tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31783690549139855382024-02-21T02:34:15.656-03:00Crummy LifeAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-43947320818133975192018-08-07T14:44:00.003-03:002018-08-08T12:25:53.773-03:00Stop Doing What Makes You Happy – It's Making You MiserableUnhappiness is an epidemic in our society.<br />
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More people are anxious, stressed, depressed and on meds than any other generation in the history of the world. So what's the problem?<br />
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People chase around happiness without the slightest clue about what it actually means – running around unaware there are really two types and that they're pursuing the wrong one.<br />
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In this post, I am going to break down these two different types and give some insight on why we overlook one and continuously chase the other.<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 26px;">The simple path</span></h2>
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Have you ever heard this famous Carmel McConnell quote:</div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 21px;"><i> Do more of what makes you happy</i></span></blockquote>
It's timeless, but it lacks the distinction between the fact that there is really two types of happiness. It creates a massive issue.<br />
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Without understanding the difference, it's easy to go after the wrong kind of happiness. Let's look at this list of stuff that makes most people happy:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Binge watching series and films on Netflix</li>
<li>Eating an artisan burger with bacon and barbecue sauce</li>
<li>Laying around in bed on Sunday morning</li>
<li>Flipping through social media</li>
</ul>
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It's easy to think <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carmel_McConnell" target="_blank">McConnell</a> just means more of that stuff – activities that quickly bring you happiness or make you feel good. But it's not that simple.<br />
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You see, this is immediate happiness, and any successful person will tell you it's the assassin of dreams, motivation, and progress. And they're right.<br />
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The activities I listed above are super comfortable – bringing dopamine hits immediately with little to no effort. And that's the beginning of the problem.<br />
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<h2>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 26px;">Culture of immediate reward</span></h2>
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As American culture dives deeper into the need for convenience and immediate pleasure, we wear out the pleasure system. Let me explain.</div>
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Just like a junky needs more drugs trying to get the original feeling back – requiring bigger doses or more substances – we are doing the same thing with the brain's reward center.</div>
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After the quick and easy dopamine hit fades, we seek out another easy, fast way to get it back. How many easy and quick rewards to you give yourself per day?</div>
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Hundreds? Thousands?<br />
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Start with your smartphone... Mobile game and social media <a href="http://sitn.hms.harvard.edu/flash/2018/dopamine-smartphones-battle-time/" target="_blank">developers are using habit-forming models to get you hooked</a> – and spending more time – on their products.<br />
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It's hard to tell for sure how many rewards you give yourself per day, but <a href="https://www.inc.com/melissa-chu/why-your-brain-prioritizes-instant-gratification-o.html" target="_blank">research indicates we are trying to get happiness immediately</a>. It's not working; the feeling goes away.</div>
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That leads us to the other type of happiness.</div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 26px;">This doesn't feel like happiness</span></h2>
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<a href="https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2017/04/over-nearly-80-years-harvard-study-has-been-showing-how-to-live-a-healthy-and-happy-life/">Research</a> shows that what makes people feel most happy is human relationships – commitment to connecting with others.</div>
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<a href="https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability" target="_blank">Brené Brown</a> describes how vulnerability is the birthplace of creativity, strength, development and more. Furthermore... </div>
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<b>You can't be vulnerable without creating a stronger bond. </b></div>
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But vulnerability never feels like happiness while you're being vulnerable. Seriously...<br />
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If you remember being thrilled in a moment of vulnerability, please tell me in the comments. I'd love to be wrong. I digress... </blockquote>
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Vulnerability hurts. It makes us feel insecure. But not forever.</div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnYMOamNKLGVlJgRUbamveA" target="_blank">Tom Bilyeu</a> and the long list of people he has interviewed are transparent about how vulnerability has helped them grow, and ultimately brought them more happiness.<br />
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Another thing they describe is specific tasks they don't like doing but commit to daily because of the sweet (eventual) payoff. And this isn't isolated.</div>
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Hal Elrod, Darren Hardy, Oprah Winfrey, and every freaking successful person that you can imagine – I guarantee this – has a morning routine. And many of them don't like parts of it.</div>
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They may hate waking up early, detest sitting in silence, get frustrated with morning exercise... But that isn't going to stop them. They force themselves to do it and learn to love it. Why?</div>
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Because of latent happiness. This is the second type, and it refers to actions you take now – which suck in the moment – to bring you future happiness. Let's examine further.</div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 26px;">Unhappy now, happy later</span></h2>
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Is it possible McConnell wanted to say you should do more of what brings you latent happiness? Bare with me.</div>
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We've got two opposing ideas here...</div>
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<ol>
<li>Do what makes you happy immediately</li>
<li>Do what will bring you more happiness in the future (you probably won't enjoy in the moment)</li>
</ol>
</div>
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The first reduces your patience, increases stress and anxiety, and can lead to depression. It strips you of the grit required to push through when times get tough – it trains you to want easy.<br />
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<b>Why would McConnell – a poverty and wellbeing activist and author – have suggested that?</b><br />
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On the other hand, the second fosters persistence. It provides the focus you need to remember why you are doing difficult things – working extra hours, changing your diet, learning new skills. Here's an example:</div>
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My wife and I regularly talk about dreams and goals. It's a habit we love. However...<br />
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<b>Those conversations can be difficult.</b> They require a lot of focus, digging deep into the abstract compartments of our minds and feelings. It's tough.</div>
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But we know expanding on ideas and diving into thoughts makes it easier to manifest the dreams and desires connected to them – creating clearer pictures in our heads of the destination and necessary steps to reach them. </div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 26px;">Focused on the goal</span></h2>
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As cliché as the word 'hack' is, I heavily advocate for mind hacking – or reframing – your way into getting stoked on latent happiness. Let me explain.<br />
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Like I described above about morning routines, you have to focus on the '<i>why</i>' and commit to the action while teaching yourself to enjoy it. Here's an example:<br />
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Both my wife and I hate doing housework. For me, however, not as much as I hate the idea of paying a housekeeper. Therefore, I focus on how much my wife will appreciate a clean house, then I do it.<br />
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Her gratitude – which comes later, after I've finished – will make me happy. I sure as hell am not thrilled while I'm scrubbing the toilet.<br />
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You can apply this to so many areas of life...<br />
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<ul>
<li>hating the gym, but loving the results of working out </li>
<li>being pissed about studying every night after work, but enjoying every extra dollar of the pay raise that comes with the certification you get</li>
</ul>
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There are tons of ways this manifests in your life. So the point is...<br />
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<b>Do hard shit</b> <i>and focus the happiness that will come later.</i><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 26px;">Open to interpretation</span></h2>
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The famous quote isn't to be taken lightly. It's a simple phrase that carries a lot of weight, however... </div>
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While I don't believe McConnell wanted to imply that you should go out and chase immediate happiness... you're welcome to interpret it that way.</div>
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I believe her words tell us to invest our time and actions into the things that will bring the most happiness in life... even if that happiness doesn't come quick.</div>
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Much like a financial investment, you can't expect to get that fat return tomorrow.</div>
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What do you think about the difference between immediate and latent happiness? Share your thoughts in the comments.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-14876965714424221742018-06-12T11:56:00.000-03:002018-06-21T15:59:00.066-03:00How To Copy Without Being A Cheat (Or Losing Credibility)<div dir="ltr">
Like getting in a car strangers and looking both ways before you cross the street, not copying is one of those life lessons that are drilled into your head. And not without reason.</div>
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Adults were looking out for us. They didn't want us to get kidnapped, hit by a car, or in the case of copying, end up dependent and uneducated. Little did they know they were drawing a line in the sand that limited our growth.</div>
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This post is all about why and how copying is good, and leveraging the best practices can bring you immense levels of growth.<br />
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<i>Good artists copy, great artists steal. — Pablo Picasso</i></blockquote>
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Copying is bad, right? </h3>
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Looking over your friend's shoulder in class was going to get you a one-way ticket to detention. Wearing the latest style of some celebrity would put you on the fast track to getting teased by your friends (I learned this one the hard way). </div>
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There are so many negatives that come from the concept of copying that, for many of us, it's permanently anchored to ideas of punishment or some kind of backlash. But should it be this way?<br />
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Binary thinking is always dangerous, and it's no different here. Copying as a form of cheating is bad. Copying as a form of development is good.<br />
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The gap in understanding the difference creates a requisite for originality. But is originality all it's cracked up to be?<br />
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Don't waste your time being original</h3>
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John Marrow of Copyblogger has mentioned a story about copying that I like to retell when I have this conversation with people.</div>
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He tells of his days in university when an English professor of his asked the question if it was better to be original or to copy the greats. The answer is obvious.</div>
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John was shocked when he heard the answer. <i>Of cour</i><i>se, the answer is stealing</i>. I choose to say copying, but he is saying the same thing. Think about it.</div>
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The professor went on to describe how the great — Shakespeare, Hemmingway, etc — copied greats that had come before them.</div>
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Clearly, this doesn't mean go word for word through their works and try to resubmit it as yours. By no means. So what does it mean, then?</div>
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Put your original twist on the what has already been done. But it's not that simple.</div>
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Copy without being a copycat</h3>
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You'll have to study their formulas, or how they structure their content. How they create conflict. Which emotions they trigger and when they do so.</div>
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Famous copywriter Joe Sugarman suggests a writing exercise in which you take some ad or text you like and use it to write your ad or text. From headline to layout, do what they do.</div>
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Sugarman calls it patterning, but it's copying. He warns not to copy too closely because it might end up looking too much like the inspiration. And that's the trick.</div>
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That is how you copy without being a copycat.</div>
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As kids, we're taught not to copy, but we are not taught about the contexts of copying and why it can be awesome.<br />
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Copying in personal and professional development, business, training, or skill building can propel you to success faster than you can do it trying to be original.<br />
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That's something the adults in your childhood surely never told you.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-74141735358739918622018-06-08T12:13:00.000-03:002018-06-08T12:13:05.084-03:00Think About Life Like It's Your Birthday Every DayMost people do it. The clock strikes birthday o'clock, and we start evaluating and analyzing our lives.<br />
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Along with New Year's Day, our birthdays are a time that makes us ponder our accomplishments, motivations, direction, and general how's-it-goingness of life.<br />
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Even though it can bring on some stress and confusion—usually brought on by comparing ourselves to our peers and colleagues—it's a great opportunity for setting some goals.<br />
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This year, reflecting on life around my birthday made me ask myself, <i>Why don't I think like like it's my birthday</i><i> every day?</i><br />
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Lie to yourself more</h3>
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Lying is wrong, right? That's what parents and authority figures tend to tell us.</div>
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Could it be that they were actually lying when they said that? Could it be that there is a hidden hack that we can leverage by lying to ourselves?</div>
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No, no. I'm not talking about the kind of lying to yourself that is like telling yourself you are going to be a millionaire when you are flipping burgers at a fast food joint or marrying that hottie that is so far out of your league that she sees through you. </div>
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In fact, that type of lying to yourself is going to lead to extreme delusion. It's dangerous.</div>
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The kind of lying to yourself I'm talking about is far from that. It's positive and brings a positive result.</div>
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What I'm talking about is lying to yourself to think of every day, every single day, like your birthday. </div>
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The idea behind this little mind hack is to evaluate yourself constantly Remember that you want the best life you can possibly have and need to regularly check yourself if you are going to make it happen.</div>
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Twice a year isn't enough</h3>
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Who in the hell ever said that we should only self-evaluate 2 times a year? </div>
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Fact is, no one. It's just a cultural tendency that comes from the passing through cycles.</div>
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Years are natural cycles because they repeat themselves, and all the variations of cycles are based on the year format. Businesses think of quarters as cycles and schools think of semesters as cycles, but both of those are based on the year cycle.</div>
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A year is the most basic cyclical unit we can analyze without feeling overwhelmed. The problem with that is we end up thinking about things so generally to make objective evaluations.</div>
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I mean, do you seriously remember with clarity what you were doing in January when December rolls around? Probably not, and it likely takes time to distinguish between neighboring months, like March and April.</div>
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Your likely thinking, <i>Why don't we evaluate the smaller cycles, like months, weeks, or days?</i> Great question. </div>
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Every day is your birthday</h3>
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This year, as I was reflecting, I made a decision. Upon realizing that this kind of self-reflection is valuable and motivating, I made the decision to do it daily.</div>
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I'm convinced that including a small reflection period of reflection into my morning routine will bring massive value to my life. Every day I'll have the opportunity to find areas to improve or understand better.</div>
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Every day I'll get the chance to know myself deeper, find solutions, get to know obstacles, find the nooks nestled in my mind, and much more.</div>
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The benefits of telling myself that every day is my birthday go on and on. But nothing matters unless I take action. Sure, realizations are great, but they are worthless without action.</div>
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Now, if only I could convince everyone else to believe it was my birthday every day. I could at least be happy knowing that there would be cake. 🎂</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-66934779318233980862018-01-05T17:24:00.001-02:002018-01-05T17:28:10.013-02:00The Best Books Of 2017<div dir="ltr">
One of my goals for 2017 was to read more. To start small, I decided one book a month would be good. Twelve books — no biggie. Or was it?</div>
