REVIEWS OF HOTEL EXECUTIVE CLUB LOUNGES, KIDS CLUBS AND MORE.
São Paulo is not the easiest place to get around if you don’t speak Portuguese. While public transport is available, many tourists and business travellers prefer the comfort and safety of a taxi, especially late at night or when heading to unfamiliar areas. But the main challenge is that not many taxi drivers speak English.
Luckily, there are ways to navigate the language barrier, and easily communicate with the drivers and understand each other.
The easiest and most reliable way to find an English-speaking driver is by using a ride-hailing app like Uber or 99 (the Brazilian version of Uber). These apps are available in English and let you input your destination without needing to speak to the driver. While the driver may not understand English, the app handles all the communication.
If you are staying at a hotel, the front desk can arrange a taxi for you and specifically request an English-speaking driver. These drivers may not be fluent, but they often know enough to understand basic directions and engage in small talk.
This is also a much safer option, especially if you are arriving late at night or travelling with luggage. Hotel-contracted taxis usually charge fixed rates, and the vehicles are well-maintained. It is a great option if you are nervous about navigating the city alone.
If you are in São Paulo for business or planning to visit multiple locations in one day, hiring a private driver or tour guide is an excellent solution. Many companies offer English-speaking drivers for airport pickups, corporate travel, or sightseeing. This might be a more expensive option than taxis, but it is also safer and offers an overall better experience.
Having a few basic Portuguese phrases on hand can go a long way. Learn how to say things like "I don’t speak Portuguese" or "Please take me to this address". These can help you break the ice.
Translation apps like Google Translate are also great. You can type or even speak into your phone and have it translate in real-time. It may not be perfect, but it is more than enough to handle directions, ask about fares, or clarify misunderstandings.
Some airports in São Paulo, such as Guarulhos International Airport or Congonhas Airport, have official taxi ranks with staff who often speak English. You can ask the attendant for an English-speaking driver, and they will try to accommodate you. These airport taxis are more expensive but are safer, better regulated, and more convenient.
You can also pre-book an airport transfer online with a company that offers English-speaking drivers. This is one of the most reliable ways to ensure a smooth arrival, especially after a long flight when the last thing you want is confusion or delays.
There are always plenty of ways to work around the language barriers when you visit foreign countries that don't speak your language or English. Using apps, booking through your hotel, or hiring a private car service are all excellent options that take the stress out of travel. With a bit of planning and a willingness to adapt, getting around São Paulo can be both comfortable and safe, even if you don’t speak a word of Portuguese.
We are a family of 4 - mother, father and two children. Our aim is to travel the world and review all travel opportunities to help other families.
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