on domestics, but use caution in protecting your valuables. Health clearances are recommended during a trial period. Many servants suffer from intestinal and other infectious diseases.

The 1988 Constitution guarantees various rights to domestic workers. These are explained at length in the literature on “How to Hire a Domestic Employee” found in the Embassy Personnel Department. It is imperative that all employees who plan to hire fulltime servants check with the Personnel Office for a briefing on liability under Brazilian law.

Religious Activities Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:23 AM

Brasília has many Catholic churches. An English-language mass is conducted each Saturday at one of the churches. Several Protestant churches and a Greek Orthodox church have congregations in Brasília. English-language worship services and religious instruction are held Sunday mornings by an interdenominational Protestant group and a Baptist church. A small Jewish cultural association welcomes members from the official and diplomatic communities. Services are conducted weekly and on all holidays at the local synagogue.

Education

Dependent Education

At Post Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:25 AM The American School of Brasília (EAB) was founded in 1964 and offers preschool through grade 12 based on a U.S. public school curriculum. Instruction is in English, but English-speaking students are required to study Portuguese. The school has about 600 students from about 40 countries. Facilities include a soccer/softball field, a library with 10,000 volumes, a science lab, a computer classroom, a gym, and a canteen.

Enrollment is close to school capacity. Personnel planning to send children to this school should notify the Embassy Community Liaison Office (CLO) of their children’s date of birth, current grade level and arrival date as soon as possible.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools of the U.S. accredits the school. The lower school is recognized by the Secretary of Education in the Federal District. The educational allowance currently covers all school expenses for grades K–12. Preschool is not covered by the educational allowance. The school year runs from early August to early June, with a 1-week vacation at Carnaval and a 4-week vacation during the Christmas season.

Some supervised extracurricular sports, as well as other after-school activities including band, are available, though they are quite limited, especially for the lower grades. Bring music materials, as they are expensive in Brasília.

EAB participates in sports and some academic competitions along with other American schools in Brazil and the region, giving students the opportunity to travel and take part in these events while meeting a variety of South American and international students.

The School of Nations. Another school that is used by the diplomatic community in Brasília is the School of Nations, a B’hai school. Only a few Embassy families have used this school, mainly because class instruction is bilingual, one-half in English and one-half in Portuguese. The school is not accredited. The School of Nations offers instruction from pre-kindergarten through 11th grade and offers a US-based curriculum with a strong emphasis on diversity and values.

The Affinity Arts School. Most preschool-aged children from the Embassy attend the Affinity Arts pre-school. There is a strong emphasis on music in the program along with other activities such as language, science, theater, swimming, cooking and playground.

Other schools in the Federal District include public, private, and parochial institutions. Instruction is given from nursery school through grade 12, but not in English. Children with a good background in Portuguese may attend these schools. Note: the Brazilian school year has summer vacation during December, January, and February, with a mid-term break in July.

Education

Dependent Education

Away From Post Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:26 AM The Department of State has deemed the American School of Brasília adequate. Therefore, the “school at post” and “school away from post” rates are identical.

Recreation and Social Life

Sports Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:27 AM

An Embassy recreation area at the Chancery includes a swimming pool and wading pool, volleyball, an exercise room, four tennis courts (two lighted), a playground, and a social clubhouse, the Tucano Club.

Golf Club. Membership is open to diplomatic and staff personnel. Introduction by a member is required. A 6-month nonrenewable membership is available. The club offers an 18-hole golf course, driving range, barbecue facilities, pool, volleyball court, clubhouse, and services of a golf professional. Golfers should bring clubs and carts. The ESSA owns several shares that are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Currently, the initial costs consist of a nonrefundable transfer fee, a refundable deposit, and the first month’s membership fee for a total of approximately $1,000; and then a monthly membership fee of $220.

Sociedade Hipica de Brasília (Horse Riding Club). This is the most complete and centrally located horse-riding club in Brasília. Horses are rented. Nonmembers can ride on weekends at scheduled times. Other facilities include a social clubhouse with bar and restaurant, two swimming pools, tennis court, basketball, volleyball, soccer, and a large riding pavilion. Riding lessons are available.