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In the end, I cracked open a total of thirteen books, but I only finished ten. I came in a little under my goal, but I'm happy that I increased the number from the prior year.<br />
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What was that number? Good question. I don't know because I didn't keep track in 2016, but it was definitely under ten. My gut tells me it was around 5. 😞</div>
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The three I didn't finish consisted of a topic—personal finance—that proved to be too dense for me to read in Portuguese, a book I read in the past and wanted to revisit, and a creative writing book that ended up being about writing fiction novels—not what I was looking for.<br />
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Excuses aside, let's take a look at what I did finish.</div>
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My Reading List</h2>
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I tracked everything in a Google Sheet that I updated as I started and finished books. I read most of the books in Kindle format on my smartphone.</div>
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Here is the complete list:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimTAe1Mr04QO6Et791g-Jr6SOzhPPBrXEggDu-S2GAdHdpLqJM8SIVuG02YMlScv4kB9CH_mseHVc44EktmMQVtdnK1wYEjfT6KQ5mfewDoxZh1HRFJwfZK2IWK7xVkMxy-r74K8iBlSE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-01-05+at+15.50.35.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="299" data-original-width="826" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimTAe1Mr04QO6Et791g-Jr6SOzhPPBrXEggDu-S2GAdHdpLqJM8SIVuG02YMlScv4kB9CH_mseHVc44EktmMQVtdnK1wYEjfT6KQ5mfewDoxZh1HRFJwfZK2IWK7xVkMxy-r74K8iBlSE/s640/Screen+Shot+2018-01-05+at+15.50.35.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_1009075618"></span><span id="goog_1009075619"></span><br />
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One last note, in case you didn't notice already, most of the books were entrepreneurial or personal development titles. Only one fiction title made the list: <i>The Giver</i> in Portuguese—<i>Doador de Memórias</i>.<br />
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That was based on a recommendation from <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ifjc1Q-TUHE" target="_blank">Gavin Roy</a> to read books you've read in your first language in the language you're learning. It's a solid strategy because you already have the context of what you're reading even if you don't know all the words or grammar.<br />
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Of everything I read, there were a few that stood out above the rest. In no specific order, here are my top picks for the year:<br />
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Top Reads of 2017</h2>
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<h3>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Traction-Startup-Achieve-Explosive-Customer/dp/1591848369" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Traction</a> – Gabriel Weiner & Justin Mares</h3>
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Focused on the nineteen channels a startup has to leverage growth, it's an in-depth look with tons of examples and case studies to help young businesses hone in on what channels are the best for them to grow.</div>
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The main take away for me was the Bullseye strategy. It's the system Weiner and Mares suggest for ranking the channels that will work best for your business.</div>
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<h3>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Reinvent-Yourself-James-Altucher/dp/1541137132/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1512521154&sr=1-1&keywords=reinvent+yourself" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Reinvent Yourself</a> – James Altucher</h3>
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Altucher is a heavyweight from the early days of the Internet. He is a pure hustling entrepreneur that deserves to be as well known as Gary V. </div>
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Reinvent Yourself is a witty compilation of insights that Altucher has taken away from researching the lives of well-known artists, musicians, scientists, authors, and more. He also includes insights from interviews he's conducted over the years for his podcast and writing endeavors.</div>
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The theme of the book is all centered around how life is not static, and Altucher gives you a walloping dose of the growth mindset. Page after page, you get examples of how people went against the grain to become great. </div>
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I highly recommend it.</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Create-Automate-Accelerate-Blueprint-Building/dp/1514701480/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1512521484&sr=1-1&keywords=create+automate+accelerate" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Create. Automate. Accelerate.</a> – Leon Jay</h3>
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Well known in the Internet entrepreneurial community, Jay delivers myth-busting honesty and a playbook for thriving as an Internet entrepreneur in one book.</div>
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His style cuts straight to the point and ensures that you are forced to think about the things most people assume aren't important when they're getting started. Real-life examples, whether from observation or personal experience, Jay ensures that you understand why what he suggests is important and shouldn't be overlooked.</div>
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I 100% recommend this if you are or are thinking about becoming a solopreneur.</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Rework-Jason-Fried/dp/0307463745/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1512521456&sr=1-1&keywords=rework" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rework</a> – Jason Fried & David Hansson</h3>
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Fried and Hansson wrote this book for anyone who loves to challenge the rules. </div>
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These two take a hard, honest look at what most business management and entrepreneurial resources tell you to do and then shatter all of those assumptions into pieces.<br />
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Whats more, it's all first-hand experience. Fried and Hansson have defied all the rules in building and maintaining a successful company on their own terms.</div>
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<h2>
The Breakdown</h2>
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<div>
Looking back, I feel I did pretty well. I'm not reading forty books a year yet, but I'm moving the needle.<br />
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In 2018, I have increased my achievement by 50% to complete fifteen books. Considering I didn't finish 23% of the books that I started in 2017, I am going to shoot for 25% over my target.</div>
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<div>
Reading goal for 2018: read 19 books.<br />
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Since New Year's day, I've already started three books. It feels like I'm off to a good start, but only time will tell. I'll be back in a year to report whether or not I get all the way through them, and the other twelve.<br />
<i><br /></i> <i>Have any book recommendations for me? What about tips for tracking my reading habits? Leave a comment and help me out with your insight.</i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-70381500364906279212018-01-03T22:34:00.002-02:002018-01-04T14:49:14.062-02:00Why You're Going To Continue Not Doing What You Want<div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">
You've been thinking about a habit you're interested in starting. It's been awhile since you thought you'd pick it up, but you still haven't. Why?</div>
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Not starting carries more power than you know. You aren't going to start because the power of not doing something is stronger than your willpower to pick up that new habit, skill or hobby.<br />
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The longer you don't do something the easier it is to continue not doing. Simple as that.<br />
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To make matters worse, your uncertainty about whether you will really take full advantage of whatever your habit is keeps you from taking action. Not knowing if you'll really benefit is preventing you from pursuing your habit too.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkTRw7jU1ArAUo58PtwzA5dT_N6RsPQxzDJJ1q_9bN6xdlTovBS3jaNrKrGP8wTVG9YLE4BUrJ43cAWqMDayWg20nLzyCI4uE4-9GgR9Inrxrm8IiI9G0MWuPZ6sYwA-dzAbPgopatLAQ/s1600/IMG_20171119_150806057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkTRw7jU1ArAUo58PtwzA5dT_N6RsPQxzDJJ1q_9bN6xdlTovBS3jaNrKrGP8wTVG9YLE4BUrJ43cAWqMDayWg20nLzyCI4uE4-9GgR9Inrxrm8IiI9G0MWuPZ6sYwA-dzAbPgopatLAQ/s320/IMG_20171119_150806057.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I want to do more outdoor activities.</td></tr>
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My most current example is outdoor activity. I love it, I grew up surrounded by it and enjoying it, so why can't I get my ass out to do it?</div>
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It's because I am out of practice, I'm not part of a community, and there are too many options for where to begin — seriously, Floripa is a nature lover's wet dream.</div>
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Three quick lessons from my frustration are:</div>
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<li>don't worry about being in shape or 'good enough' to start</li>
<li>cling on to others that are already doing it</li>
<li>don't think about what is the best option. Go with the first one, then use what you learn from the experience to make an educated next step</li>
</ul>
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Why Your Reasons Are Bullshit</h2>
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First, if you want to start a new habit you should just do it. "It's not that simple," you're thinking.<br />
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Stop mulling over the about the ifs, ands, and buts and just start. You're less likely to keep churning thoughts in your head and break the ice of getting the ball rolling. </div>
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Second, no matter what happens with your new habit you are going to benefit.</div>
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At the very least, you'll learn something new and have more awareness about the subject than you did before.<br />
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"But what if I don't learn anything new?" You may ask.</div>
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Consider this: if you completely fail or hate this new thing, you have effectively found something you know you don't like or a way to not do it. That's learning.</div>
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Also, you now know at least one thing you need to improve on. With even the simplest of questions and a Google search, you're going to know how to level up.<br />
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There is likely an entire YouTube channel (maybe thousands) dedicated to the exact thing you want to learn or start doing.<br />
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Don't Just Sit There, Do Something</h2>
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In sum, a new year has started, and that means many people are talking about starting new habits or becoming a new version of themselves.</div>
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Great. I love it. Let's go!</div>
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However, in February when everyone gives up, I don't want to hear the same excuses about why it didn't work out.</div>
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At the very least, tackle the initial hesitation and know that, no matter what, you're going to come out on top.<br />
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Have any experience with the ups and downs of motivation and cultivating new habits? Share in the comments.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-16932178147717449592016-11-04T18:02:00.001-02:002016-11-04T18:15:05.997-02:003 Simple Ways You Can Be Less Gringo (And More Brazilian)We need to face this reality hard and fast. We are gringos.<br />
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If you already understand that this word is used in Brazil much different than other parts of Latin America, you are ready to take the next step.<br />
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On the other hand, if you are still hung up on this word being offensive, then you have a longer way to go than simply heeding the advice of this video. You should probably read <a href="http://if%20you%20are%20still%20hung%20up%20on%20this%20word%20being%20offensive%2C%20then%20you%20have%20a%20longer%20way%20to%20go%20than%20simply%20heeding%20the%20advice%20of%20this%20video./" target="_blank">this post</a> to get a better grasp of how this word is used (jump to number twelve if you want an immediate idea).<br />
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<h3>
How do they know, <i>caralho</i>?</h3>
Brazilians know we are gringos in a heartbeat, whether it's our Portuguese proficiency, our physiological differences, the way we dress, or something else. So, what are we going to do about it?<br />
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I'm one of those guys that is constantly observing what the host culture is doing. I'm looking for trends, patterns, slang, and anything else I can pick up on that let's me draw nearer to being more like them.<br />
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In this case, I want to be more <i>quase brasileiro</i>... or as I like to say, <i>quaseleiro</i>. This video draws on the idea that you want to be more Brazilian, like I do, and offers you 3 great tips do get there.<br />
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If you don't, and you like living in the grumpy-pants world of constant comparisons and misunderstandings about why <i>they</i> are the way they are, then you can skip straight to the comments and remind me that this is all a waste of time.<br />
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Be sure to leave a comment and tell me what you think about my tips, and if you've got some insight for other gringos, throw 'em at us, <i>porra!</i><br />
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If you like what you saw, share the video or this post and let me know it made you giggle.<br />
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<i>Até mais, amigão!</i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com0Florianópolis, State of Santa Catarina, Brazil-27.5953778 -48.548049900000024-28.045627800000002 -49.193496900000021 -27.1451278 -47.902602900000026tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-14755707201570221872016-06-15T22:55:00.001-03:002018-06-01T19:20:06.012-03:00How to Handle Your Brazilian Visa ExtensionSo, you are liking your life in Brazil and you've decided to stick around.<br />
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I support that, but what about all the red tape? What about all the hoop jumping? If you're not in the position of having your school handle this process, lucky for you, I've been there and want it to be as easy as possible for you.<br />
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Recently, I was talking to some friends that are approaching their first Brazilian student visa extension, or <i>prorrogação</i>. Like many things in Brazil, the first time around can be such a pain in the ass, so keep reading if you are interested in not ripping your hair out.<br />
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Just in case anyone starts clicking on links in the post, know that the Polícia Federal (PF) website may require you to adjust security settings on your browser. It always does for me. Just accept and continue to the site.<br />
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Now, let's look at what you need to gather to successfully get your student visa extended.<br />
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<h2>
Get Your Letter</h2>
Quite obviously, you need to pay any fees that are required to get your next enrollment letter. Pay at your school's bank with a cash deposit or bank transfer, or use any form of credit or debit card if they have an online payment system.<br />
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In return, they should give you two documents, the declaration of enrollment and a testament that the school is real.<br />
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<h2>
Get Your Código de Solicitação</h2>
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First, you need to fill out a web form <a href="https://servicos.dpf.gov.br/sincreWeb/" target="_blank">here</a> that'll give you a code you need in order to schedule your PF appointment. You'll have to include a job on this form, so below are three options you may want to use and their codes so that you don't have to rummage through the list of occupations:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>930 - student</li>
<li>116 - writer, journalist or similar (I use this and if asked openly say blogger)</li>
<li>990 - unclassified by list</li>
</ul>
After you submit the form (and don't worry if the page asks you to resubmit the captcha, it has always asked me twice), the form will load in A4 style with all you details filled out. In the heading you'll see <i>Código de Solicitação</i>, and that is the code you need to schedule an appointment. Don't close that page because you need to print it. If you can't print, click the print icon and save it as a PDF from the print options page.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaZTB4nr8Zntl_wY2fuJ1slovXYLKZuPK0t6rB0eST8hcCvitzbdRdUJEOpj6bXejxTZEtfvoHst1-JJaIe1bVXz7s10HmpgRXSLrltc-6xrsi7zWsyB0QwnWZq75H5RezSQUfxi_w-YU/s1600/Prorragac%25CC%25A7a%25CC%2583o+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="80" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaZTB4nr8Zntl_wY2fuJ1slovXYLKZuPK0t6rB0eST8hcCvitzbdRdUJEOpj6bXejxTZEtfvoHst1-JJaIe1bVXz7s10HmpgRXSLrltc-6xrsi7zWsyB0QwnWZq75H5RezSQUfxi_w-YU/s400/Prorragac%25CC%25A7a%25CC%2583o+1.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h2>
Schedule a PF Appointment</h2>
The PF in Floripa no longer issues queue numbers by hand. You must make an appointment online through their system, and try to do it well in advance. Some PFs are going to be impacted, and if you wait, there may not be an available appointment before your expiration date.<br />
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Now, use the <i>Código de Solicitação</i> <a href="https://servicos.dpf.gov.br/sincreWeb/pesquisaAgendamento.jsp" target="_blank">here</a> to schedule an appointment. After you get past the first page, your name and location of PF will automatically load, then you just select an available date and time.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTPlcCI3t9UhlATuUr9_oomTatlHwLbbGvydhEXWzICcSuFPKewKG3osZH0iGOI4fVFVy4vxDoq8iMpZVRhnWIJgLVei8uM9Xk9Ch-ZR83g2iQZX0GoNlX9cXgPWVsJoQ4whPBRtySJYw/s1600/Prorrogac%25CC%25A7a%25CC%2583o+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="110" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTPlcCI3t9UhlATuUr9_oomTatlHwLbbGvydhEXWzICcSuFPKewKG3osZH0iGOI4fVFVy4vxDoq8iMpZVRhnWIJgLVei8uM9Xk9Ch-ZR83g2iQZX0GoNlX9cXgPWVsJoQ4whPBRtySJYw/s400/Prorrogac%25CC%25A7a%25CC%2583o+2.png" width="400" /></a></div>
If there weren't any times available before your expiration, take the first available one. You can always keep checking the system for times that open up as people cancel.<br />
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The secretary at the PF told me that as long as you make your appointment before your expiration date, your visa is valid until the appointment. You won't be fined for the days between visa expiry and PF appointment.<br />
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<i>This section has been updated to reflect new information received on June 16th in person from the secretary at the foreigner service counter of the Federal Police in Florianópolis.</i><br />
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<h2>
Pay The Taxes For Your New RNE</h2>
Click <a href="https://servicos.dpf.gov.br/gru/gru?nac=1&rec=2" target="_blank">here</a> for the page that you have to fill out in order to get the A4 print-outs like you did above. You'll have to fill it out once for each tax code. Use the numbers below in the box next to <i>Código da Receita STN</i>:<br />
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<ul>
