Miami has always been a favorite vacation spot for Brazilians but in recent years, the city’s romantic appeal has really taken off with more and more Brazilians not simply coming to Miami on vacation but establishing permanent roots there.
The justification for this is obvious. Miami’s abundance of culture, elegance, and conveniences give the city widespread appeal around the world. Miami reminds Brazilians a lot of Brazil, which is probably the finest thing about it. If not in every way, at least in a positive way.
While many Brazilians left for the United States in the 1980s and 1990s in search of better economic prospects and to escape rising prices, many of today’s emigrants are wealthy members of society. Brazil’s sluggish economy is one factor driving people away but another is the allure of a safer place to plant roots.
Here are a few of the many aspects of Miami that have made these Brazilians feel at home here and it may not have the same level of tropical weather and sunny beaches as Rio but it comes close.
Miami is becoming a popular destination for wealthy Brazilians seeking a “second nationality,” in no little part due to the many lucrative real estate opportunities available, both in the form of commercial income assets and private houses, in the city. The percentage of Brazilians among the top three international buyers of luxury properties is very high.
Some Brazilians living abroad have taken up the profession of real estate agent in order to serve their fellow compatriots who are migrating to the United States. A transplant broker has called Miami “the biggest Brazilian metropolis outside of Brazil right now.”
Brazilians can maintain the same standard of living they had at home, albeit with increased assurance and safety. Luxury living and shopping are available in prime downtown locations like Brickell.
And even the richest Brazilians in Miami don’t feel the need for armored cars or teams of bodyguards. Having a high-value home and toys doesn’t have to be a burden; you may own them and still have plenty of time to kick back and relax.
Stores and clubs alike are now aiming their services squarely towards the Brazilian market. Carnaval-themed nights can be found at hip bars. And you can easily locate grocery stores that have picanha (a cut of beef particularly popular in Brazil).
Television and film productions in Portuguese are available as well as Portuguese-speaking tour guides for sightseeing and retail therapy. There are now Portuguese-speaking greeters at both Disney and SeaWorld. Why? Brazilian middle class tourists are coming to Miami’s shops, bars, museums, and restaurants.
About a tenth of all Brazilians living in the United States, out of a total emigration of just under 3 million, live in the state of Florida with a now estimated quarter of a million Brazilians living in the state.
More than half of Miami’s annual visitors are still from their own country. More Brazilians visiting and settling in Miami will only add to the city’s familiarity and warmth.