Other Clubs. The following clubs are available for membership, but memberships are extremely expensive, and thus Embassy personnel tend not to patronize them: the Yacht Club of Brasília (Iate Clube), the Club of Nations (Clube das Nações), and the Bras¡lia Country Club, Cota Mil Yacht Club, and the Academia de Tenis (Tennis Academy). There are numerous commercial health clubs (called academias) whose fees are similar to health-club fees in the U.S.

Recreation and Social Life

Touring and Outdoor Activities Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:31 AM

Brasília’s Lake Parano is beautiful. However, floating debris and raw sewage make all water-related activities in the lake unsafe. Swimming in pools is a popular pastime. Bring diving masks, goggles, and flippers if desired.

Brazil’s national sport is soccer. Numerous games are played in Brasília between various amateur teams, and a small professional league. Brasília has a team in the national league.

Hunting for birds and small game is prohibited in all states except Rio Grande do Sul. Fishing for any but the smallest kinds of fish requires a 3- to 4-hour drive to the Verde River or an 8-hour drive to the Araguaia River in Goiás State. Excellent fishing is found on the Island of Bananal, accessible only by 1½ hours’ flight by small plane.

Brasília offers limited sightseeing with few museums and galleries. A well-laid out zoo houses several species of Brazilian wildlife and is continually expanding. You can view various types of vegetation and plant life can be seen at the botanical reserve.

Brasília’s TV tower is the fourth tallest in the world at 715 feet. Oscar Niemeyer, the famous architect who designed much of Brasília, designed it. The top of the tower is 4,403 feet above sea level, and a lookout platform provides a panoramic view of the city and surrounding countryside. A “hippie” fair, featuring handicrafts, clothes, shoes, and wood and leather items, is held at the foot of the tower on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. There is a lovely gem museum located on the Center level of the TV tower. At Christmas, the tower is strung with lights to resemble an enormous Christmas tree.

An outstanding landmark in Brasília is the national flag flown on Three Powers Square. The enormous 286-square meter flag flies from a 100-meter high flagpole that consists of 22 joined staffs representing the states of Brazil. A different Brazilian state donates a new flag on the first Sunday of every third month. The new flag is raised amidst a colorful ceremony with music and traditional folk dancing.

In late June, Bras¡lia hosts the “Feira dos Estados,” a charity state fair including state displays, local products, regional cuisine for sale, folk dancing performances, and a midway. Representatives of foreign countries also participate.

In May, one of the liveliest and most colorful festivals is the Cavalhadas in Pirenópolis, about 2 hours from Brasília. During this brilliant pageant, richly caparisoned horses and riders simulate ancient Iberian Peninsula tournaments. Both fine horsemanship and wild stunt riding by masked riders are displayed in this fascinating folk festival.

Driving outside Brasília can be a pleasant pastime. The town of Cristalina, a gem seeker’s paradise, is about 2 hours south of Brasília. The shops located around the town-square offer Brazilian precious and semiprecious stones and other gifts or souvenirs. You can visit some working pit mines a short drive out of town. A quaint country restaurant serving local fare is located in Luziania, mid-way between Brasília and Cristalina, and is a popular place to stop for lunch when returning from a shopping expedition.

Goiánia, about 2–3 hours southwest of Brasília, is the capital of Goiás and its largest city. The city, founded in 1933, is a planned city like Brasília. With an altitude much lower than Brasília’s, it is warmer and more humid. Goiánia is a pretty town with tree-lined streets, interesting 1930s architecture, a centralized shopping center, good hotels, tall apartment buildings, and some excellent restaurants. On weekends, a “hippie fair” offers a variety of goods and crafts.

The beautiful Itiquira waterfalls, amid a rugged terrain, are located 2 hours north of Brasília over newly paved roads. For those interested in a health spa, a first-class resort hotel and several warm, natural pools are located near Caldas Novas, about 5 hours from Brasília in Goiás. Visit this resort for a relaxing 3-day weekend.

Travel to São Paulo—Brazil’s largest city, or to Rio de Janeiro—world famous for its natural beauty—for a real change of pace and scenery. By highway, Rio is 753 miles and 15–20 hours away; São Paulo is 627 miles from Brasília with driving time of 14–17 hours. Frequent air connections to both cities are available. Air travel time is about 1½ hours.

If you want to leave the main road, secondary roads are often unpaved and difficult. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are useful, especially for camping.