<li>código 140090 (R$110.44)</li>
<li>código 140120 (R$204.77)</li>
</ul>
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Again, if you don't have the option to print when the document pops up, click on print and save as PDF. You can pay these fees at any Loterica, Correio or Banco do Brasil, as well as whatever bank you use if you have an account. Keep the receipts to turn in at PF with the other documents.<br />
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You may have a small case of deja vu when doing this part. It's because you have did this exact same thing when you registered with the PF the first time. You have to pay for a new RNE every time.<br />
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<h2>
Copy Passport Pages - All of Them</h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Ls72-fj-XJRtfV0Q6AASYzx_wfIm_RWUSdCZ4ilMAX4ZbXZ16BkmScO4NWPc1ZbbVO5Jjgf6q-6XpBnk5i5eEPNcGuq6V1DCIRZWrizs7_eFUr9Z2LvJXHj-AcrvWDHIsizUolUX34g/s1600/Passport2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Ls72-fj-XJRtfV0Q6AASYzx_wfIm_RWUSdCZ4ilMAX4ZbXZ16BkmScO4NWPc1ZbbVO5Jjgf6q-6XpBnk5i5eEPNcGuq6V1DCIRZWrizs7_eFUr9Z2LvJXHj-AcrvWDHIsizUolUX34g/s1600/Passport2.jpeg" /></a></div>
Yes, even the ones with nothing on them. Don't make my mistake and think, "Well, they only wanted stamped pages and visas the first time. I'll just do that." Maybe you'll get lucky, but when in Brazil the rule should always be <i>better safe than sorry</i>.<br />
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I was told at my first prorrogação that all pages are required even though that wasn't the case the first time around. He sent me down the street to get the missing pages copied, then watched and waited while I put them in the correct order with the existing copies.<br />
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<h3>
Side Note - Getting Passport Pages Authenticated</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwa1S5_3JiGADh7o_tmublSXFKK3UVneqplNNGwJJec8GT3-UrBg1EMxWjE1K5-UEZuPhnBknYDEh4JFCVaUcUzrjBGpW5PHtsZxxTkT-qW0tiFnsD2whcRSZdWooqL6eG6VbtzrIgOkk/s1600/Cartorio.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwa1S5_3JiGADh7o_tmublSXFKK3UVneqplNNGwJJec8GT3-UrBg1EMxWjE1K5-UEZuPhnBknYDEh4JFCVaUcUzrjBGpW5PHtsZxxTkT-qW0tiFnsD2whcRSZdWooqL6eG6VbtzrIgOkk/s320/Cartorio.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
Technically the PF has the right to request that every individual copy of your passport pages are authenticated by a <i>cartório</i>. It is one of the finest examples of Brazilian red tape that this is on the list, and even more so an example of unnecessary use of power is the agent demands it.<br />
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If you find yourself being told to take the copies to a cartório to authenticate them, make any possible request for understanding and leniency. For example, is it possible to staple them all together and then only do the first page? Work your magic, and know that my fingers are crossed for you to get a nice agent.<br />
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If nothing works, expect to pay between R$3-5 per authenticated page.<br />
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The PF's list of requirements for prorrogação is <a href="http://www.pf.gov.br/servicos-pf/estrangeiro/prorrogacao-de-prazo-de-estada-de-visto-temporario-iv-estudante" target="_blank">here</a>, but be aware that it is a Portuguese only site. If you need English, it says:<br />
<ul>
<li>Application for extension</li>
<li>2 recent color photos with a white background, size 3x4</li>
<li>Authenticated copies of passport pages</li>
<li>Current RNE </li>
<li>Enrollment letter</li>
<li>Declaration from the school where you study</li>
<li>Proof of paid taxes (140090 and 140120, listed above)</li>
</ul>
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Do you have everything? Great! Now, go submit your documents and keep living the life you love in Brazil!<br />
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If you have found the information in this post valuable, please comment, share, or both! Make sure anyone that would find this valuable sees it.<br />
<br />
<i>The advice in this post is based on personal experience and material found on the Internet. No information should be taken as legal advice. All information is factual based on the writer's experience at the time of publishing. Locations and agents are major variables in this process. Do not expect every location or agent to be the same.</i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com2Florianópolis, Florianópolis - State of Santa Catarina, Brazil-27.5953778 -48.548049900000024-28.045627800000002 -49.193496900000021 -27.1451278 -47.902602900000026tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-17409218995306182362016-04-01T22:34:00.004-03:002016-04-01T22:47:02.326-03:00Why Failing Sucks, and What to Do About ItA short while ago, I noticed this pattern that I have. To say the least, it was less than glamorous. More specifically, it made me feel pretty shitty.<br />
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As a person who is REALLY hard on himself, I can get into some deep self loathing when I realize that I have a bad habit, have been doing something wrong, or have some kind of screw up.<br />
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I don't mean I get a dark cloud over my head, I mean I <i>become</i> the dark cloud. My friend Jennica quotes me on this.<br />
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So, when I realized this pattern, I put myself on hot coals for a little while.<br />
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Generally speaking, I find myself to be pretty positive, but I can transform to a whiny little bitch when I stagnate. Which, with apologies to those who had to hear it, is what happened.<br />
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I complained about not meeting my expectation for progress, something that was based on nothing qualifiable other than a desire.<br />
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Let's just say that this is definitely NOT what I want for my life. I know I can be better. I've lived it, and I much prefer it.<br />
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Recently, I have been reading personal development and entrepreneurial books as a source of motivation and inspiration. A common thread that these resources submit is setting small achievable goals.<br />
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For example, I want to be fluent in Portuguese. While that is my end game, it's not a small achievable goal.<br />
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If I set all my focus on this idea that I need to be fluent in order to reach the goal, I get frustrated at the first sign of trouble, i.e. not speaking fluently.<br />
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However, when I break down my end game into chunks (small achievable pieces) I work on one thing at a time and eventually get to that desired outcome.<br />
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Here's another example: a small achievable goal could be to meet my daily goal on Duolingo (30 XP) for an entire month. This exposes me to new vocabulary and grammar, and gives me a platform to practice a little.<br />
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This isn't anything huge, nor difficult, and I am not going to be fluent in Portuguese at the end. However, I will be better, I will feel good about my achievement, and I will be more likely to use the momentum of success (what Darren Hardy calls <i>big Mo</i>) to continue achieving my desired result.<br />
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So, now you are thinking, "What did you do to pull yourself outta the funk?"<br />
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To be honest, it actually was Duolingo. My small achievable task was doing Duolingo (30 XP) every day for a month.<br />
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I just figured it would be an easy start because I was out of the rhythm of practicing and studying. I thought I wasn't improving even though I was doing a little of various things.<br />
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Yesterday, I did it. Not only did I meet that goal, but I completed the entire Portuguese course on day 28 while maintaining full skill strength for all completed levels. Duolinguists, you know what that means.<br />
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Even more difficult than the Portuguese was maintaining the consistency. Now that it's April 1st, it feels damn good to know that I did it. Even though it wasn't a huge achievement, I know it helped me.<br />
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And this is the point. Small achievable goals. Boost yourself instead of becoming a punching bag by focusing on small parts of the process instead of big ones, or the desired result.<br />
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We don't need to feel like shit when we don't get the thing that we want most because we have the opportunity to feel awesome about taking one more step toward it. It's just a matter of perspective.<br />
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Not reaching a goal is going to feel awful, but to see what you are doing as a benefit toward that goal is even more powerful because, if you don't, you may end up stuck in a rut of stagnation, focused on what you're not doing.<br />
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That sounds the opposite of progress.<br />
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If you have any experiences like mine, where you felt like crap but did a spin move on your attitude, or maybe you are struggling with getting out of a rut right now, comment below and tell me about it.<br />
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If you have any interest in learning more about Duolingo, just go to your preferred app store and download it. It's free, easy to use, and fun. Don't hesitate, it's better than scrolling through feeds.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com4State of Santa Catarina, Brazil-27.595934774495042 -48.53759765625-28.046277774495042 -49.18304465625 -27.145591774495042 -47.89215065625tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-10371255071342627962016-02-24T00:54:00.000-03:002016-06-17T10:26:41.924-03:00How New Year Arrives Late in Brazil (or, How I Disappeared From TCL for Three Months)<div style="color: #333333; line-height: 24px;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You know that feeling you get when you go back to work on Monday after vacation? I think very few would call the feeling "inspiring."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Now imagine that you go to work on Monday, but Wednesday, Thursday and Friday are holidays. Now how do you feel? Are you telling yourself that you will wait to get serious until NEXT Monday?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I know from past experience, it means that I am waiting for the end of Tuesday to arrive so that I can start my extended weekend. Monday and Tuesday are like a waiting period similar to the time that passes while you wait to see a doctor.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Sound familiar?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">For those of us in Brazil, we experience an extended version of this between New Year's Day and Carnival. This is a time when people openly admit that life doesn't return to full swing until Carnival has passed. A recent <a href="http://www.markmorris.com/brazil" target="_blank">viral open letter post</a> playfully made reference to this fact.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">What's the result? For an American that is new to Brazil, this makes for a feeling of extended holidays. It means that the general vibe is more relaxed than I am used to. For an English teacher, it means you can bet your ass that no one wants to study until the hedonism of Carnival is gently tucked in for the year.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Once Carnival has passed, as it recently did, life goes back to normal.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Students study. Teachers teach. Rental properties are emptied. Traffic dies down. Employees return to work. Hobby bloggers even return to their keyboards (ahem).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It's almost as if the holiday season in Brazil, the holiday season that Americans are accustomed to getting two weeks for, is almost two months long.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">From Christmas to early February (this year), Brazilians kept attitudes light and thoughts on weekends, family time, travel, and trips to the beach.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Brazil is such a unique and beautiful place, it's no wonder its people are able to keep their focus on leisure. Maybe this is one reason the country has a reputation for taking its time when it comes to getting things done. Sometimes outsiders complain about this casual period, but I choose to see the positive side of it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This country has so much passion for life that it doesn't let the pressure of what they have to do the other ten months of the year take their concentration away from enjoying what's at hand. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Brazilians know that nothing is permanent, so they may as well enjoy as much as they can. There is no urgency to return to our routines and occupy ourselves with an abundance of focus on things that bring pressure and, sometimes, stress into our lives.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">These magically upbeat people choose to focus on the extra time they have with family and friends, the extra time they get to go play fresco ball, surf, or visit other cities and countries.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Are they milking it? I don't let myself see it that way.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">So, if you every hear someone complain about how hard it is to get things done in Brazil during the time between Christmas and Carnival, just remind them that there are important things in life that need their attention. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: xx-small;">Routines will always be there, maybe the time to create memories won't.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-35775833206363866572015-11-23T19:30:00.000-02:002015-11-23T22:24:26.874-02:00Anniversary Post: The Crummy Life Turns OneI think it all started out of angst. Have you ever done that? Started something because the tension you are feeling compels you to spring forward with action. To just do <i>something</i>.<br />
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The confusion about where to begin. The confusion about what it is all for. Then, finally, deciding it's just because that's what you want or need to do.<br />
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This is how The Crummy Life started.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_GpSkoCklPu8YjFLfjJe-JR0s6Ez2AVug46EzcRSvJjmg05IhDe3D1RHvgdTWXGh1rl7W0QzaW9LbkqoeD0APH4zdwPIqhdu4pr5RJhU53HTCrIZZL5GLTU3RvXk6lRo-kywEgtotq1s/s1600/2014-10-24+12.34.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_GpSkoCklPu8YjFLfjJe-JR0s6Ez2AVug46EzcRSvJjmg05IhDe3D1RHvgdTWXGh1rl7W0QzaW9LbkqoeD0APH4zdwPIqhdu4pr5RJhU53HTCrIZZL5GLTU3RvXk6lRo-kywEgtotq1s/s320/2014-10-24+12.34.48.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from the room where I started The Crummy Life</td></tr>
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I had felt a bit of shame for having failed to maintain my initial blogging effort during my maiden voyage to Thailand. Writing is something I've always enjoyed, and it feeds my inner narcissist through sharing stories and perspectives.<br />
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Today The Crummy Life turns one, so it's time to reflect on one year of blogging; how it all started, what I've gained through the experience, and where I plan to go from here.<br />
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The beginning</h2>
I was living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, which is a massive hub for the "location independent" or "digital nomad" types.<br />
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It was as if everyone had a website. I felt like bar talk was about SEO, and I couldn't hang out in the Nimman area without overhearing a conversation about a website, product launch, or at least having one foreigner fixed to a laptop with those big blocking-out-the-sound-of-the-world type headphones on.<br />
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Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining. That atmosphere produced an overwhelming kind of inspiration to just dive into the Internet and swim through waves of digital opportunity, creating a wake of optimized content for eager readers.<br />
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However, I just wanted to share my thoughts and experiences, not necessarily make money from it. Whatever the case, I had a desire to experience a piece of what these renegades of the technology world were in the middle of.<br />
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Then, I decided I didn't really care about being in the middle of their action, because, to be honest, I couldn't play at their level. It was almost as if I was a ten year old trying to play with the high school kids.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbP7zOs-7ysmqUEX5DEoEbxLxwJrnRv4XaziNAcwt5do-xr-nQpzo4dsxfipwm_p7DzkdavDZN54PSQU3COO7DE1beStI_l2PmXfV5NU4Ri18TozjCApvTAUFUHeF7g2Uov56CSyNMSms/s1600/Curious+cat+meme+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbP7zOs-7ysmqUEX5DEoEbxLxwJrnRv4XaziNAcwt5do-xr-nQpzo4dsxfipwm_p7DzkdavDZN54PSQU3COO7DE1beStI_l2PmXfV5NU4Ri18TozjCApvTAUFUHeF7g2Uov56CSyNMSms/s1600/Curious+cat+meme+2.jpeg" /></a>I decided to be self taught, and to just go for it. I realized that I just really like to write, so it didn't matter if I have a purpose or plan for what it all "means" or what it was "for." Then I started a Blogger site and began to play with my ideas, because sharing my ideas with people was surely a better option than letting it all sit in my head.<br />
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So, on November 23rd, 2014, I wrote <a href="http://thecrummylife.blogspot.com.br/2014/11/curiosity-did-not-kill-cat.html#more" target="_blank">a post about</a> pursuing curiosity, and that's how it all began.<br />
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One year later</h2>
Fast forward to today, and here I am in Florianópolis, Brazil.<br />
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I've been lucky enough to have written from four different countries, but it's not like that prevented me from writing some less than good posts. Possibly garbage, actually. On the other hand, I've written some things that have helped people, and nothing has brought me greater joy than receiving a grateful comment after someone reads a post.<br />
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Of all the hobbies and interests that have come and go over the years, writing The Crummy Life has motivated me in new ways and allowed me to use some things that I'd be doing even if I wasn't writing posts.<br />
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For example, I'd already be searching the Internet, reading articles and blogs, wanting to expand my ideas, and feeling the desire to talk about them with people. This blog has allowed me to exercise these interests and skills to start a conversation with anyone that is reading. Also, linking in resources has allowed me to connect readers with what I've found.<br />
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The process has certainly improved my writing, which was one of my initial goals. Some posts still end up like digital diary entries (like this one), but I believe they always have a purpose in mind.<br />
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Maybe I'm comparing cultures and experiences, or maybe I am providing an instructional breakdown of some complicated process, but I am always writing with the intention of helping anyone reading, and starting a conversation with them.<br />
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It's been a fun process, too. Updating the appearance of the blog, learning how to manipulate code, testing out ways to make the site more attractive and the posts easily accessible are all things I consider skill development. As simple as they may be, they are things I can do now that I couldn't before I started The Crummy Life.<br />
