Standing by Brazil’s largest lagoon, the Lagoa dos Patos, Porto Alegre is an important commercial hub of southern Brazil. Besides being a major port, it is also a focal point for the transportation sector of the region.
But there’s more to Porto Alegre than just business or commerce. The city is a fusion of various cultures like Portuguese, Brazilian, and Spanish. This gives a cosmopolitan feel to the city and a unique cultural experience for the international tourist.
Explore this beautiful city to experience its neoclassical architecture and beautiful parks. And don’t forget to put on your dancing shoes in the evening as some of the best nightclubs in Brazil await you here. All you need to experience Porto Alegre is a sense of adventure, and of course the right travel medical insurance.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers in Porto Alegre – FAQs
A vacation abroad is something that ensures a lot of enjoyment. But only if you don’t fall prey to a mishap while you are at it. And if you need to obtain medical treatment as a result of the mishap, you may need to spend a lot of money. To protect your finances and your health, be sure to have travel medical insurance.
Do I Need Travel Medical Insurance to Travel to Porto Alegre?
There is no legal requirement for you to have travel medical insurance to visit Porto Alegre or any other part of Brazil. However, you must keep in mind that the risk of illness or injury can increase during a trip abroad. New food and new experiences can take a toll on your body. If you need a hospital or doctor, it is imperative that you have a way to pay for it.
Why Buy Travel Medical Insurance Before Traveling to Porto Alegre?
With travel medical insurance, you can enjoy your vacation without having to worry about an unpredictable bill if you need medical treatment. So, buy travel medical insurance before you start your trip.
Porto Alegre’s Most Popular Places for Travel
The “joyful harbor” (English translation of Porto Alegre) has a bouquet of sights to offer the tourist. Cultural centers, parks, lakeside, restaurants, museums – you name it, you got it. A couple of days spent here amidst your busy Brazil trip itinerary is going to add much value to your vacation, for sure.
Rio Grande do Sul Museum of Art
This is a must-visit, not only for art aficionados but for everyone. From traditional Brazilian art and paintings to more contemporary and post-modern works, the institute has a mind-boggling collection of art. Often, musical performances are also held here, and you might be fortunate enough to catch one.
PCURS Science and Technology Museum
The Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul operates this interesting museum. This museum of natural sciences has the distinction of being the only one of its kind in the entire continent. Pay a visit here to have a look at myriad exhibits on the earth, the evolution of the human species, and the universe, to name a few.
Parque Farroupilha
Spend some relaxing time here amidst all the greenery. The huge grounds offer ample opportunities for some peaceful walks. You might also go for some pedal boating or cycling. There are several plant species to be viewed here. These are native to the region, like chal-chal, cocoa, etc.
Cidade Baixa
The vibrant district of Cidade Baixa is a quaint mix of bookstores, clothes outlets, antique buildings, and trendy yet cozy cafes. But above all, it’s an area that’s teeming with life around the clock. This place has some of the hippest bars of the city, like the Bahamas Cidade. Beer aficionados can drop in at The Apolinario to check out over 100 varieties of beer.
Porto Alegre Public Market
This is the oldest public market in the city. And it houses an array of shops that sell a mind-boggling array of products. Spend an afternoon here checking out the products on offer. Collect some memorabilia from here. And don’t forget to visit the Restaurant Gambrinus. This place has served the most authentic and delicious Brazilian seafood dishes for over a century.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in Porto Alegre
Porto Alegre has a higher-than-normal crime rate. So, never let your guard down. The areas where tourists congregate are comparatively safer, though. So, stick to these areas and don’t be overzealous in exploring remote corners of the city or suburbs.
Threats from Muggers
Don’t move around in desolate locations, especially alone. If you plan to visit nightclubs, do so in a taxi booked through the hotel. Otherwise, it’s best to stay in your hotel after sunset.
Carry Limited Cash
Pickpockets abound in crowded locations, especially in tourist spots. So, don’t carry too much cash with you. And keep the cash in money belts instead of wallets. Also, don’t flash too many valuables. Keep them locked in the hotel safe before heading out.
Environmental Hazards
Flooding is common in Porto Alegre, especially during the rainy season. Mudslides also occur, particularly in the outskirts of the city. Be aware of the weather conditions if you visit Porto Alegre in the monsoon season.
Be Careful with Credit/Debit Cards
There have been several cases of criminals installing card-reading devices in standalone ATMs and POS machines. Try to use cash whenever possible. If you need to use the ATM, then visit one that is attached to a bank branch. This will be much more secure as compared to a standalone one. And ensure that there is no one at the ATM when you are withdrawing cash.
Drink Only Mineral Water
Incidents of water-borne diseases are quite common in Porto Alegre. So, don’t even think of consuming tap water while you are there. If you plan to eat fruits/vegetables, don’t buy previously cut products. Wash them thoroughly with mineral water before eating them.
Before You Travel to Porto Alegre – Do This
- Carry mosquito repellent with you. Mosquitoes are big-time hazards in most of Brazil.
- Learn some basic Portuguese before your travel. This will make your job of communicating with locals much easier.
- Yellow fever outbreaks are common in Brazil. It would be prudent to get vaccinated for the same before your trip. Consult your doctor for this.
- Protect your health and your bank account with the right travel medical insurance.