There are two softball seasons, and several co-ed teams, with participants from the American and international community. Bowling is available at Park Shopping.

The Parque da Cidade (City Park), located in Asa Sul, offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as bicycle riding, jogging, walking, paddleboats, children’s amusement park, barbecue sites, etc. Additionally, one of the main highways is closed on Sundays and made available to bicyclists and joggers.

Recreation and Social Life

Entertainment Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:32 AM

Dinner parties, cookouts, and casual buffets are popular forms of home entertainment. The American Embassy has a weekly happy hour at the embassy dining facility (The Tucano Club), as do the British and Canadian embassies. The Marines host several events at the Marine House including picnics with volleyball and swimming, and also happy hours with darts and pool available. Groups meet for bridge and poker. The American Women’s Club International (AWCI) organizes monthly meetings with speakers on various topics. Weekly and monthly AWCI activity groups meet to enjoy such things as tennis, bridge, playgroup, Portuguese conversation and social services work, to name just a few. The AWCI book clubs buy a wide selection of current bestsellers with membership fees. The American School sponsors a Christmas Bazaar, Fun Run, International Fair, Flea Market, and two stage productions which are attended by the Brasília community at large. The Casa Thomas Jefferson, which is actually three Brazilian-American binational centers, sponsors art exhibits and musical events that feature both American and Brazilian artists and performers.

Brasília has many movie theaters. Admission costs are comparable to the U.S. English-language films are popular. Most films are American originals with Portuguese subtitles. Children’s films tend to be dubbed. Some French and Italian films are also shown in the respective embassies as well as in Brazilian theaters.

The National Theater presents concerts and occasionally has ballet or other dance performances. The circus comes to town once a year, as do various foreign performers. The University of Brasília holds interesting performances by staff members in its music school. Military and police groups hold parades and other activities on various national holidays. Americans are welcome at all cultural and national celebrations.

Brasília has some nightclubs; most have dancing, some have floorshows. Several popular discotheques attract various age groups. Outdoor cafes featuring drinks and snacks are popular evening meeting places.

Shopping malls have movie theaters, a variety of shops and eateries. Park Shopping, adjacent to one of the largest supermarkets in the area, has eleven movie theaters, a 24 lane bowling alley built by Brunswick, a McDonald’s, an international food court, and approximately 175 shops. Many other new malls have been built recently, including Brasília Shopping and Patio Brasil, each with stores, eateries and move theaters. There is an arcade with small amusement rides and video games, and an indoor skating rink during the Christmas holidays.

Recreation and Social Life

Social Activities

Among Americans Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:33 AM The Embassy community sponsors children’s Halloween, Christmas and Easter parties and a family Fourth of July picnic. The annual November Marine Ball is one of the more popular functions.

Also, Embassy officers sponsor numerous representational functions to which Embassy staff members are often invited.

Recreation and Social Life

Social Activities

International Contacts Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:33 AM Numerous opportunities exist for meeting Brazilians and third country nationals. Most Brazilians are interested in knowing Americans and are willing to establish friendships. Brazilians are met both officially in connection with work and unofficially at various clubs and social functions.

Official Functions

Nature of Functions Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:34 AM

Embassy staff members assist the Chief of Mission in entertaining guests at official or semiofficial functions, ensuring that they have a pleasant and rewarding experience. At official or semiofficial functions, guests from all agencies and at all levels are encouraged to meet and mingle with people from all levels of the Brazilian community.

Official Functions

Standards of Social Conduct Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:35 AM

The number of calling cards varies according to type and amount of social activity. Bring at least 100 personal cards. Married officers may wish to include a small supply of “Mr. and Mrs.” cards. Foldover cards (informal) may be useful. Additional cards can be acquired locally upon arrival.

Special Information Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:46 AM

U.S. Defense Attaché‚ Office — PRIVATE. The principal U.S. Defense Attaché‚ Office (DAO) is located in the American Embassy. A branch office is located in the Consulate General at Rio de Janeiro.

Mailing addresses are as follows:

USDAO Brasília UNIT 3500 American Embassy APO AA 34030

USDAO Rio de Janeiro UNIT 3501 American Consulate Rio APO AA 34030

Attachés are assigned as follows: Brasília — the Defense and Army Attaché, Air Attaché‚ Naval Attaché‚ Assistant Army Attaché‚ and Assistant Air Attaché; Rio de Janeiro Assistant Naval Attaché‚ (the attaché‚ in Rio de Janeiro is not accredited).