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This last year of blogging has also taught me that I tend to take things too seriously. The upside of that fact is that it influences me to do my best at whatever I give my attention to, and I hope you feel that when you are reading.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Js-ns1Yc5_6K76X1poZ3I_7gQm1i8fUNiqP3qh8OVcvMXstdvOy8DBAet2dNdlBH7MoNRlg8UQ90y9wFbRabNzXiZQoxYsA1Jd0nE916ovQ2dyH6UHJLJGHhhlIeGSYukXdIocIW3fs/s1600/JCBrasilItaguacu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="119" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Js-ns1Yc5_6K76X1poZ3I_7gQm1i8fUNiqP3qh8OVcvMXstdvOy8DBAet2dNdlBH7MoNRlg8UQ90y9wFbRabNzXiZQoxYsA1Jd0nE916ovQ2dyH6UHJLJGHhhlIeGSYukXdIocIW3fs/s320/JCBrasilItaguacu.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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What's next?</h2>
In the upcoming year, I plan to make videos to accompany some of the posts. It'll give me another way to share experiences, and make the site a little more dynamic for you.<br />
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I can't say that I won't write more garbage, and when I do, just know that for some reason I was blinded by the idea that the content was important enough to share. Stay tuned for the next leg of the digital journey. Without a doubt, I'll continue to produce things that I want to share with you as if we were sitting down having a conversation.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1hlXUkx8jKxZMBzfV295_RFipHQKnxy2Oat_TU5wiDlJrR2MkjXY098JBjZjLTxwpXdn82y_34BNAm7J7NvkTIpsZ_6CMGWTmzLhay4jHm7XMUnnchCogJn_fOuiM7HcM6UTBDaYSuxE/s1600/Thanks+Languages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1hlXUkx8jKxZMBzfV295_RFipHQKnxy2Oat_TU5wiDlJrR2MkjXY098JBjZjLTxwpXdn82y_34BNAm7J7NvkTIpsZ_6CMGWTmzLhay4jHm7XMUnnchCogJn_fOuiM7HcM6UTBDaYSuxE/s320/Thanks+Languages.jpg" width="320" /></a>Remember that you can always contact me directly by going to the <a href="http://thecrummylife.blogspot.com.br/p/contact-crum.html" target="_blank">contact page</a> and sending me an email. I'd love to hear from you!<br />
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Lastly, I want to give you a sincere <b>THANK YOU</b> for being a part of my blogging experience.<br />
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See you next post!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com0Florianópolis, Florianópolis - State of Santa Catarina, Brazil-27.5953778 -48.548049900000024-28.045627800000002 -49.193496900000021 -27.1451278 -47.902602900000026tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-28446857152244839952015-11-22T12:25:00.001-02:002015-11-30T23:40:33.844-02:00Thailand and Brazil: Side-by-Side Reflections on Adapting AbroadI've now adapted in a short list of countries, and the two that have given me the greatest amount of time to go through the process and develop deeper observations are Thailand and Brazil, respectively. It's time to reflect on some of the differences, as I try to rummage through my thoughts to see what I might share with Tom.<br />
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"Hey," he said to me as I turned to exit the room, "don't fuck it up."<br />
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So goes the general and less than eloquent advice of one of my greatest influences. They were applicable to just about anything, but always reserved for those moments when he knew that a person needed an extra prod to strive for greatness, and the comment would land perfectly so you knew what it was about.<br />
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His emphatic comments, critiques, and advice were always delivered to keep you motivated toward a goal and simplify difficulty. "Differences aren't dangerous," he would say, "they're just different. It's how you deal with them that matters."<br />
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The list of things that my intercultural mentor would imprint in my brain goes on. I really miss that man.<br />
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This post is a swift breakdown of some things you can expect to be confronted by as you drift across most national borders, presented through the lens of a side-by-side comparison of my homes away from home a little less informally than Tom would hear it.<br />
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Communicating with locals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ffmOPp8oSoiToynfAyaJRc7Atx9K74-pK6JMZae-s6KL3njOpTahlvRm9967JRZYkkxkmRpRzKCrVZc_X-eGzY03fMo6xJqhdNcrEr2BYatqfl35myOvKTZPvi-fELYp2I4nnYpMlS4/s1600/Can%2527t+speak+Thai.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ffmOPp8oSoiToynfAyaJRc7Atx9K74-pK6JMZae-s6KL3njOpTahlvRm9967JRZYkkxkmRpRzKCrVZc_X-eGzY03fMo6xJqhdNcrEr2BYatqfl35myOvKTZPvi-fELYp2I4nnYpMlS4/s320/Can%2527t+speak+Thai.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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One of the most obvious barriers that is going to pop up when you are in another country is language. The struggle seems greater the larger the linguistic difference is, but I assure you, it's not as difficult as you might think. That's just your brain trying to encourage you to stay comfortable.<br />
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Living and travelling abroad are experiences I am so grateful for, and a lot of that feeling comes from how it taught me a level of patience and problem solving I don't think I would have learned in other circumstances. Furthermore, communication is definitely one of the greatest channels for enhancing patience and problem solving.<br />
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With the initial lack of skills to navigate menus or talk to vendors at markets, it was necessary to point, or use calculators to shop and haggle. On one hand you feel ridiculous, on the other you have strategically maneuvered around a barrier to find a way to get what you need, or want.<br />
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Thai (no, people in Thailand DO NOT speak Taiwanese... a serious assumption that people have repeatedly made) was a much larger linguistic gap, with a completely different alphabet, tonal pronunciation, and a range of sounds that are a stretch from the foundations of English.<br />
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Brazilian Portuguese isn't as big of a struggle because of shared alphabet, sounds and vocabulary, however it is not without its difficulties. Nasal vowels, plural adjectives, and the difference in how time is referenced grammatically will still give you the run around if you aren't on a constant grind to lock down your skills.<br />
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Spending money<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Exchange rates are a fun thing to play with, and some people are smart enough to make great money by paying close attention to currency trends. While I'm not one of these people, I am definitely one that enjoys accounting for how far you can stretch a dollar in whatever currency I'm using in a country.<br />
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In Thailand, your money can go incredibly far. At approximately thirty to one, you can get meals for about $1, and hour massages for about seven. I rented a bungalow on the beach for about $6 a day, a week that cost less than the cheapest nights in an American motel.<br />
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Brazil isn't as favorable of an exchange rate, but also offers plenty of ways to keep your spending low and the rates in your favor. Here in Floripa, it is possible to rent a beach side studio for about $130 per month. Then, <a href="http://thecrummylife.blogspot.com.br/2015/10/5-things-from-brazil.html" target="_blank">kilo restaurants</a> offer a great place to get a wide variety of food while picking your own price.<br />
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One thing that Thailand and Brazil share is that people are commonly underpaid, and cost of living deters people's ability to save money. This keeps many people in constant cycle of spending all they make and doing a balancing act with credit. Come to think of it, that sounds a bit like the US.<br />
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The work scene<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Not everyone wants to work abroad, but since it is part of my reality, I want to include it. Finding jobs is an experience that can have a great deal of variety depending on not only the country, but also person.<br />
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I remember talking to people that struggled to find stable work in Asia, and others that just fell into great jobs that helped them network into a blossoming career in a variety of industries.<br />
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Thailand gave me some interesting stories about people that had been less than honest when pursuing jobs, only to receive excellent pay and benefits because the firm didn't follow up with their references or experience.<br />
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In Brazil, landing substantial work is much harder. The fields are competitive and companies commonly give preference to Brazilian candidates. This causes many foreigners to work in the unofficial job market, which means they are like freelancers without contracts, delivering on projects or working with companies without being official employees.<br />
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Using the roadways<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Getting around is essential to travel and living abroad, and many countries have effectively organized a multiplicity of ways for people to navigate without falling into dependency on taxis or walking.<br />
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If you are traveling, it is likely that public transportation is going to suffice. However, if you relocate abroad, or stay a long period in a place, you are likely to want a mode that supplements your independance.<br />
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Thailand is known for having a manic motorbike scene, but it is nothing like Vietnam. The organized chaos and unwritten rules that dictate the Thai driving experience may seem like a web of confusion for those who don't fully grasp it. In time, a driver has very clear expectations of how to act on the road, and driving seems less suicidal and more controlled.<br />
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Brazil still baffles me a bit, even though I have driven and feel just fine behind the wheel. In fact, I am much more comfortable driving a car than a motorbike here in Brazil. This may be because in Brazil you drive on the same side of the road as the US, but I tend to think that it is because Brazilian motorcyclists are simply hell on two wheels. Driving a motorbike in Thailand for over a year did not give me enough confidence to jump behind the handlebars in Brazil.<br />
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Filling your belly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In Thailand food is, without a doubt, cheaper. I would argue that it is better, as well, but that is because I enjoy the plethora of flavors that are common in Thai food. In Brazil, it's not that the food is bland so much as there just isn't as great of a variety of spices to enhance flavor. Generally speaking, salt and pepper are the king and queen of flavor, while onions and meat are used to supplement flavors in other dishes.<br />
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One thing that these two countries share is an affinity for fried food. Glooway tawd (กล้วยทอด), or deep fried bananas, will forever have a place in my heart when it comes to Thai fried things, and in Brazil, it is hard to beat a pastel with proper filling.<br />
As for cooking, many smaller apartments in Thailand don't have kitchens, and people buy appliances to cook on the patio because there isn't ventilation in the apartment for cooking. I lived in a couple of houses in Thailand that had a double burner stove that sat on the counter in the kitchen, to which a tank of gas was attached by hose.<br />
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An apartment of equal size in Brazil is likely to have a stove that may be attached to a tank of gas, but it isn't going to be a pair of burners on the counter. The apartments in Brazil are likely to have a smaller version of the western style oven with a stovetop.<br />
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Making friends<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Thailand has a great scene of travellers, artists, teachers, NGO workers, entrepreneurs, and more. You just can't go long without meeting people that ignite enthusiasm for life. People who have relocated to stretch their dollar while they launch a startup, all the way to those that work with refugee assistance NGOs, the variety of passions and perspectives sticks you right in the middle of creativity and inspiration. The Facebook groups in Thailand that unite foreigners around different personal and professional interests also exacerbates this access to new people.<br />
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Brazil has an interesting expat scene. In Floripa, many of the foreigners are either exchange students or older people that are married to a Brazilian. The vagabond types that come from all over the world to immerse in the riches of Asia are, here in southern Brazil, commonly assumed to be Argentinians that live on a fine line between homeless and backpacker.<br />
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The Sun and the rain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The sun in both countries is strong enough to burn the fair-skinned just by stepping outside to toss the trash. Furthermore, the weather might change at the drop of a hat, and the sunny morning will be washed away dark clouds and afternoon rain. However, there is a unique difference that I have observed since arriving in Floripa.<br />
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The rain in Thailand was torrential, but it didn't often linger for long periods of time. Thick, dark clouds would roll in, wind would whip up out of nowhere, and a heavy deluge would flood the street in less than an hour. Then, like an angry person just forgot why they were mad, the rain could stop, clouds would get thin, and all that would remain is a light breeze, cooler temps, and the water lingering in the streets.<br />
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In southern Brazil it is much different. Here, it is common for the rain to linger for days at a constant light drizzle. The moisture is just strong enough to keep everything wet, but light enough that you feel like the end is near. It produces a very tense feeling, and it reminds me of how people speak of the feeling you get living in Seattle. Needless to say, I am looking forward to the approach of Summer.<br />
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Regardless of their differences, Brazil and Thailand have both given me great opportunities to adapt to new ways, learn new languages, navigate new lands, adopt new habits and perspectives, and make new friends who've only enhanced every part of it.<br />
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Did I forget something? Do you have an experience to share from another country? Write in the comments below about anything that you experienced abroad regarding these topics, or something I missed.<br />
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I look forward to reading your comments and stories! And before you beat me up too bad, remember that what I say regarding Brazil is after three months.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com1Florianópolis, Florianópolis - State of Santa Catarina, Brazil-27.5953778 -48.548049900000024-28.045627800000002 -49.193496900000021 -27.1451278 -47.902602900000026tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-78451330741731149692015-11-02T21:10:00.001-02:002015-11-10T00:57:06.609-02:00Challenge Update 2 - Atualização de Desafio 2<div style="text-align: left;">
Nós estamos aqui de novo. Uma outra semana já passou, e mais prática completou. </div>
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Oops, here I am on The Crummy Life. Time to switch back to English. </div>
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This last week was a fun time trying to apply my Portuguese skills to my life behind me. I say behind me because, to practice speaking in the past and making the necessary conjugations in my head, I spent much of the week talking about days and years passed.</div>
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I want to give a big THANK YOU to <a href="https://beta.italki.com/teacher/1067195" target="_blank">Murillo</a>, the teacher that made the biggest impression on me during the October Challenge. Thanks for all of your help, especially with <i>pretérito imperfeito</i>, which was incredibly confusing before you broke it down and forced me to use it.</div>
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That's all for now, so watch the video and have a laugh!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com0Florianópolis, Florianópolis - State of Santa Catarina, Brazil-27.5953778 -48.548049900000024-28.045627800000002 -49.193496900000021 -27.1451278 -47.902602900000026tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-79816681838820795842015-10-26T23:37:00.000-02:002015-10-27T11:41:54.845-02:00Challenge Update 1 - Atualização de Desafio 1As promised, I am here to deliver my language challenge update for my first completed week of the italki October Language Challenge.<br />
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It was a busy week, and a fun weekend applying some of what I had practiced all week. I had a great time with some friends in one of the many beautiful places that make up Floripa.<br />
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My first week of the challenge went great, so check out the video to see what I accomplished, and what I've got lined up before it finishes on the 31st.<br />
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Until next time, <i>tchau</i>! And don't forget to hang on until the end of the video... the bloopers are worth it!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com2Lagoa da Conceição, Brazil-27.5605638 -48.45374240000001-27.6731728 -48.615103900000008 -27.4479548 -48.292380900000012tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-15024893481347884912015-10-26T22:30:00.000-02:002015-10-28T09:20:02.622-02:005 Things to Take Home From BrazilDo you remember how good you felt the last time you stepped into a new city, experienced a new thrill, or met someone that really captured your attention?<br />
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When people move to a new place, or even just visit, they start off in "the honeymoon phase." This magical time is filled with the thought that, like a teeneager in a fresh romance, all of these new things are amazing.<br />
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It is only natural that a person is going to like some things during this phase so much that they will think, "Why don't I do it like that?" With that idea in mind, I want to offer you five things that have only furthered my fascination of and appreciation for <i>the Brazilian way</i>.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Don't worry about the "itis"</span></div>
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In the US, many people are familiar with this term "the itis." We use it to refer to the super lazy feeling we get after we eat a lot of food, and you can think of it like a sleep inducing food hangover. With much appreciation for the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNh_mQo9fXo" target="_blank">Chapelle Show skit</a>, we can definitely get this feeling from more than just ribs.</div>
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This sluggish feeling often crawls into our lives after we have a large meal, and is a recipe for making everything harder to do. Personally, I feel that I am less productive for about an hour after lunch due to the itis. A sloth-like quality is definitely not a way to describe a high functioning human.<br />
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Brazilians have a little custom which follows lunch that knocks the itis out: the <i>cafezinho </i>(little coffee). This is a free, small coffee that you can enjoy at the end of a meal in a restaurant. Not only do I love this custom because I enjoy coffee, but also because it helps pump me up at a time that, without it, I might be struck by the itis.<br />
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No doubt the normality of the cafezinho is influenced by the fact that Brazil has, historically, maintained coffee as a major export. Regardless, I'll take it!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLLtaVV72f1dvG8_0LvAF0Ug6LeTPimtwtfF19NXcdxKR81yhAetCV-XtlEAteysyJGQSZU-DOdLFSdkxDo_EhE-reAlR0sLUtCnEgOa6F3H3u4oXMBj2vf3I1pQE4qbBfk681ho_zQKI/s1600/cafezinho.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLLtaVV72f1dvG8_0LvAF0Ug6LeTPimtwtfF19NXcdxKR81yhAetCV-XtlEAteysyJGQSZU-DOdLFSdkxDo_EhE-reAlR0sLUtCnEgOa6F3H3u4oXMBj2vf3I1pQE4qbBfk681ho_zQKI/s1600/cafezinho.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Pausa para um cafezinho</i> - Pause for a little coffee</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Don't fear the scale</span></div>
