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Dining Etiquette

Brazilians tend to appreciate very prestigious restaurants.
Do not expect to discuss business during any meal. You should participate in the conversation, but not try to direct it too much. Wait until coffee is served to begin any business discussions (at the end of the meal).
You will most likely be hosted at a first-class hotel, and be entertained there if the hotel has an excellent restaurant.
Good topics on conversation:
- Soccer (futbol)
- Family
- Highly animated conversations
Topics to avoid:
- Politics
- Any topics relating to Argentina (Brazil's traditional rival)
If you are invited to a party, it will probably be given at a private club rather than at a home. Arrive at least 15 minutes late.
A snack consisting of cookies, cake, and beverages is usually served at 4:00 or 5:00 p.m.
Brazilian dinners take place any time from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. Dinner parties can easily continue until 2:00 a.m., but it is not unheard of for dinner parties to break up as late as 7:00 a.m. the next morning!