São Paulo, Brazil’s bustling metropolis, is a cultural powerhouse and the country’s financial hub. Recently, we had the pleasure of speaking with Karin Heuert Galvão (@karinheuert), an experienced language teacher and Director at i-Study Interactive Learning, who shared insights into the must-see landmarks, local cuisine, and what it’s like to teach English in this vibrant city.
Must-See Landmarks in São Paulo
Shelly: Which landmark is a must for visitors?
Karin: São Paulo is packed with incredible landmarks, but I highly recommend Edifício Itália, Parque & Museu do Ipiranga, and Templo Zulai.
- Edifício Itália: This iconic skyscraper offers panoramic views of São Paulo’s sprawling urban landscape. With a rooftop restaurant and bar, it’s a popular spot to enjoy the sunset over the city.
- Parque & Museu do Ipiranga: Located at the historical site of Brazil’s independence, this park and museum celebrate the country’s history with beautiful gardens and exhibits.
- Templo Zulai: This is the largest Buddhist temple in South America, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Taste of São Paulo: Local Dishes
Shelly: What is a popular local dish?
Karin: Some popular dishes here are feijoada, churrasco, coxinha, and sanduíche de mortadela.
- Feijoada: Often considered Brazil’s national dish, feijoada is a hearty black bean stew with pork, traditionally served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.
- Churrasco: Brazilian barbecue is legendary, and São Paulo’s steakhouses serve up an unforgettable experience of smoky, flavorful meats.
- Coxinha: A popular snack, coxinha is a fried dough filled with shredded chicken and cream cheese, perfect for those who want to taste Brazil’s street food.
- Sanduíche de Mortadela: A São Paulo classic, this sandwich is packed with layers of mortadella meat and is a favorite at the famous Mercado Municipal.
Food is central to Brazilian culture, and exploring São Paulo’s diverse culinary scene offers TESOL teachers an immersive experience in the local lifestyle. Sharing these food traditions with students can open up fun discussions in the classroom, allowing students to describe their own favorite foods in English.
Engaging Language Learners in São Paulo
Shelly: Describe an activity your English learners enjoy!
Karin: I work with a lot of business professionals in companies. Surprisingly, they love doing activities usually designed for kids! It’s a great stress relief from the work environment, and it helps them relax. One of their favorites is singing and using Total Physical Response (TPR). They especially enjoy “We’re Going to Kentucky,” which involves movement and rhythm. It’s hilarious and heartwarming to see these corporate professionals letting loose, dancing, and having fun! Activities like this also improve their pronunciation, focusing on intonation and rhythm.
By incorporating fun activities like TPR, Karin creates a relaxed learning environment where adult students can step outside their comfort zones. Engaging business learners with children’s songs, interactive activities, and movement is a great way for TESOL teachers to break down language barriers and build confidence in speaking.
Fun Facts About São Paulo for TESOL Teachers
- City That Never Sleeps: São Paulo’s nightlife is world-renowned, with endless options for live music, dance clubs, and festivals. It’s a lively city where there’s always something happening.
- Coffee Capital: São Paulo is near Brazil’s famous coffee-growing regions, and locals are passionate about their coffee. As an English teacher, you’ll quickly learn how integral coffee culture is to daily life.
- Diverse Population: São Paulo is one of the world’s most diverse cities, with large Italian, Japanese, Arab, and Portuguese communities. This diversity is reflected in the city’s food, festivals, and neighborhoods.
Teaching English in São Paulo: Jobs and Certification
São Paulo’s thriving economy creates a high demand for English teachers, especially in corporate settings. As Brazil’s commercial center, São Paulo is home to countless multinational companies, making it a prime destination for TESOL teachers. With TESOL certification, teachers can access opportunities in private language schools, corporations, and international institutions.
Cost of Living: While the cost of living in São Paulo can be higher than in other parts of Brazil, English teachers are typically well-compensated to cover expenses. The bustling lifestyle, cultural richness, and professional growth make São Paulo an exciting place for teachers looking to experience life in a cosmopolitan city.
Thank You, Karin!
Karin Heuert Galvão has been an EFL teacher for nearly 16 years and has served as the Director at i-Study Interactive Learning for 8 years. Holding a CELTA certificate and an IH Certificate in Online Tutoring, Karin brings extensive expertise to her students and to her teaching community. Her enthusiasm for innovative teaching methods, combined with her love for São Paulo, offers TESOL teachers a valuable perspective on life and work in Brazil’s largest city.
For TESOL educators looking to expand their horizons, São Paulo offers a unique blend of teaching opportunities and cultural immersion. With its rich history, diverse population, and constant energy, São Paulo is a city that offers endless adventures for TESOL teachers eager to make an impact in a vibrant and dynamic setting.