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This is something unique to Brazil, and actually where I had my first cafezinho. These restaurants weigh your food by the kilogram to determine the price you pay, simple as that. You come in, load up a plate, then slide your plate onto a scale. It's fantastic!<br />
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The buffet is like a high quality cafeteria lunch line with way more options. Once the plate of food is weighed, you commonly get a ticket indicating how much your plate costs. Getting a ticket rather than paying immediately is a great part of this system because it allows you to go back for seconds, should you not get your fill.<br />
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Not satisfied with that idea? Want to eat as much as you want? Well, they have the <i>livre </i>price, too, which is the Brazilian version of all-you-can-eat. This way, you pay one price and take unlimited trips until you feel like you'll burst.</div>
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At a kilo, you're never caught in the dilemma of choosing between two options, or not getting what you want because it is more than you want to spend.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">R$13.90 for lunch is currently about US$3.61</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. Who got what, and how much was it?</span></div>
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In the States, isn't it annoying when you go to a restaurant and a table of eight has to figure out how much to pay on one bill? As a waiter or bartender, isn't it a bit annoying to split up bills, or take multiple cards? Forget that there are apps for that, Brazil has a solution!<br />
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Separate tickets that you get when you enter the bar or sit at a table in a restaurant prevent this hassle from ever occurring. This way everything is split in advance. When you want to pay for your date, it is quite easy to add two tickets together.</div>
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No more, "Well I had this meal and this drink, and she had that meal, only drank water, but got dessert. How much do we owe?" or sitting around like a herd of geometry students tapping away at a calculator to divide the bill, tax and tip. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijquMZGWScb2-CKHq0Cg_WP0gKTcNeKLGvLKBNKKiQ58ov2dMMK2sYws1lFO26Lhw2hZOZ9a-2a_GFoWpmI6NxsSQIVgT0vffxuhXzu6CI_AgBtGRE5GXQ1YNvtb-2A3jdplUfpW9fz34/s1600/a+conta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijquMZGWScb2-CKHq0Cg_WP0gKTcNeKLGvLKBNKKiQ58ov2dMMK2sYws1lFO26Lhw2hZOZ9a-2a_GFoWpmI6NxsSQIVgT0vffxuhXzu6CI_AgBtGRE5GXQ1YNvtb-2A3jdplUfpW9fz34/s320/a+conta.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When everyone at the table has one, splitting is easy</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. Reading braille with your feet</span></div>
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I know we have the unique and progressive system of using guide dogs in the US, but that is not universal, unfortunately. Brazil has a really cool approach to assisting the visually impaired and blind.<br />
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Just about everywhere you go, there are texture parts of the sidewalks and pathways that are aimed at guiding the visually impaired as they navigate the landscape. There are different textures of these tiles so the walker knows when the end of a path is approaching or changing directions.<br />
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I know other countries do this, too, so it's not just Brazil that has implemented this helpful urban feature. However, I don't think I have ever noticed on quite the scale that I have seen it here in Floripa.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL47pqDRb6tjwjvneUYe1EevotcEcxQHVfDxNeDhasX_XnywcPul_-Nc6cN7ebSWuCZkZ12F7OlO5s05v17c3TmnJ-tVusiM0wBtPKG4zNsAW19EjEhiJbaQ2XXlg77PmxpXhsFVmexz4/s1600/Braille+for+feet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL47pqDRb6tjwjvneUYe1EevotcEcxQHVfDxNeDhasX_XnywcPul_-Nc6cN7ebSWuCZkZ12F7OlO5s05v17c3TmnJ-tVusiM0wBtPKG4zNsAW19EjEhiJbaQ2XXlg77PmxpXhsFVmexz4/s320/Braille+for+feet.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notice that texture indicates an upcoming change</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. Bring the bottle back before buying</span></div>
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Cash Redemption Value (CRV) is fee that you pay upfront and are supposed to get back if you return the bottle. How many people do you know that actually use this system? If you or someone you know does use it, I would guess the method is to stock up on glass, then take a load to in and cash out.<br />
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Here in Brazil, there is a system like CRV built into the bar or market. You don't go to the recycling center with all of your glass, get a voucher, then exchange it for money. In Brazil you can return to a bar or market with a bottle and get a redemption value discount when you buy another. They even have machine that facilitate the exchange!<br />
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Brazil does this because they sterilize and reuse bottles. This system is something that I also experienced in Laos, and I really appreciated it because recycling glass is of the <a href="http://grist.org/article/pain-in-the-glass/" target="_blank">least energy and economically efficient processes</a>. However, in Laos, you don't get a discount when you return the bottle. In this way, I think Brazil has them beat.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOEoBrtLNBLHMtMilIAjcaF469hUiSyY8f2YxfQ4T2D8rwr6yw6p7fkjdKr3Lrc9G8-PMMx5LdEWXT8oP5M3Oi_5-BuHnkpBHndlv3C5FjXQRkyXt6IeqUwRnpor3SxqW3U0uuaz0wVd8/s1600/Garrafas+de+cerveja.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOEoBrtLNBLHMtMilIAjcaF469hUiSyY8f2YxfQ4T2D8rwr6yw6p7fkjdKr3Lrc9G8-PMMx5LdEWXT8oP5M3Oi_5-BuHnkpBHndlv3C5FjXQRkyXt6IeqUwRnpor3SxqW3U0uuaz0wVd8/s1600/Garrafas+de+cerveja.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Garrafas reaproveitadas</i>, or reused bottled being prepped for nectar</td></tr>
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These five things are simple things that have grabbed my attention only because they are generally routine parts of life here in Brazil. Adapting to a new place is one of the aspects of the adventure that I find most intriguing. This makes me seek out the ways to make my day-to-day more like my hosts, rather than trying to make my routine abroad like it was in States.<br />
<br />
Our habits are a great influence on our lives, so I believe it is a great privilege to have exposure to other countries so I may pick and choose habits from these places that influence me. Next time I go back to the US, you can be sure that I am going to be bringing some things with me, just don't expect them to be material possessions.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-56443847103962719212015-10-21T15:03:00.001-02:002015-10-21T15:03:39.373-02:00October italki Language Challenge Public PledgeIt's time again for a challenge!<br />
<br />
Today is the fourth day of the challenge, and I have already finished three hours! Only three more to go, and ten days to do it. No problem!<br />
<br />
italki has brought back the language challenge for October, this time challenging participants to finish six hours of classes in fourteen days. Between October 18th - 31st, anyone who is signed up for the challenge can get a $20 rebate on money spent taking classes once they complete the six hours, plus an extra $5 if you post a public pledge video.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
I am a total sucker for a discount, so of course I made the video. Anyone who remembers me taking the challenge italki did in June knows that I did a video for that challenge. This time around is no different, and the new video comes with a little bonus at the end. So, go watch, laugh with me, and leave a comment. Remember, this video represents my ability after starting to speak roughly six months ago.<br />
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Anyone that wants to improve your ability in another language, leave me a comment, or send me an email from my <a href="http://thecrummylife.blogspot.com.br/p/contact-crum.html" target="_blank">contact page</a> to ask for details on language learning strategies and success. Also, check a previous post of mine that details <a href="http://thecrummylife.blogspot.com.br/2015_07_01_archive.html" target="_blank">how to successfully complete an italki language challenge</a>.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-17332659817823560012015-10-07T01:06:00.002-03:002018-06-01T19:25:15.128-03:00A Hassle-free Guide to Obtaining a Brazilian Visa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Brazil is known as being a country that can turn just about any process into a bureaucratic circus. It doesn't take much exposure or Internet research to find stories of paper pushing and hoop jumping in a variety of contexts. Don't let that turn you away, it's well worth the work if you are looking to get south of the Equator to experience what anyone who has been here boasts about.<br />
<br />
This beautiful country hosts a rich, vibrant culture that captivates anyone who gets near because it's energetic, passionate and contagious. The following breakdown will ensure that you can get your visa <i>sem problemas</i> (without problems).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Js-ns1Yc5_6K76X1poZ3I_7gQm1i8fUNiqP3qh8OVcvMXstdvOy8DBAet2dNdlBH7MoNRlg8UQ90y9wFbRabNzXiZQoxYsA1Jd0nE916ovQ2dyH6UHJLJGHhhlIeGSYukXdIocIW3fs/s1600/JCBrasilItaguacu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Js-ns1Yc5_6K76X1poZ3I_7gQm1i8fUNiqP3qh8OVcvMXstdvOy8DBAet2dNdlBH7MoNRlg8UQ90y9wFbRabNzXiZQoxYsA1Jd0nE916ovQ2dyH6UHJLJGHhhlIeGSYukXdIocIW3fs/s400/JCBrasilItaguacu.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Just So You Know . . .</span><br />
Brazil practices what they call "reciprocity," which means they are going to treat anyone entering Brazil as the traveler's country would treat a Brazilian. For example, as an American, I had to go through a process that emulates what a Brazilian goes through when trying to go to America.<br />
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This seems like a fair deal, but then we must consider the aforementioned about bureaucracy. For Americans, and many other westerners, we aren't used to nearly as much documentation, notarizing, and producing records because they're unnecessary when traveling the majority of the world.<br />
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So, what does it all mean for the visa process? Well, then, let's get to it. After all, you're one of the people scouring the Internet for an effective relocation strategy.<br />
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However, before I explain the process, I must say that this post serves to update the inconsistencies and outdated information that I found during all my searching, so be sure to check the posting date of any info you find. I hope that what follows helps you in your endeavors.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPD4DUx2GbKLAizjg3EYvjLfDJjvEmNBtMget-ETkFXxqnt-vFzvBNr_GiIA4NGj7uZeRVIOApOgn2wdXl5k8BhSwczWhjH8Fzu58KsRRKiLGDPUTaoPZQxVy0eVaThRowYP5aND8h4NA/s1600/Move2Floripa.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPD4DUx2GbKLAizjg3EYvjLfDJjvEmNBtMget-ETkFXxqnt-vFzvBNr_GiIA4NGj7uZeRVIOApOgn2wdXl5k8BhSwczWhjH8Fzu58KsRRKiLGDPUTaoPZQxVy0eVaThRowYP5aND8h4NA/s400/Move2Floripa.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hercílio Luz Bridge, Floripa</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Starting The Process</span><br />
Once I knew that I was moving to Floripa, or Florianópolis, I began searching for all relevant information about relocating to Brazil, and more specifically, that city. I searched high and low for anything related to my situation:<br />
<ul>
<li>I had already finished university</li>
<li>I have experience working as a teacher of English to speakers of other languages</li>
<li>I wanted to stay in Brazil as long as possible</li>
<li>I wanted to learn Portuguese as quickly and effectively as possible to facilitate my relocation success.</li>
</ul>
After quite a bit of Internet searching and reading, the information led me to pursuing a student visa. I had found a blog post that indicated UFSC, or Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, would produce an enrollment letter for gringos that enrolled in Portuguese classes. However, that is no longer the case, and the way I figured it out is direct from the source.<br />
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Luckily, I made a connection with someone at UFSC in registration, and she told me that this program, Portuguese for foreigners, has been abused to the point that they only offer enrollment letters for visas to people fully enrolled as exchange students. No more enrollment letters for people only studying Portuguese.<br />
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This was an incredibly lucky connection when considering the horrors others experienced when attempting to communicate with schools and administration at various schools in Brazil.<br />
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So, I kept searching and, with the advice of a Brazilian friend, checked out a private university that also offers Portuguese classes to foreigners. Here is a <a href="https://www.unisul.br/wps/portal/home/ensino/cursos-de-curta-duracao/extensao/portuguese-language-and-brazilian-culture-for-foreigners">link</a> to their webpage about the program. I emailed the <a href="https://www.unisul.br/wps/portal/home/ensino/cursos-de-curta-duracao/extensao/portuguese-language-and-brazilian-culture-for-foreigners/contact-us" target="_blank">contact address</a>, and got a reply within a few days. I was amazed, because I expected to experience what I had been reading about!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRxRcn8nR03ewCHbg077xajYUpR9jx6h_TbAM-H8cICODyghCHhRv-eHQU3B2p2fJUX8MxyVseQ9hlWBIACKUj5Qfk_grS1twCIvkUu8Be2TDSnBTta5e9jXbbIN3M5sA27VrFGxoR4_0/s1600/JCBrasilUniSul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRxRcn8nR03ewCHbg077xajYUpR9jx6h_TbAM-H8cICODyghCHhRv-eHQU3B2p2fJUX8MxyVseQ9hlWBIACKUj5Qfk_grS1twCIvkUu8Be2TDSnBTta5e9jXbbIN3M5sA27VrFGxoR4_0/s320/JCBrasilUniSul.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The email requested some information to get me enrolled, and indicated that there would be a deposit of R$220 (approximately USD$70, £45 or €63, at the time I paid it). The cost of the extensive course, R$1500, could be paid in full after arrival. The school also offers an intensive course for R$2000. Once the semester approaches, they will email you a link to a preliminary online proficiency test, then you will take a written exam and have an informal interview after you arrive.<br />
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Next, I went to the website of the Brazilian Consulate in my jurisdiction to schedule the appointment to submit my documents. Definitely make the appointment with your consulate or embassy as soon as possible! Some are very impacted, depending on where you are in the world. Mine was booked out for nearly two months from the date I made the appointment.<br />
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To find the consulate in your jurisdiction, the best thing to do is a Google search of "Brazil consulate (name of your city/country)." Go to the homepage, find the link for appointments and follow the directions. Remember, you must fill out the online application <u>before</u> you make the appointment.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVw-G4_ZaRo7Va-ZDWSeOLiEc_xbarxI5_k6vD6IARFX1kKs67G57Rn7ILmPkzPvDMxbfyCzKYRGnACdmLBUwT0kAhTfha7iQwHrgpyGxmKJpyiXskyr0tvpvS1TXQF6kkwXiBwg3igbA/s1600/GoogleBRConsulate.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVw-G4_ZaRo7Va-ZDWSeOLiEc_xbarxI5_k6vD6IARFX1kKs67G57Rn7ILmPkzPvDMxbfyCzKYRGnACdmLBUwT0kAhTfha7iQwHrgpyGxmKJpyiXskyr0tvpvS1TXQF6kkwXiBwg3igbA/s400/GoogleBRConsulate.png" width="400" /></a></div>
After you complete the application, make the appointment. Then head over to the student visa (VITEM-IV) requirements page, print it, and use it as a checklist. I have read the requirements page from a handful of other countries, and they really don't vary much, if at all. However, it's best to get the most accurate results specific for you, so be sure to refer to that list.<br />
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Lastly, I made sure to gather all the information on the list before I had my interview. What follows is the list that is currently on the <a href="http://saofrancisco.itamaraty.gov.br/en-us/visa_types.xml" target="_blank">consulate page of my jurisdiction</a>:<br />
<ul>
<li>Valid passport, expiration date at least 6 months after your arrival date in Brazil</li>
<li>Application form, filled out online, confirmation form printed</li>
<li>One passport size photo of yourself, white background only</li>
<li>Copy of enrollment document at Brazilian institution AND a letter confirming that you will study there</li>
<li>Proof of financial means in Brazil (more on this later)</li>
<li>Proof of health insurance valid in Brazil</li>
<li>Anyone under 18 needs a notarized letter of consent signed by parents</li>
<li>Anyone over 18 must produce a recent (no older than 90-days) non-criminal record from the FBI, or equivalent for your country (more on this later)</li>
<li>A copy of your birth certificate with both parents' full names</li>
<li>A copy of your travel itinerary, round-trip plane ticket, or confirmation of such purchase</li>
<li>Proof of residency in the jurisdiction of the consulate you are requesting the visa from</li>
<li>Reciprocity fee, which is $160 for Americans, only accepted as USPS money order</li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0v3xPwZ1VRFb28vP7zmFHy9ICbb-LLPmjzCZwqkh03UN-daVACRxD0rH369lx8ZJ2EAnrWkpZ47ZFZzkDEOdJe-BYFXTVSWwyhy5oTWVityHGEfMtTiAV7BrSnd-beR5u2onKsicPoqQ/s1600/VistoDoBrasil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0v3xPwZ1VRFb28vP7zmFHy9ICbb-LLPmjzCZwqkh03UN-daVACRxD0rH369lx8ZJ2EAnrWkpZ47ZFZzkDEOdJe-BYFXTVSWwyhy5oTWVityHGEfMtTiAV7BrSnd-beR5u2onKsicPoqQ/s400/VistoDoBrasil.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My VITEM-IV visa</td></tr>
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There are additional requirements for anyone wanting to enroll as a full time undergraduate or graduate student, but since I am assuming readers are using the student visa as a means for staying staying in Brazil and not completing a degree, I am not going to address that.<br />
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At the appointment, I simply handed over the documents for the officer to review. I collated them so they were in the same order as the requirements list so she could confirm each document as she went down her list.<br />
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You can also bring a pre-paid letter size envelope to have your passport mailed back to you. If you live far away from the consulate, this is a nice option so that you don't need to be inconvenienced with returning.<br />
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Once I arrived in Brazil and had my orientation at the university, one of the administrators told me that it is possible to extend the student visa for up to two years. To be clear, that came from a school administrator, and not an immigration or consular officer, so you might get different information depending on who you ask.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Extra Considerations</span><br />
The enrollment document and confirmation letter from the university should take about two weeks, but it's smart to get it out of the way early because it's international mail. You never know when there's going to be a Brazilian postal service strike. Seriously, it's almost an annual occurrence.<br />
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Consider using a channeller for the background check it you are not willing to wait 12+ weeks for the results. I used <a href="http://www.myfbireport.com/" target="_blank">My FBI Report</a> because I was under an extreme time restraint and they advertise a 48 hour turnaround on records requests. Sure enough, I got fingerprinted at ID Solutions in San Francisco on a Wednesday at 2 o'clock, and the results were delivered to my house at about 2:20pm on Friday. Incredibly efficient and precise.<br />
