Hey, hello there, friend!
I’m officially back after spending a month soaking in the hot, humid Brazilian summer with my family. The last time I was there was in 2020, and let me tell you, four years can change a lot! But one thing remains the same—my deep connection with my family.
Even with the distance, WhatsApp and social media keep us close, but nothing compares to being there in person, hugging them, sharing meals, and feeling that unmistakable Brazilian warmth.
Let me take you along on this journey and share a few things about my culture that you might find interesting!
I have an entire photo gallery HERE for you to see!
Happy in the Rain
The trip started with a bang—my nephew Miguel's 18th birthday party. It was the perfect way to see my entire family within the first few days. Now, if you know Brazil, you know the rain is no joke. Tropical storms roll in almost daily, sudden and intense, but we don’t let that stop the fun. It poured for hours that day, but in true Brazilian spirit, we turned it into a celebration. No one ran for cover—we danced in the rain! There’s a resilience and joy in Brazilian culture that I admire so much; we always find a way to turn things around and celebrate, no matter what.
The Art of Grocery Shopping
Something I love when I travel? Visiting local supermarkets (it's cultural, right?). It’s a weird little obsession of mine, and Brazilian supermarkets always amaze me. Unlike in the U.S., where ready-to-eat meals and frozen food dominate, Brazilian markets overflow with mountains of fresh produce.
Papayas so sweet they taste like candy, passion fruits bigger than my hand—it’s a feast for the senses. It reminds me of the simplicity and vibrancy of the food culture I grew up with.
Between Two Cities in Sāo Paulo
I split my time between two places. Guarulhos, my hometown, where I spent time with my brother and sister, and Ubatuba, where my mother now lives. Ubatuba holds my happiest childhood memories. It’s my safe place, a sanctuary of deep green Atlantic rainforest, rolling mountains, and warm ocean waters. I woke up at 6 AM every day to paddle board alone before the boats arrived, gliding alongside fish and sea turtles—a magical experience I wish I could bottle up and take with me.
A Day Trip to Paraty & Trindade
One of the highlights of the trip was driving with my mom to Paraty, a historic coastal town in Rio de Janeiro. Walking its cobblestone streets (get ready to learn to say paralelepípedo – one of my favorite Portuguese words!) is like stepping into another time. Artists thrive here, surrounded by colonial architecture, lush forests, and the endless ocean. It felt like the Montmartre of Brazil—bohemian, creative, and filled with color. On the way, we stopped in Trindade, a rustic, untouched paradise, where nature reigns supreme.
Beach Days & Painting Nights
When my brother and his family joined us in Ubatuba, we spent our days at the beach and our nights under the full moon. One of my favorite moments? Sitting at the table, painting a custom denim jacket for my mom, while my 4-year-old niece watched in fascination, trying her hand at a few brushstrokes. It was pure, simple joy—a moment I’ll treasure forever.
The Magic of São Paulo
Back in São Paulo, I indulged in one of my favorite things—Brazilian pizza. If you’ve never had it, trust me, it’s a must. The flavors are richer, the toppings more creative, and the crust… perfection! São Paulo is a food lover's paradise, filled with world-class restaurants, vibrant bars, and bustling streets. They say it’s like New York, but to me, it’s better—wider, cleaner, infused with nature and the unmistakable warmth of Brazilian people.
Of course, I made time to visit MASP (São Paulo Museum of Art), one of the most important cultural landmarks in Brazil. The modernist building, designed by Lina Bo Bardi, floats above Avenida Paulista, holding a treasure trove of Brazilian and international masterpieces. Walking through the exhibits reminded me how much I miss this part of my culture.
Oscar Freire: Where Brazil Meets America
One Sunday, I wandered down Rua Oscar Freire, São Paulo’s most expensive street, lined with luxury boutiques. But something struck me—almost all the store names were in English. It made me wonder: Why are Brazilians so obsessed with American culture? It was odd to see Portuguese pushed aside in such an elite space, as if exclusivity was tied to speaking English. A reflection, perhaps, of globalization and aspiration.
A Journey of Love & Identity
This trip reminded me that love is about sharing. Living abroad sometimes makes me feel split between worlds, but it also multiplies my sense of belonging. I don’t have a single place where I feel completely at home, and I like it that way. I love being here, there, and everywhere. Traveling fuels me, but so does returning home. Each trip deepens my appreciation for my roots and my gratitude for the life I’ve built abroad.
I hope this blog gives you a glimpse into Brazil’s beauty and inspires curiosity for what’s next in my art. My family, my culture, my travels—they all shape the colors, textures, and emotions that spill onto my canvas. Thank you to my amazing family for another unforgettable adventure!
Até a próxima! (Until next time!)
Comments