mvs

Is it critical to learn some portuguese in order to communicate at restaurants/bars, etc. in Rio? I always try to learn the basics of the language of the country I am travelling to (Italy, Germany, etc.) but am a little intimidated by this one. Thank you in advance for your help.

msteacher

I got by knowing two words... Bom Dia (pronounced like bom jia) is good morning and Obregada (or obregado for men) is thank you.

Travel_Ty

Don't be intimidated! Cariocas (as they call people from Rio) are very welcoming to tourists. I think you can get by in English okay, but learning a few of the basics may be helpful! Boa sorte!

msteacher

I almost forgot... another word you need to know is caipirinha (order one in a bar and you'll start speaking fluent Portuguese!)

HBS

You should be fine in Rio without knowing much Portugese. Most of the restaurants/bars/hotels have English speaking folks working there. I do agree with the comment on ordering a caipirinha...I prefer the caipirinha with vodka...YUMMIE!