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If you are providing financial support documents, be sure to bring a notarized affidavit of financial support (<a href="http://sistemas.mre.gov.br/kitweb/datafiles/Miami/en-us/file/AFFIDAVIT%20OF%20SUPPORT.pdf" target="_blank">example here</a>) to validate that the support is official. This is not on the list of requirements, but they requested it in my interview. I just had my dad write a letter of emergency financial support, because you never know, and that alone opened the door for them to request the affidavit. Also, <u>get it notarized</u>!<br />
<br />
Get anything that isn't an official document notarized to make it official, and legal. Also, consider the benefit of getting the FBI background check <a href="http://www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal-considerations/judicial/authentication-of-documents/notarial-and-authentication-apostille.html" target="_blank">apostilled</a> to avoid any complications when you drop off your documents. These aren't indicated as necessary by my Brazilian consulate website, or any others that I read, but again, Brazilian bureaucracy dictates that if the officer wants to make it an issue, they can.<br />
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Lastly, I would like to give a huge shout out to the main resources I used to find information about relocating to Brazil, and in effect, the inspiration for writing this post. The sites <a href="http://braziliangringo.com/" target="_blank">braziliangringo.com</a>, hosted by Josh Plotkin, and <a href="http://liveinbrazil.org/" target="_blank">liveinbrazil.org</a>, hosted by Kevin Porter, are amazing resources and the first sites to consult during planning.<br />
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If you have any questions at all, feel free to email. My address is available on my <a href="http://thecrummylife.blogspot.com.br/p/contact-crum.html" target="_blank">contact</a> page.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bonus! 12 Step Brazilian Visa Success Strategy Guide </span><span style="font-size: large;">Recap</span><br />
1. Ensure your passport will be valid for at least 6 months from your expected arrival date<br />
2. Register with the school<br />
3. Fill out the application on the Brazilian Consulate site<br />
4. Make the appointment to submit your documents to the Brazilian Consulate<br />
5. Print out the requirements list for the visa you want (student visa is VITEM-IV)<br />
6. Get fingerprinted for background check, then send off documents for background check - or use channeller to combine fingerprinting and document sending (higher cost, faster results)<br />
7. Collect all of the documents on the requirements list: proof of financial means, health insurance, etc.<br />
8. Keep everything together in a folder so that nothing gets separated<br />
9. Get the USPS money order for the reciprocity fee<br />
10. Show up at your appointment prepared and ready to be approved<br />
11. Wait the 5 business for your VITEM-IV to be processed<br />
12. Pick up (or receive by mail) your VITEM-IV and get stoked about going to Brazil!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com2Florianópolis - State of Santa Catarina, Brazil-27.5953778 -48.548049900000024-28.045627800000002 -49.193496900000021 -27.1451278 -47.902602900000026tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-75731217070897015132015-09-24T15:09:00.001-03:002015-11-21T00:26:46.559-02:0013 Similarities of Brazil and Thailand One might think that after living in Thailand for three years, living in Brazil must be massively different. Well, not exactly.<br />
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While there are plenty of differences, I have spent the first month here documenting things that I feel are similar between the Land of Smiles and the Land of Samba. Since arriving, I have really felt like Brazil is a great balance of my home culture and my first adopted one.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
With the idea that Thailand prepared me for Brazil, and that the two countries aren't all that different, I am offering my list of thirteen (initial) things I feel are similar about Thailand and Brazil.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCXV7o_FZ8ykIhqeVFpEzY_TIgqwvQS8qMb5r7VZf32l0NhLVIMR5PdGOeL-sWHpp-Do2dW6f6q2mQsvgeGwKSou0ooMHcPvb20ewG5RtD_xPwjIPQQrl3vBVvRs-MvJOT3DnMk3hgNak/s1600/Bus+driver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCXV7o_FZ8ykIhqeVFpEzY_TIgqwvQS8qMb5r7VZf32l0NhLVIMR5PdGOeL-sWHpp-Do2dW6f6q2mQsvgeGwKSou0ooMHcPvb20ewG5RtD_xPwjIPQQrl3vBVvRs-MvJOT3DnMk3hgNak/s200/Bus+driver.jpg" width="158" /></a>1. Bus drivers think that they are formula one drivers, and will whip around corners faster than I would in an all wheel drive car with a low center of gravity. I have witnessed a man get flung across a city bus in Bangkok because the driver was driving so violently. Here in Brazil, there has been a couple of times I've felt that the bus would tip, or I'd be swept of my feet, because of the same bus driver behavior.<br />
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2. Although people in Florianópolis are generally active, it seems there is a fairly low tolerance for walking. I see people doing it, but based on how close bus stops are to each other, either the city I'm in or Brazilians in general have a low tolerance for walking. Thais are also guilty of this. I once went to meet a friend who was about eight blocks away from me. When I got there, he asked why I took so long, then expressed astonishment at my decision to walk. "A bus is only eight baht!" he said. Yeah, that's only 25 cents, but it was only a ten minute walk.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmnsWkAzU_IblAe1xOAnEUtKVyy9Wrqg_Va7YkJrsB3UpgVOavHLwUTISL_czG2NJbD-Gz1JMMjndL7vce2lWCDxQloxUKC-zz5v4K5JQdv4hccUoVV5yi1A6z2uQ7RPFX-4DqVRC9imQ/s1600/IMG_0615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmnsWkAzU_IblAe1xOAnEUtKVyy9Wrqg_Va7YkJrsB3UpgVOavHLwUTISL_czG2NJbD-Gz1JMMjndL7vce2lWCDxQloxUKC-zz5v4K5JQdv4hccUoVV5yi1A6z2uQ7RPFX-4DqVRC9imQ/s320/IMG_0615.JPG" width="320" /></a>3. Both Thais and Brazilians really enjoy extended social situations simply for the sake of talking and being with friends. This is collective aspect of culture that I really love, and when I was studying intercultural communication in university I was eager to experience it. After having done so in Thailand and Brazil, I think collectivism is one of my favorite aspects of culture, easily. I feel that collectivism is a big part of the amazing energy that Josh Plotkin, <a href="http://www.braziliangringo.com/" target="_blank">the Brazilian Gringo</a>, refers to when he describes his adoration for Brazil and its culture.<br />
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4. Cars are small, and are commonly packed with people. I remember when I was up at Nam Dtok Mor Paeng, just outside of Pai, a little Nissan pulled up and at least 8 people poured out. Similarly, here in Floripa, I was walking down the street when an equally small car pulled over to pick up a couple from the sidewalk. When the door opened, I caught a glance inside the car and could see that there were already more bodies than seats in the car before the couple started to climb in.<br />
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5. Houses are fenced in and commonly use broken glass atop the fence to ward off any potential unwelcome guests. It's like cheap barbed wire, and kind of mixed-media modern art piece at the same time. I thought it was really unique when I first noticed it in Thailand, but as I traveled more, I noticed it was in many countries. When my girlfriend came to live with me in Chiang Mai she just shrugged and said, "That's normal. We have a lot of that in Brazil."<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-T4G_iovDviS_nulYVOltFJWPC2VuNQO64duaP6xvjTRRzygtBLqH7OduAup6jxPMlbiutoiVfk3mHNhr411dGgQLeNrP9zeNkDBSeftzWrDCiRAvxR3-Av0p60RbWvZhn5AkOlaZeXg/s1600/Glass+fence.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-T4G_iovDviS_nulYVOltFJWPC2VuNQO64duaP6xvjTRRzygtBLqH7OduAup6jxPMlbiutoiVfk3mHNhr411dGgQLeNrP9zeNkDBSeftzWrDCiRAvxR3-Av0p60RbWvZhn5AkOlaZeXg/s320/Glass+fence.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another example from Peru. Photo: <a href="http://www.thewhereverwriter.com/" target="_blank">The Wherever Writer</a></td></tr>
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6. Pastries commonly have meat in them. Coming from California, pastries were synonymous with fresh fruit throughout my life. So, when I got to Thailand and consistently found meat inside the treats that looked like they should be filled with any type of berry, apple, cherry, or peach, I was a little crushed. Thailand definitely prepared me for the great variety of meat pastries that I've found in Brazil, but I would really like a moist boysenberry danish, please.<br />
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7. People are very clean about eating and drinking, and usually separate skin contact from what they're eating or drinking. Straws come with beverages so the bottle doesn't touch your lips (a little less common in Brazil) and contact with food is avoided by using a napkin or eating straight from the package (a little less common in Thailand).<br />
Also, both countries are equally affectionate toward using utensils to eat foods that Americans would commonly be found eating with their hands, like pizza, or chicken legs and thighs. Furthermore, both countries like to wrap those utensils in cellophane or plastic so you know they are fresh and clean when you receive them.<br />
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8. Since we are on the subject of food, Thailand and Brazil both offer sweets and soft drinks in smaller sizes than the US. I really like this because I have a major sweet tooth, and sometimes I need a fix, but don't want to eat a lot of sugar. Visiting other countries really brought me an awareness of how large American portions are. I'm sure small sweets are available in the States, but I bet they are tucked beneath the larger sized snacks so that it's easier for people to reach for the big ones.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3wMXx_UjpbjT18fkhuRqfjDcb25JvjagyXHNFJR1EyAl5TmaJoOqsEq4L-R9uY1eSSC_eml3P8aI6rqWz-MvaqAlOvLAw7yvttwbE0kj0iTVLbv62K3-OznvYwNfFA71UnIpr1JfP8zY/s1600/Bottled+water.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3wMXx_UjpbjT18fkhuRqfjDcb25JvjagyXHNFJR1EyAl5TmaJoOqsEq4L-R9uY1eSSC_eml3P8aI6rqWz-MvaqAlOvLAw7yvttwbE0kj0iTVLbv62K3-OznvYwNfFA71UnIpr1JfP8zY/s1600/Bottled+water.jpeg" /></a></div>
9. When it comes to drinking water, people say to stay away from tap water in both Brazil and Thailand. I definitely know people who have drank it in both places and never got sick. However, the trend remains that people buy bottled water, especially in restaurants.<br />
In the US, water is generally given to restaurant patrons for free (until the current California drought sparked a new trend there), but in Thailand and Brazil it is purchased in bottles, then everyone shares the bottles to fill their glasses.<br />
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10. Thais and Brazilians build really good social networks in real life (just to be clear that I'm not referring to online). At work, it is really common for people to build a tight, family-like network with their colleagues. I really admire this aspect of the collective group spirit in these two cultures. It is nice to see people socializing in the workplace, because I believe some light-hearted banter helps people get through the day by diverting their attention from stress and pressure that can come from being buried in one's workload.<br />
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11. Do not put the paper in the toilet! Both Thailand and Brazil have plumbing infrastructure that isn't as strong as in the US. Even though toilet paper is designed to break down the longer it stays in water, these more sensitive plumbing systems require that people put tissue in a trash bin near the toilet. Stories about farang and gringos clogging toilets have made in customary for both countries to hang signs in public bathrooms so no one forgets that the tissue goes in the trash bin, not the toilet.<br />
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12. Thailand and Brazil both have a unique term for foreigners. In Thailand I am a <i>farang</i>, and here in Brazil, I am a <i>gringo</i>. For North Americans, the term <i>gringo</i> is fairly well known, but is generally perceived to have a negative connotation. Often times, the word <i>gringo</i> carries no negative meaning in Brazil, and is used in a humorous way among friends. However, simply because Thailand has less global influence, <i>farang</i> is a lesser known word. For further information on the word <i>farang</i>, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Farang" target="_blank">click here</a>.<br />
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13. Lastly, my favorite, is the fact that Thais and Brazilians are incredibly welcoming and accommodating to gringos and farang, and will go far beyond your expectation when they offer you help. Furthermore, they have a spirited excitement and adoration for any foreigner that speaks their language, even at a basic level.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48M9adJGVWCt3PG-1c_Em38tCzC2WrzDXfI4vp0WQ6JuCz6PdLqOzSlM2Zd_7Thnfgt6GgKtnKUc0pmihhdre939ZeCqiGbGhiYqhnYC1bjMj4PMWC2Y0NdZVe-izSRVz2e-8bj8Toz4/s1600/Leo%2526Mari%2527s.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48M9adJGVWCt3PG-1c_Em38tCzC2WrzDXfI4vp0WQ6JuCz6PdLqOzSlM2Zd_7Thnfgt6GgKtnKUc0pmihhdre939ZeCqiGbGhiYqhnYC1bjMj4PMWC2Y0NdZVe-izSRVz2e-8bj8Toz4/s1600/Leo%2526Mari%2527s.png" /></a></div>
Although one month is not very much time, these are the things that stuck out to me. Obviously a few of my observations reflect the more collective nature of these two cultures, especially because I admire this dynamic so much. I am eager to experience all that Brazil has to offer during my time here, whether they be similarities and differences.<br />
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Do you have any interesting stories about similarities or differences you experienced in another country? Let me know in the comments below, or go to my <a href="http://thecrummylife.blogspot.com.br/p/contact-crum.html" target="_blank">contact</a> page and send me an email. I look forward to hearing your story!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com6Florianópolis - State of Santa Catarina, Brazil-27.5953778 -48.548049900000024-28.045627800000002 -49.193496900000021 -27.1451278 -47.902602900000026tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-1019281307830162672015-09-11T14:25:00.001-03:002015-11-10T00:55:54.183-02:00CELTA Revealed: Program Design Insight to Bring You Success<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Updated: some information about the success rates, Input Sessions, Teaching Practice, and Assignments have been updated to reflect feedback I received from a current CELTA trainer. Her insight is a benefit to all readers and prospective CELTA trainees.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you are interested in teaching English as a foreign language (EFL), you've probably already begun looking into the options for your certification. Now you are thinking about all of the which of them to choose. Two questions are likely floating around in your head.</span><br />
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"What is the difference between a TEFL, TESOL, and CELTA (among others)?" and "Which one of them should I choose?"</span><br />
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Many travellers and prospective teachers choose a TEFL because it qualifies you for many teaching jobs, is less intensive, and is commonly cheaper. The other options are more expensive, depending on where you are in the world, and are known for being more intensive (we'll come back to this description soon).</span><br />
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For example, some TEFL certifications may be completed solely online. CELTA is impossible, from what I have experienced and read, to be completed solely online. There are combo packages, in which some Input Sessions are online, but you MUST do Teaching Practice in person to be evaluated by qualified trainers.</span><br />
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A little Internet research will show you that TESOL and CELTA are more intensive courses, they hold more international credibility, and are certainly more expensive. So, why might one choose to do one of the intensive qualifications? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">That's the question I seek to help you answer with the following.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">All details will speak of my personal experience in CELTA training, and is supplemented with information from friends that have done TESOL and TEFL.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Above all, I sincerely hope to offer some insight and clarity to those of you who have questions about CELTA and the "intensivity" that is commonly described of the course.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We did it, and so can you!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Reputation</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">No matter where or how you heard about CELTA, or whether the description was basic or detailed, I <b>KNOW</b> that you were told it's "intensive." That's why you are here, looking for supplemental information, right? You want to ease the uncertainty of what people mean when they say "intensive."</span><br />
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CELTA is, no doubt, an rigorous course that will elevate you (as far as certificates go, to separate us from post-graduate qualified professionals) to the upper echelon of qualified EFL teachers. <u>CELTA is always recognized as the gold standard in EFL teaching certificates</u>.</span><br />
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For example, when you see a job ad for a good position, it'll likely say, "CELTA, TESOL, or equivalent." Make no mistake, TEFL is not the equivalent to CELTA, but in some locations is perfectly acceptable. </span><br />
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So, let's get to it. What are you getting yourself into?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Applying and Interviewing</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">First, quite obviously, you must apply to the program. Part of that process involves some language identification exercises, like what verb tense a specific sentence uses, how can you explain the difference between two similar words (for example, thin and skinny), and more. You submit the application and the task, then they will contact you to schedule the interview.</span><br />
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During the interview, you will also be asked to answer some questions from your pre-interview task submission. A trainer will ask you about particular answers that you submitted. Questions like, <i>Why did you answer number X with that specific response?</i></span><br />
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At some point during the interview, you will be told that 10% of trainees fail, 65% of trainees earn a Pass grade, 20-25% will earn a Pass B, and a very talented and hardworking 5% will earn the coveted Pass A. These numbers are averages based on global results, so do not think they are quotas that must be filled.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Also note that the grade is not important when finding a job, because having a CELTA shows that you are an effective teacher. As described by one of my trainers, having a B or A just tells employers that you are a little faster at learning and executing methodology.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>The CELTA course</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u>Input Sessions (IS)</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A more direct title to describe these are the "classes" of the training program.</span><br />
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IS are going to offer all of the information about how to conduct Teaching Practice (explained next). They are filled with information about delivering the content that you need to teach, tactics about how to lead students to find answers without just giving them away, creating meaning and understanding for the learner, and maintaining planned time. Among other things, IS also provides information about phonology, designing and administering tests, issues with literacy, and how to incorporate authentic materials, like music and other media, to your lessons.</span><br />
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IS should not be missed, taken very seriously, and be seen as an opportunity to not only gain the necessary helpful information. The sessions are also to observe the way the trainers teach you that information, because they will, no doubt, do their best to teach you the methods by using the methods that you should replicate.</span><br />