Attachés and staff are authorized to wear civilian clothing (shirt and tie or ladies equivalent) at the office. Attachés are required to wear uniforms when visiting military installations and at special functions. Bring adequate civilian clothing; local prices are expensive. Clothes can be ordered from U.S. catalog stores; uniforms can be ordered from AAFES catalog services.

Officers accredited to the host government must arrive on Station with the following uniforms:

Army: 1 green uniform, with extra slacks and shirts, 1 blue uniform, 1 set of BDU’s

Air Force: 1 blue service uniform, 1 blue ceremonial uniform, 4 short sleeve blue combo

Navy: 4 summer whites, 2 service dress whites, 1 dinner dress white mess jacket, 1 service dress blue

One dinner dress blue mess jacket and trousers with formal shirt, black bow tie, sword, miniature medals, gloves, large medals, ribbons are all required.

The Operations Coordinator and Non-Commissioned Officers must wear uniforms when they visit host nation installations. The Operations Coordinator should bring a blue uniform in addition to greens and several Class B uniforms. NCO’s must have one complete winter and summer uniform. OpsCo and Staff “work” VIP visits to include official receptions, the Marine Corps Ball and other events that require dress uniform with ribbons and badges.

Accredited personnel must arrive on Station with complete service and dress uniforms with accessories, including miniature medals and service and dress aiguillettes, available for immediate use. All assigned military personnel should arrive on Station in civilian clothing unless otherwise notified that honors will be rendered at the airport. Military full dress uniforms can take the place of formal civilian clothing. Spouses of principal and assistant attach‚s should arrive on Station with an adequate supply of formal and informal attire. Normally, cocktail functions are dressy; short dresses are acceptable. The trend is to dress well even though the invitation reads “informal.” Eveningwear is long skirts or long dresses.

Housings/Furnishings

In both Brasília and Rio de Janeiro DAO personnel are assigned to a combination government owned, government-leased or private-leased residences. Personnel in the pipeline must contact the DAO Operations Coordinator to obtain information on Housing Board assignments.

Types of leases and amount of furnishings available for DAO personnel continue to change on a yearly basis. Personnel should contact the DAO for current information concerning furnishings and appliances that will be available. DIA (DHA) usually has a housing file on each residence assigned to DAO personnel. The file contains a furnishings list and usually has a floor plan and photographs of the residence. Personnel on a private lease will be authorized a full JFTR shipment of HHE; personnel in government owned or government leased quarters are on a case-by-case basis.

Start-Up Costs/Finances/Currency

Families traveling to DAO Brazil should have at least $3,000 for initial expenses. Initial expenses include, but are not limited to temporary lodging expenses, meals, car rental, local transport. Temporary Lodging Allowance claims are processed at the Financial Management Center in Brasília. A family of four can expect to seek reimbursement for hotel costs every ten days, a cycle that ties up as much as $200.00 a day in lodging costs. TLA reimbursement vouchers are processed as quickly as possible.

Personnel going into private lease quarters should obtain a full desk side briefing from their finance clerk CONUS in before departure. There is a series of reports to be submitted in order to draw housing allowances, advance rent, moving in housing allowances, etc. It is the responsibility of the newcomer to be aware of the bureaucratic process.

It is suggested that all personnel participate in a direct deposit program and have their major credit card paid automatically by their servicing financial institution. The mail service is such that credit card invoices often arrive after the due date.

Calling Cards

Attachés should bring about 100 calling cards for immediate use upon arrival. Printing should be done in English and in the style on file at the Attaché School. Only diplomatic personnel have an official need for cards. “Mr. (rank) and Mrs.” cards and informal are used socially. A minimum of 100 each is useful. Additional cards can be acquired locally after arrival. Official invitations are printed on DAO laser printers using stock furnished by each individual attach‚ (invitation card with Service seal and matching envelope required).

Household Effects and Airfreight

Shipment of HHE and UAB to Brazil takes about 4–6 weeks. All HHE and UAB come to Brazil via military air. Forward copies of any shipping documents to the DAO in order to expedite customs declarations.

