Fiocruz Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil 15-18 March, 2027 info@icbtmconference.com

Money, Currency & Practical Information

The Brazilian Real (BRL / R$)

Official National Currency

The official currency of Brazil is the Real (plural: Reais, sign: R$, code: BRL). Banknotes come in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 reais.

  • Card Acceptance: Credit and debit cards (Visa & Mastercard) are ubiquitously accepted across hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, pharmacies, Uber, and street shops.
  • Cash: Useful to hold R$ 50–100 in small bills for small beach kiosk purchases or tips.
  • ATMs & Cash Withdrawal: Always use ATMs located inside bank branches (Banco do Brasil, Bradesco, Santander) or inside major shopping malls (Shopping Recife, RioMar) for maximum security.

Banking & Foreign Exchange Tips

Smooth International Financial Transactions
  • Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank of your travel dates to Brazil so international security algorithms don't freeze your cards.
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: Check with your issuer regarding foreign exchange rates. Travel cards with zero foreign transaction fees (e.g. Wise, Revolut) work excellently in Brazil.
  • Contactless Payment: Apple Pay and Google Wallet (contactless NFC tap) are standard in virtually all Brazilian card terminals.
  • Currency Exchange (Câmbio): Currency exchange booths are located inside Gilberto Freyre Airport (REC) and inside Shopping Recife.
Visitor Safety

Safety Guidelines & Emergency Contacts

Recife is a welcoming coastal metropolis; taking standard international traveler precautions ensures an enjoyable and safe visit.

Practical Safety Precautions

  • Keep valuables discreet: Avoid visibly displaying high-end cameras, smartwatches, or expensive jewelry when strolling in public.
  • Transport: Use app-based transportation (Uber or 99Pop) or accredited airport taxis, especially after dark.
  • Night walks: Stay in bustling, well-lit tourist areas (such as the main Avenida Boa Viagem strip); avoid deserted streets or walking alone late at night.
  • Important Documents: Keep your physical passport, return tickets, and extra cash securely inside your hotel safe. Carry a digital photo or printed photocopy for day-to-day identification.
  • Beach advisory: Do not swim in the open waters of Boa Viagem Beach due to local reef topography and shark warnings. For ocean bathing, enjoy the completely protected natural coral lagoons in nearby Porto de Galinhas, Muro Alto, or hotel pools.

Brazil Emergency Services

190
Military Police (Polícia Militar) Emergency police assistance 24/7
192
Medical Ambulance (SAMU) Urgent medical response service
193
Fire & Rescue (Bombeiros) Fire, search & rescue operations
Essential Facts

Travel Essentials for Your Trip

Weather in March

Warm tropical climate (26°C – 31°C) with coastal sea breezes and occasional short rain showers.

What to Pack

Light breathable clothing, walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, small umbrella, and a light sweater for air-conditioned auditoriums.

Electricity & Voltage

Recife commonly uses 220 V / 60 Hz. Sockets are Brazilian Standard (Type N, 3-pin, compatible with Europlug Type C 2-pin).

Language

Portuguese is the national language. English is spoken at hotels and the conference venue. Translation apps (Google Translate) are very handy.

Time Zone

Brasília Time (BRT), which is UTC−3. Recife does not observe daylight saving time.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive international travel health insurance is strongly advised. Carry prescription medications in original packaging with doctor's notes.