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A note, remember that trainers have been certified by Cambridge (the CELTA governing body) to conduct IS. The way they offer the information in IS is surely approved by Cambridge, and done so to offer an example of an effective way for you to teach.</span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Teaching Practice (TP)</span></u></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUhXU2C55SWf7YJ6kKO4sdl4prSwfzJ1iT4uY3dTrPGhmsVGpa_YBl_Yv1R6n8BnBIGq53f_LYVO_DFMb7YVE50yeK9nIyIiD7PAnJThHU8xDaJ4pJblogmI9YQ81cLAOm1ysRLRRIqUU/s1600/BettyTP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUhXU2C55SWf7YJ6kKO4sdl4prSwfzJ1iT4uY3dTrPGhmsVGpa_YBl_Yv1R6n8BnBIGq53f_LYVO_DFMb7YVE50yeK9nIyIiD7PAnJThHU8xDaJ4pJblogmI9YQ81cLAOm1ysRLRRIqUU/s320/BettyTP.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Betty in action in a TP session</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is by far the most feared part of the CELTA, largely due to the reputation that the program has. Myself, and a few others in my cohort, were lucky enough to have some teaching experience prior to the program. Others weren't so lucky.</span><br />
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At least three people abandoned their first lesson due to fear, anxiety, and under preparedness. Of those three, two did not finish the program. I am not mentioning this as a scare tactic, because it is truly my belief that the program is only as difficult as you make it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
In TP, as expected, you will be at the front of a class offering lessons to non-native speakers. There will be a total of at least 6 hours of TP arranged however your program sees fit. Mine was eight 45 minute classes. You will teach two distinct learner ability levels so that you are afforded a range of contexts to produce and deliver lessons. </span><br />
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Aspects of the lessons are arranged by skill, receptive/input (listening and reading) and productive/output (speaking and writing). Also, you will have to incorporate functional language, which refer to phrases and collocations that help learners gain a functional use of English. Furthermore, you will deliver vocabulary and grammar lessons.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The content is broken down further than that, and, in <b><u>week one</u></b>, the trainees are guided through the content so that the lessons are basically set up for you. You apply the course book material to the provided outline of a particular learner level and lesson type. You just have to bring it to life and lead the class through it.</span><br />
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In <b><u>week two</u></b>, the reins are loosened a little, and you are expected to show more independence in planning the lesson. In <b><u>week three</u></b>, you will be told what type of lesson to teach, but will have to design the lesson yourself. Finally, in <b><u>week four</u></b>, they set you free, and all trainees have to choose what type of lesson they will teach (based on the necessity of lesson types you need to teach to balance the variety of lessons you've taught) then plan the lesson from scratch.</span><br />
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Also, at the end of each TP, you will need to complete a self evaluation form. This is to indicate self awareness to the trainers regarding what you feel you are doing well and what you need to work on.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have one final note on TP, for people who have teaching experience. It is nice to have some confidence in front of the classroom, but don't be set in your ways. Use the strategies and techniques that are offered in IS and work to implement them as effectively as possible. You are already ahead of the curve because you've taught, don't be the person who struggles because you can't hone your craft.</span></div>
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<b><u>
Observations</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The name here is as direct as it gets. First, you will observe your trainer, then you will observe other trainees and they will observe you. It is important to pay close attention to your trainers and fellow trainees during observations. When observing trainers, the reason should be obvious, as they are the certified professionals, and are offering you an example of effective lesson delivery.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
However, it is equally important to give your fellow trainees your attention, because, as you will be taught to understand, making mistakes is an inherent part of the learning process, so receiving and offering constructive criticism is going to improve the outcome for everyone in your trainee group. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Your peers group should be 4-6 people, depending on your group size, which</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> means you will be getting plenty of peer feedback about your successes, as well as some shortcomings. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I found much value in this process because it allows trainees to engage what they have been learning in input sessions to the teaching practice even when they aren't in the front of the class. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Also, the trainer is observing you, so you also get the praise and critique of a certified professional.</span><br />
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<b><u>Feedback Sessions</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is when you get the opportunity to offer and receive the praise and critiques to and from your peers and trainers.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
This is especially important to document because part of your culminating assignment (assignment four, discussed in the next section) will be to evaluate yourself based on the critiques of your trainers and peers.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />It is possible to refer to the trainer's notes on your feedback sheets and talk your peers that observed your TP when it's time to do the assignment. However, it is much more efficient to track that information in the meantime in order to simplify assignment four, trust me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For example, I wrote the most valuable feedback, and </span>recurring<span style="font-family: inherit;"> critiques in my notebook that I used for my CELTA notes. I wrote who said it and which TP number it referred to so I was clear about progress and pitfalls. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">When it came time to do assignment four, I was well prepared and didn't need to waste time talking to peers about observations that had already been crammed into the shadows of an </span>overcrowded<span style="font-family: inherit;"> brain.</span><br />
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<b><u>Assignments</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The final component worth discussing is the assignments, of which you will have four. Again, the trainers leave you well prepared and offer plenty of examples to get you through it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
For me, <u>assignment one</u> was a struggle because it not only involves analyzing language in a way that very few ever have before, but it also requires you to cite published (preferably by Cambridge) references that indicate the way you have evaluated the various aspects of language are correct.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
The three components of assignment one are a lexis analysis, grammar analysis, and functions analysis (functions refers to common collocations that learners can use to actively use language like a native does). If you want more details about those analysis sections, shoot me an email.</span><br />
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<u>Assignment two</u> is pretty much an exercise in profiling learners. This requires you to investigate</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">the learners' backgrounds, recognizing their ability, qualifying your assessment of their ability based on their strengths and weaknesses (lexical, grammar and pronunciation), and how you are going to approach improving the weaknesses.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
<u>Assignment three</u> is a task focused on language skills that requires you to evaluate a written text, express why it a good text for learners, which level of language learner it would be good for, qualify that assessment, then develop a lesson appropriate for the learner level you have indicated to be a match for the text.</span><br />
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<u>Assignment four</u> is a complete evaluation of yourself and the course. It demands that you recognize and analyze your ability to teach your planned content effectively, self recognize any shortcomings, and asses the implications of your room for improvement.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
Assignment four ends with an description of what you expect to do professionally with your certification and how you can continue to pursue teaching English to speakers of other languages professionally, whether you honestly feel the way you describe or not.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It is entirely possible that the order of </span>assignments<span style="font-family: inherit;"> one and two, as described above, are different depending on the center you do the program with.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Post Course</u></b></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
If you come out the other side alive (an exaggeration, of course), your provisional grade will be sent to you within a few weeks. Your official grade from Cambridge and your certificate will come in around six to eight weeks from your date of completion.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
That's it! I know it's a lot of information, but it's all here to help ease the uncertainty of what to expect, and increase the clarity of the ambiguous (and daunting) descriptions that currently exist online.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
If you made it to the end of this post, you surely have enough stamina to make it through a CELTA! Be aware that a CELTA is truly an intensive process, but if you have determination, you can surely complete it. If you think you would like a more relaxed training experience, I recommend that you choose to do a TEFL. However, some people also find TEFL training to be a difficult process.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
Feel free to ask questions or tell me if you found this post helpful or not in the comments section, or go to the <a href="http://thecrummylife.blogspot.com.br/p/contact-crum.html" target="_blank">contact</a> page to email me directly. Also, if you know anyone else who find this information useful, please click one of the share buttons below to make sure they get their eyes on it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Lastly, if any of you are thinking of doing your CELTA in Chiang Mai, Thailand, definitely email with any questions you have about the city, areas that are good to find an apartment/studio, or any further questions.</span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com7Florianópolis - State of Santa Catarina, Brazil-27.606279300993823 -48.526611328125-27.662567300993821 -48.607292328125 -27.549991300993824 -48.445930328125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-46478368413321063502015-08-31T15:13:00.001-03:002015-10-08T16:11:47.159-03:00Long Distance Relationship Tips to Bring You SuccessNo matter who you are, being in a long distance relationship (LDR) is another level of commitment. If you have doubts about the relationship you are in, an LDR probably isn't for you.<br />
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I don't mean small, general insecurities about the future. Specifically, I am referring to the possibility that you have ideas about the person not being "the one" for you. This is very important, because who wants to commit time and energy to an LDR that isn't founded on mutual long-term intentions? Really, that's a bit masochistic.<br />
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The following can be used to help bring success to any LDR, whether you are a couple hours drive, across a country, or on opposite sides of the globe. To be upfront, my experience is with an international LDR, and during the course of this relationship we have endured across ten time zones, from Thailand to Brazil.<br />
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The most important thing to focus on is effectively doing things that create the feeling of minimized distance. These efforts need to create an experience as similar to being together as possible.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmwXIkE98Q3IVkkO49RjKNcdd2Fz8OmEMGwmno9YcXEi9f3qUkxWbsZyTfvRbPxtsOrzrAVJ6AGUwcX375CAANfm9p3_u1DWrfGWoEM162wfIO-fU8RAN6hIKMaVmlbFv1feQ-Y6IOy0/s1600/LDR1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmwXIkE98Q3IVkkO49RjKNcdd2Fz8OmEMGwmno9YcXEi9f3qUkxWbsZyTfvRbPxtsOrzrAVJ6AGUwcX375CAANfm9p3_u1DWrfGWoEM162wfIO-fU8RAN6hIKMaVmlbFv1feQ-Y6IOy0/s320/LDR1.jpeg" width="320" /></a>One thing that my girlfriend and I did was watch movies together, which is a really common way to share time in a relationship. Modern technology and increasing internet speeds have brought a really fun and authentic experience to having a movie date with your partner, even when you are apart.<br />
<br />
We would use Skype screen share while playing a movie, then turn up the volume so the microphone would pick up the audio for the person who isn't hosting the film.<br />
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Obviously this isn't as good as curling up with your lover on the couch, but since you can do this on a tablet or laptop, there is no reason why you can't find a comfy spot and feel a little more like you are. Also, Skype still allows you to see the other person, as long as you have video enabled, so you can see their reactions during the film, and chat along the way (if talking during movies is your thing).<br />
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The next thing we found really helpful is to send letters and postcards when you go to a different city, even when the city isn't far from where you live. It feels really good to get something tangible that indicates your partner is thinking about you, and put in time and energy to be thoughtful.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0J1mCH6lb8KfQfT2BitF8EyN3Lo6av_v3HOQezn8cjxJp-FPvlVCKcef4F6UpdcRJ2TSIF6d8inV034MosswT7v9WMSPKJGCHp2j73DKiMVbvMNmp4wdHVptBblntWqOehEI8enbyp9I/s1600/Postcards2Scaff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0J1mCH6lb8KfQfT2BitF8EyN3Lo6av_v3HOQezn8cjxJp-FPvlVCKcef4F6UpdcRJ2TSIF6d8inV034MosswT7v9WMSPKJGCHp2j73DKiMVbvMNmp4wdHVptBblntWqOehEI8enbyp9I/s320/Postcards2Scaff.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Postcards I sent to Luísa while we were apart</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When I was in Thailand, and would take little trips around the region, I would send postcards and describe what I was doing and describe things she would like and explain how much her presence would enhance the experience. She still refers to this as one of the most valuable things that let her know I had her on my mind and heart. After I came back to California, I continued this practice when I went around the state.<br />
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Obviously, communication is paramount in an LDR, so share your experiences and keep the person in the loop about the things you are doing, especially nights out. Take photos and send them with WhatsApp, LINE messenger, or even an email. Anyone in a LDR can tell you that a plethora of insecurities can blossom from a lack of communication when your partner is out drinking.<br />
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A selfie at the bar with some friends hardly takes time at all, and can offer some solace to your partner, as long as it isn't offering a reason for their imagination to run wild.<br />
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Another expression of commitment, and great way to spend time together when you are apart, is a virtual date nights. These are commonly referred to as Skype dates, but they don't always have to be a video chat. Just setting aside time when you will sit in private without distractions and talk on the phone (international relationships should consider Viber or MagicJack) shows your partner you want to spend time with them, and are willing to make time in your schedule that is only for the two of you. It tells your partner, "Having you in my routine is important."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0W8KMr5p3Abz3ogESNo-DNJRt-7LdG5gkB89lBH-cHe2pZ7MOPvtLbE5i5EPXkJPNyeM8-a2DlD24I44B_IaMWJBB4OjMQoLsxaQsWY8LCG3POmrWVOmgixEo7j0tu2fTYoXkJWSo2Bs/s1600/LDR2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0W8KMr5p3Abz3ogESNo-DNJRt-7LdG5gkB89lBH-cHe2pZ7MOPvtLbE5i5EPXkJPNyeM8-a2DlD24I44B_IaMWJBB4OjMQoLsxaQsWY8LCG3POmrWVOmgixEo7j0tu2fTYoXkJWSo2Bs/s1600/LDR2.jpeg" /></a>It is important to tell the other that stuff would be better with them by your side. Extinguish the insecurity of what could be happening in the place where your partner isn't by indicating how strongly you feel that the experiences are much more enjoyable when they are there.<br />
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Another extremely important element to an LDR is the expiration date for the distance. This is of utmost importance for anyone in international LDRs.<br />
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Even if you don't have a ticket to fly to your lover, have a general estimation of date, week, or month for the end of the separation so that the two of you may focus on the light at the end of the tunnel.<br />
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Lastly, make plans about things you can do once you are together again. Even if it is something that you did without your partner, but you really enjoyed it, express your desire for sharing that experience with them and observing their joy the same way that you felt it when you did it without them.<br />
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Aside from these great tips, which helped us succeed, there is is heaps more you can do. For example, content sharing, like articles and goofy stuff you know your partner will enjoy, is a great way to enhance your LDR.<br />
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If you have any questions about LDRs, have some helpful tips that brought/is bringing you success in your LDR which aren't included above, or any other positive message about bringing success to LDRs, leave a comment below.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com2Florianópolis - State of Santa Catarina, Brazil-27.600802908597011 -48.506698608398381-27.657087408597011 -48.587379608398379 -27.544518408597011 -48.426017608398382tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-78339621526994918082015-08-19T12:34:00.002-03:002015-11-20T23:35:46.133-02:00A Name of Sorts: The Crummy Life ExposedSometimes people, usually non-native English speakers, ask me, "Jairet, why did you name your blog 'The Crummy Life'?"<br />
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I think it's a good, and valid question. For example, consider the following:<br />
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Why would someone want to market themselves under a name that implies inferior quality?<br />
Are you trying to give the impression that the standard of the writing, information, products, services, etc. are of low caliber?<br />
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The answer to both questions are, most certainly, no.<br />
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As I mentioned before in a <a href="http://thecrummylife.blogspot.com.br/2015/04/pun-by-pun-chiang-mais-best-business.html" target="_blank">previous post</a>, part of it comes from my last name, and how it has influenced my appreciation for puns. On the other hand it is rooted in a sarcastic analogy about the endurance of the "hardships" of the travelling lifestyle.<br />
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I put the quotations on hardships because they really are nothing more than temporary frustrations that, in time, we learn to deal with.<br />
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<i>The Crummy Life,</i> as a name, plays on the notion that adapting to new lands, languages and cultures isn't easy. It teases at the idea that there are inherent struggles involved with the travel lifestyle, and it mocks the belief that those frustrations would keep me firmly planted in my home country. That is, until I am at my wit's end with my routine and take a week or so off to go to a nearby tropical beach, where I can stay in a resort with staff that speaks English and attends to my Western desires and needs for comfort.<br />
