Shopping in Brazil

A Shopper’s Paradise

If there’s one thing Brazilians like to do besides lounging on the beach and partying, it’s shopping. Brazil's rapid economic growth has led to the emergence of a substantial cash-rich middle-class ready to drop hard earned cash on everything from the local to the exotic.

Malls

The malls here are the kind you’d find in Europe or the US, and they don’t hold much allure for foreign visitors. Wide-eyed locals throng in large numbers, but medical tourists generally keep out unless they are looking for Western branded products and supplies. The real shopping to be had in Brazil consists of jewelry, art, antiques, cheap textiles, and swimwear.

Jewelry

Bling lovers will love the variety of gems on offer here – rubies, opals, sapphires, emeralds, and diamonds are all available at reasonable prices. Silver jewelry is a particular favorite with the locals, and you’ll find dozens of stores in Rio. Always buy your jewelry and gems from certified dealers and reputable vendors. The prices are usually cheaper than they are back home, but not every deal you find will be legit. Consult your guidebook if you have specific questions about quality.

Leather

If you’re looking for cheap leather goods, Brazil won’t disappoint. Purses, belts, wallets, and shoes are all available at low prices, although the leather isn’t really as soft as you might expect. If you have time left over from your medical tourism procedure, check out the up-market shops near Copacabana and Ipanema that stock everything leather. Even though the best quality is always reserved for items marked for export, you’ll certainly be able to find a few great bargains.

Antiques and Crystal

Sao Paulo has a selection of stores offering crystal figurines, tableware, and permitted artifacts (some artifacts are considered contraband if they have been illegally mined in the Amazon, so be sure to verify the origin of any pieces in advanced). There may also be restrictions on the kind of things you take out of the country, so make sure you’re not breaking any rules on your medical tourism vacation.

Odds and Ends

If you’re looking for gifts or souvenirs of your medical tourism sojourn, pick up a decorative hammock. These are dirt cheap and very functional. A dental floss bikini from the stores around Ipanema is also a cheeky gift to give. Even if the recipient never ever wears it, it’s still proof of how little Brazilians wear at the beach!

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