Things To Do
in Presidente Bernardes

A traditional São Paulo interior dish with rice, tutu (refried beans), pork, sautéed greens and banana — commonly served at local restaurants and family-style eateries.

Must-Try!

Classic black bean and pork stew often served on weekends; look for local versions at larger weekend lunches or festival days.

Popular snacks available at padarias and street vendors — pão de queijo is a cheesy baked roll, coxinha is a fried chicken croquette.

Grilled meats are common at restaurants and weekend gatherings; try a local açougue or churrascaria for varied cuts.

Typical open-air market held on one or two mornings a week: buy fresh fruit, regional cheeses, homemade sweets and snacks; great for sampling local flavors and buying produce.

Small municipal market or the central bakery where you’ll find fresh bread, cakes, coffee and local delicacies; good for breakfast and people-watching.

People greet with a handshake in formal situations and one light cheek kiss (or two, depending on local custom) among friends—use friendly, respectful tone when meeting someone.

Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious events; casual clothes are fine around town but avoid beachwear away from coastal areas.

Punctuality is relaxed for social events—expect a slower pace of life; business meetings may follow a more scheduled approach.

Politeness and small talk are valued. Avoid sensitive political or personal topics unless you know someone well, and accept invitations graciously.

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory. Restaurants sometimes include a 10% service charge on the bill; if not included, rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common. Small tips for hotel porters and taxi drivers are discretionary.

Cash (Brazilian real, BRL) is widely used, especially at markets, small eateries and rural vendors. Credit and debit cards are accepted at larger restaurants and shops; contactless and mobile payments are increasingly available but carry cash for smaller establishments. ATMs may be limited—withdraw cash in a larger nearby town if possible.

(Dec–Mar) Summers are warm to hot and humid with frequent afternoon or evening thunderstorms; ideal for green landscapes and agricultural activity but pack rain gear and insect repellent.

(Apr–May) Cooler, drier weather with pleasant days and crisp mornings—good for outdoor activities and photography as fields change after harvest.

(Jun–Aug) Mild to cool days and noticeably cooler nights; low humidity and little rain. Bring a light jacket for evenings and early mornings.

(Sep–Nov) Warming temperatures and increasing rainfall; countryside blooms and agriculture gears up—good season for lush scenery but occasional showers.

A regional airport in a nearby larger city (for example, the regional center) handles domestic flights and is typically 1–2 hours’ drive away—useful for quick access to the national air network.

The main international gateway serving São Paulo state (approx. several hours by car or a few hours by bus). Best option for international travelers connecting to Presidente Bernardes via domestic flights or long-distance bus/car.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with big cities. Expect rice, beans, salads, cheese dishes and egg-based items; ask for vegetable sides and explain dietary needs ("sou vegetariano/vegetariana").

Vegan choices are more limited—bring snacks, rely on fresh fruit, salads and rice & beans without animal stock; communicate clearly in Portuguese to avoid hidden animal ingredients.

Some naturally gluten-free options (grilled meats, rice, beans, salads); bakeries and traditional snacks may contain wheat—ask before ordering and prefer simple dishes.

Carry translations of key allergies, and inform staff at restaurants. Local kitchens may not have cross-contamination controls typical of larger urban restaurants.