Privately Owned Conveyance (POC) (aka the family car)

There is a prohibition against shipping diesel-powered cars (off the road vehicles, four wheel drive, trucks are permitted — if in doubt send a message or FAX to the DAO). Obtain prior permission from the Embassy General Services Officer to ship your POC. The GSO will reply by message or FAX with approval or disapproval.

If approved, drop your POC off at the MTMC outport and proceed to Brazil. After your arrival in Brazil, when your duty free status is being normalized, a message will be sent to the outport authorizing shipment of your POC to the port of entry (Rio de Janeiro). If your duty Station is other than Rio de Janeiro the POC will be shipped overland to your duty location. It is imperative that you retain in your possession any and all documents showing value of the POC, engine size, displacement of the cylinders in cubic centimeters, color, VIN, etc. This data must be provided to the GSO when you request authority to import a vehicle and the documents, in conjunction with the Ocean Bill of Lading, are very important when in-processing.

Post Orientation Program

Briefings are arranged for new arrivals on general conditions in Brasília and on necessary procedures for getting a driver’s license, a diplomatic identity card, and other administrative matters. Each new arrival receives a welcome kit that includes information on health-related matters, shopping, protocol, activities, Portuguese vocabulary for food and other necessities, school materials, and points of interest in and near the city. Periodically, a special orientation program is conducted for all newcomers, including eligible family members (EFMs), to provide an overview of the Embassy and its functions.

Post-language classes are subject to availability of funds by the agency that sends the student to language class. Employees with language-designated positions should ensure that they are enrolled for an adequate amount of training at NFATC. Other employees and EFMs are strongly encouraged to enroll in the eight week FAST course, time and classroom space permitting.

Consulate General - Rio de Janeiro

Post City Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:48 AM

Rio de Janeiro, the center of a metropolitan area of about 14 million people, offers one of the world’s most beautiful physical settings. Set adjacent to an ocean bay off the Atlantic Ocean and facing south, Rio is surrounded by mountains with spectacular formations and tropical greenery, and is truly what its residents, the Cariocas, call the Cidade Maravilhosa (marvelous city). Its landmarks are the striking Sugar Loaf Mountain (Pão de Açucar) and Corcovado Mountain with its famous Christ Statue overlooking the city. Brazil’s seasons are the reverse of those in the U.S., with summer from December to March. Rio’s normal temperatures range from 75 to 95ºF. Extremes vary from 40ºF during winter to 105ºF in the hot, humid summer. Intense rainfall also occurs throughout the year and may occasionally cause severe flooding within the city itself. Infrequent landslides affect housing on mountain slopes in densely populated slum areas known as favelas.

The city was Brazil’s capital until 1960, and many government offices are located here. Rio is a focus of transportation, communications, military, cultural, and journalistic activity. However, its history is as a seashore resort famous for its beaches, Carnaval, and its outgoing people. But the continued population increase within Rio has created other problems common to a megalopolis: traffic congestion, air and noise pollution, and a high crime rate. Pollution and crime have, in fact, jeopardized the traditional tourist industry. The Department of State has designated the crime threat rating level for Rio as critical.

While Rio is cosmopolitan, Portuguese is necessary for everyday use (shopping, newspapers, and social events). Its beaches are often a focal point for recreational activities but they can be overcrowded and polluted. Few Consulate General personnel can pass for Cariocas on the beach because of dress and mannerisms, yet mix easily with the community.

Cariocas commonly refer to Rio being divided into three residential areas: Zona Sul (South Zone) and Zona Norte (North Zone) and Barra da Tijuca. There is a mountain range, which forms a spectacular, scenic separation between the zones. The Zona Sul area is significantly smaller, less than 1 million people, and is also the area where virtually all official Americans reside. The sparsely populated area known as Centro, locale of the Consulate General, separates the relatively more affluent south zone from poorer neighborhoods in the north zone. Most visiting personnel know little about Zona Norte except for the transit glimpses on the roads to the international airport.

Another fast-growing and relatively new part of Rio de Janeiro is the southern suburb of Barra da Tijuca. This area which was once considered out of town is the fastest growing district in the city. Barra da Tijuca features several large shopping centers as well as large megamarkets, which include everything from groceries to clothes to hardware to car supplies (i.e., similar to Super Walmarts in the States). In addition to the shopping, dozens of new condominiums have sprung up. American fast food outlets are common. Office parks are also being built, not to mention major amusement parks. Barra da Tijuca is also home to the cleanest beaches in the city of Rio de Janeiro.

The American community in Rio is fairly large, with about 6,000 registered at the Consulate General. Only a relatively small number participate in activities that bring the expatriate community together. Rio’s American Society organization is active and welcomes Consulate General support. The American business community in Rio is strongly represented with Fortune 500 firms. The American Chamber of Commerce meets regularly and maintains full-time offices. However, significant reductions in the presence of American businessmen have had a marked affect on community life, including reduced enrollment by American students at the American School of Rio.

The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:50 AM

The Rio Consular District includes Brazilian states of Bahia, Espirito Santo, Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, and Sergipe — some 50 million people and an economy exceeding $200 billion. The Consulate General has an economic/political, management, public affairs, and large consular section. The Library of Congress also has a major presence. The Department of Defense includes the Assistant Defense Attaché‚ Office (DAO), and various officers assigned under military exchange programs. Other agencies include the Foreign Commercial Service (USCS), and Voice of America (VOA). The Consulate General has a cafeteria providing breakfast and lunch options at reasonable prices to complement downtown area restaurants. Citibank operates a branch office onsite offering currency exchange and other financial services.

The official staffing complement is 45 direct-hire American Positions and roughly 140 Foreign Service Nationals serving all agencies. While the military component in these numbers is significant, many are assigned as students or teachers in cooperative agreements with the Brazilian military. All offices, except VOA’s are located in the 13 story Consulate General in downtown Rio. This building was the site of the Embassy until 1972 and overlooks Guanabara Bay. However, the Consulate General will be moving to a newly built facility sometime at some point in the future. Current office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., Monday through Friday. The address is Avenida Presidente Wilson, 147; telephone 2292–7117 (from U.S. use prefix 011–55–21); fax is 2220–0439.

A designated sponsor and/or a representative of their agency meet newcomers on arrival. Please inform Management Office of arrival time and flight number and accompanying dependents and pets. Please be aware that visas are required before arrival; the Brazilian Government does not authorize airport or temporary visas. The Management Section assists new arrivals with issuance of identity cards, customs clearance or personal effects, and for certain employees, housing. The Community Liaison Officer (CLO) is a key resource for an introduction to Rio, including information on schools and domestic help. The International Newcomers Club and the American Society of Rio de Janeiro also have information on things of interest when moving to Rio de Janeiro.

Housing

Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 10/28/2003 10:42 AM

New arrivals being provided USG leased apartments (State and USCS) are generally assigned directly into their permanent housing, as designated by the Consulate General Housing Board. Hospitality kits, including dishes, kitchen utensils, and linens, are available or such personnel until their baggage and household effects arrive. Military and other civilian personnel are required to find their own apartments under post policy and are provided living quarters allowances (LQA) rather than housing support by the Administrative Section. New arrivals under LQA will require hotel accommodations. All LQA housing must be approved in advance of contract negotiation by the Interagency Housing Board and requires management review with focus on size, location and security concerns.

Hotels in Rio vary greatly in price, but acceptable accommodations within temporary lodging allowances are generally available. Almost no hotels accept pets; boarding kennels charge about $20 daily, but rates vary.

Housing

Permanent Housing Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:51 AM

All housing in Rio, except for the USG-owned residence of the consul general and USG-leased Marine residence, are leased apartments. Private houses are not an option due to security considerations. Almost all USG leased apartments are in the Zona Sul neighborhoods such as Botafogo, Flamengo, Ipanema, Lagoa and Leblon. No leased residences are designated for specific employees. Privately leased apartments sometimes are located in the more remote suburbs of Barra da Tijuca and São Conrado but receive reduced support from the Management Section, under ICASS. Apartments typically are in high-rise buildings that sometimes have small bedrooms and kitchens, and offer limited storage space. Apartments are generally leased with a minimum of one parking space within the premises. The Consulate General Housing Board makes housing assignments according to rank and family size. Certain apartment buildings, including some of those within the USG leased apartment inventory, will not accept pets.

Housing

Furnishings Last Updated: 10/29/2003 11:52 AM

The standard for government-leased apartments is basic furniture, gas stove, refrigerator, washer and dryer. Air-conditioners are provided for each occupied bedroom. Curtains are also provided but