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I understand that may come off as arrogant to some that thoroughly enjoy their life at home. However, everyone is different, and difference is not bad. It's just different.<br />
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So, the most direct answer I can give for why I chose this name is that I love every part of my transience, and I like to juxtapose the notion of hardships because they are commonly the seed of growth.<br />
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I bask in the insecurities of struggling to put a sentence together in a new language. My heart's content drinking cheap lager and sleeping on a firm mattress with a mosquito net in a room smaller than many middle class western kitchens (because together, the two are less than USD $10). My smiles blossom at the opportunity to cross borders, national and cultural, to create long lasting friendships, while opening and expanding my worldview.<br />
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I wish I could offer this explanation to everyone that asks me the question, and someday I will be able to (because I am continuing to elevate my language learning goals). For now, though, I'll keep telling people, "It's funny, and I'm crazy about making people laugh."Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-73775658790479751372015-08-18T09:41:00.001-03:002015-10-08T16:13:14.374-03:00Quick Language Learning Tip: italki notebook entries and community supported learningI have written about <a href="http://italki.com/">italki.com</a> in a few posts, describing what a great asset the site is to language learners. For this quick language learning tip, I want to talk about one thing I really like about italki, notebook entries and community supported learning.<br />
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Of course people love italki because the site pairs learners with native speaking teachers, but there is also a notebook section where you can practice writing in your target language. The best part is that your notebook entries are public. This allows the community of language learners to see your writing and correct mistakes and suggest better, or more native style ways to express your ideas.<br />
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At first it may be strange to some because our egos don't want to be told we are making mistakes, or that our attempts are wrong. In time, however, we must recognize the importance of making mistakes. <a href="http://www.fluentin3months.com/make-mistakes/" target="_blank">Making mistakes really is the path to improvement!</a> What better way to improve your writing than having native speakers support you with corrections and suggestions?<br />
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Click on the link to my notebook entry, <a href="http://www.italki.com/entry/594094#.VdMhffQCc-M.blogger">Quem está em Floripa? Eu estou!</a>, and check out what the notebook section looks like, then navigate through the site a bit. If you like what you see, sign up and create your own profile so you can start benefitting from the tools and resources that italki has created to help us all improve our skills!<br />
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Once you are a member, find me by searching my name, then add me as a friend.<br />
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Até mais!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-62248575019585936272015-08-17T10:55:00.000-03:002015-10-08T16:13:41.175-03:00International Driving Permit and Inter-American Driving PermitIt's pretty normal for people to want to prepare for the unexpected events that inevitably come up in our future, especially for us westerners. In the case of moving abroad, that means it is important to have a plan for health insurance, bank accounts and money management, emergency contacts at home, and legality of driving.<br />
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What follows is a simple explanation of how to cover your butt so you don't have any troubles while driving abroad. For many people, a standard driver's license is likely accepted overseas, but don't expect it.<br />
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Depending on the country you are in, and the official that you deal with, you may find that a traffic stop can have a great variety of outcomes.<br />
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To ensure you are legal, do yourself a favor and get an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you depart. The IDP ensures that you may drive legally as a non-resident, according to the United Nations Convention on International Road Traffic.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbul4cvwcgvEQHXA_nKuyuEgp7SZLvMJTU0e2eY9WSAWDOixVyJdjHs_17EuiOP0ZHxMVmJ7oTWnI4nbZ7hWY6Ykrc-9AqTBbj8wd11eIuYLteQm5vPX5DuEzBS-w_UyuqeQsZ6LnDXlY/s1600/IDP1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbul4cvwcgvEQHXA_nKuyuEgp7SZLvMJTU0e2eY9WSAWDOixVyJdjHs_17EuiOP0ZHxMVmJ7oTWnI4nbZ7hWY6Ykrc-9AqTBbj8wd11eIuYLteQm5vPX5DuEzBS-w_UyuqeQsZ6LnDXlY/s320/IDP1.jpg" width="230" /></a></div>
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An IDP is a lovely safety net when you are in a place where you might not speak the language because it has all of the particulars regarding your driving allowances in English, Arabic, Russian, Chinese, Portuguese, Japanese, Italian, German, Spanish, Swedish and French.<br />
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Here is a sample that shows the Arabic and Russian pages:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2K0NiGzPyG2uWO-OoOIsh-P2mAhc2V4GcZXOyrrIlyGnJEXTwakB0YwAaxIwwADH_MPCP3OPWFNtVo2XZNG6jADhtTZlaMpSZXd2ZSv411yBl5zxcwZ9mky0k0npyTWlzjKof9udluvI/s1600/IDP3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2K0NiGzPyG2uWO-OoOIsh-P2mAhc2V4GcZXOyrrIlyGnJEXTwakB0YwAaxIwwADH_MPCP3OPWFNtVo2XZNG6jADhtTZlaMpSZXd2ZSv411yBl5zxcwZ9mky0k0npyTWlzjKof9udluvI/s320/IDP3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Having an IDP allows you to legally drive a car or motorcycle for up to 6 months, even if your state license doesn't include motorcycle driving.<br />
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To get an IDP, you really only need four things:<br />
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<ul>
<li>A complete IDP application</li>
<li>$15 (I suggest USPS money order if submitting by mail)</li>
<li>2 recent passport style photos (signed on the back)</li>
<li>A valid state DL (copy of front and back if submitting by mail)</li>
</ul>
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That's it! No test, no hassle, no problem.<br />
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You can get you IDP by mail or in person, so it is really easy and totally convenient.<br />
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-size: large;">The Process</span><br />
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Check to see where the closest AAA branch is near you, because it is incredibly easy if you have the time to go to a branch. The branches accept all types of payments and will give you your IDP on the spot.<br />
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If you need to mail it in, it just requires a little bit more effort on your part (which you'll see listed below).<br />
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At a branch:<br />
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<ul>
<li>fill out the <a href="https://www.aaa.com/vacation/idpapplc.html">application online</a> and print it out</li>
<li>be ready to pay $15 (cash, card, money order, or check)</li>
<li>get 2 passport type photos (do not try to print off your own, they will likely get rejected)</li>
<li>take your state DL with you</li>
</ul>
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By mail:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>fill out the <a href="https://www.aaa.com/vacation/idpapplc.html">application online</a> and print it out</li>
<li>get a USPS money order, or write a check for $15</li>
<li>get 2 passport type photos (do not try to print off your own, they will likely get rejected)</li>
<li>copy both sides of your state DL</li>
<li>self address an envelope <b><u>with postage</u> </b>so that they can send you your IDP</li>
<li>put everything in an envelope that won't fold any pages</li>
<li>send it off with a smile (and plenty of time before you depart on your trip)</li>
</ul>
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That's it. Really. Now, check out how many countries accept the IDP as legal driving qualification:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrX5lvb0MsdXvwKmKZy-8xIx4_icREEcmMjP2pxUV1cWqp3RKakRcQa870OQ_NuQjl13rkVjp9T5W80biGuQR8UwnT4TFpbud-a28IIotw1uMo8Oa4m7xirKlz16xn89TbybYwW_ypNA/s1600/IDP2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrX5lvb0MsdXvwKmKZy-8xIx4_icREEcmMjP2pxUV1cWqp3RKakRcQa870OQ_NuQjl13rkVjp9T5W80biGuQR8UwnT4TFpbud-a28IIotw1uMo8Oa4m7xirKlz16xn89TbybYwW_ypNA/s320/IDP2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I think someone out there might have the question, "What about the Inter-American Driving Permit?"</div>
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Thank you for asking! I had the same question when I noticed that this option is for Central and South American countries, since my destination was Brazil. </div>
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The IADP is the exact same application, price and process. The only difference is the box that you check on the application. In the end, you actually end up getting the same book as the IDP. Seriously!<br />
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If someone out there can offer some insight into why they go by different names, let me know! I am still curious.<br />
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Happy driving, travellers!<br />
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<i>This post is based on my personal experience with the process in the US, and supplemental information that I found online. Links to that information are included.</i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-90739289216483173982015-07-20T13:32:00.003-03:002015-10-08T16:14:01.133-03:00How to Successfully Complete an italki Language ChallengeI was facing twenty eight days to finish twelve hours of language classes. I knew I could do it because I had already been studying daily alone and was starting feel that I needed guidance.<br />
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Last month's challenge started with a public pledge, and a dose of determination that came from failing the January language challenge. [insert lame excuse here]<br />
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After I registered for the challenge, italki recommends making a video pledge to show your commitment to your goal and share it with the community of language learners.<br />
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Making a public video pledge was simple, easy, and fun! I recorded it on my phone then uploaded it according to the directions italki provides. Immediately, I was getting feedback from native speakers and challenge participants.<br />
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This was exactly what I wanted! I was connecting with native speakers that corrected my mistakes and gave me lots of encouragement. This provided more motivation and accountability for achieving my goal.<br />
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So, what did I do complete the challenge? I am going to offer a breakdown of my strategy so that you might benefit from it, and potentially use bits, pieces, or all of it to get going strong and finish successfully.<br />
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If you don't already have a steady italki teacher, start by taking a few classes with different teachers. In my first week, I took three classes, each with a different teacher, so that I got to know them, their methods, and how well they would benefit me as a learner.<br />
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The bonus is that those three hours counted toward my total, so I started completing the challenge just by finding a teacher!<br />
<br />
You can do 30 minute trial sessions, or just go for the full hour. Either way, the time all counts toward your completed challenge hours.<br />
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After you know who you want to study with, buy one of their session packages to save a little bit of money on the price of lessons. This also locks in those hours so you can schedule sessions with the teacher at your convenience without going through payment every time.<br />
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Look at the month and see what is going to be best for your schedule. Italki automatically adjusts the teachers availability schedule to your time zone, so you don't have to think about time differences.<br />
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Schedule more classes in the beginning to get you going.<br />
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Anyone who has started a new project or tried to develop a new habit knows that you start strong and taper off, losing steam as it seems to get harder and harder to muster up the motivation to do that thing that had you were so inspired to do only a short time ago.<br />
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If you front load your sessions, you can taper off and still complete the challenge. Best case scenario, you don't taper off and you CRUSH the challenge and improve even faster!<br />
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Note: consider trips, outings and vacations that could impede your progress. I had a week long trip in Tahoe planned for the end of June so I stepped my goal up to finish before that to alleviate the obligation to be in a lesson when I wanted to hang at the beach<br />
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Lastly, don't miss a class! You won't get a refund, so set reminders or whatever you have to do to ensure you are online when class time rolls around.<br />
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If you follow these simple steps, I guarantee you will be successful with your challenge goal.<br />
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Now, go to <a href="http://www.italki.com/">italki's website</a> and register, if you aren't a member. You can start meeting other native speakers, search teachers and have trials, and learn how the website functions before the next challenge comes around.<br />
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What are you waiting for? Go learn a language!<br />
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Comment below with any questions, or go to the contact page and send me an email.<br />
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Até mais! (See ya later)<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-41616434977180131492015-06-16T13:50:00.002-03:002015-10-08T16:14:33.809-03:00June italki Language Challenge Update: Brazilian Portuguese<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Olá! Tudo bem?<br />
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This month I am participating in the June italki Language Challenge. Maybe you saw my <a href="http://thecrummylife.blogspot.com/2015/06/june-italki-language-challenge-public.html" target="_blank">first post with my public pledge video</a>, where I said what I aim to accomplish and used a bit of português brasileiro. What did you think?<br />
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Well it is time for an update, because week three has just begun. With my birthday in week one, and being in a wedding in week two, life has been packed <a href="http://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/british/to-the-gills" target="_blank">to the gills</a> with action and excitement.<br />
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I originally set the goal of taking three classes per week so that I could easily expect to meet the challenge of completing twelve total hours in June. Then, my family gave me the dates for our annual trip to Lake Tahoe, June 22nd - 29th!<br />
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Luckily this happened in week one.<br />
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I made the decision to <a href="http://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/british/up-the-ante" target="_blank">up the ante</a> to finish the challenge a week early so that I don't have to finish the challenge while on vacation, just to take away the need to be in front of a computer while I want to be on the lake, on a hike, or rock climbing with my wild man father.<br />
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In week one, I completed three sessions. In week two, I completed four more sessions. Now we are in week three, and I have completed one more lesson. Also, I have four more scheduled before the family fills up the cars on the 22nd.<br />
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That means I have completed eight, and I have sessions nine through twelve scheduled already! I am on track to complete the challenge on June 21st, over one week early.<br />
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That's all for now. If you have more interest in what italki is all about, check out <a href="http://thecrummylife.blogspot.com/2015/04/crummys-top-5-language-learning-tools.html" target="_blank">my previous post</a> or head to <a href="http://blog.italki.com/about/" target="_blank">the italki website</a> for details.<br />
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Muito obrigado por ter vindo. Até mais!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3178369054913985538.post-22301707986616008892015-06-08T13:28:00.001-03:002015-10-08T16:15:59.742-03:005 Important Phrases to Learn When Traveling<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image © <a href="http://graphicleftovers.com/" target="_blank">GL Stock Images</a></td></tr>
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When we travel, we don't usually make a decision and then leave immediately. Most of us plan trips well in advance. We make an itinerary that tentatively outlines what we will do during our time away. So, why not make part of the planning process the native lingo?<br />
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It is important to show host country people that we have come to their country with more than just the intent to enjoy the sights. While we we have come to soak up the country's splendor, it shows an extra appreciation and effort if we learn some of the host country's language, too.<br />
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A friend of mine recently visited Thailand just before I returned to the States, and she impressed me greatly by immediately trying to use Thai to say hello and thank you. I noticed that the Thais she said this to were impressed no matter how awful her pronunciation was!<br />
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The following list offers you the most important words and phrases to know before you depart, and there is one bonus at the end for vegetarians.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hello/Goodbye.</span><br />
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Definitely the most obvious on this list, but one that I have recognized over and over again as being ignored by travelers. Don't let the linguistic differences hold you back! Show the host country's people your extra effort with these two simple words.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Please/Thank You.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJdwzsnHLkdZJhuaoglkbC7SD3pGillhBVLjfDkLgLtOLObQEARqsJ9paEZJ5TFVmJhDdhj2nWd8172_EDW8CyQNN-ZZNEAbNDfHjYS_rYLlwxvBs5J_H9L1lEoXL984yvCZxzEaJINxM/s1600/Thanks+Languages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="115" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJdwzsnHLkdZJhuaoglkbC7SD3pGillhBVLjfDkLgLtOLObQEARqsJ9paEZJ5TFVmJhDdhj2nWd8172_EDW8CyQNN-ZZNEAbNDfHjYS_rYLlwxvBs5J_H9L1lEoXL984yvCZxzEaJINxM/s200/Thanks+Languages.jpg" width="200" /></a>I had a great experience during a layover in South Korea. I arrived at the airport with ten hours to burn, so I decided to do one of the free day tours. I pulled up a list of Korean phrases and only memorized how to say a couple things. Saying thank you got me smiles and giggles from everyone I said it to.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nice to meet you.</span><br />
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I was preparing to move to Thailand when I met visitors from Thailand in Sacramento, and I thought it would be great to memorize this phrase. It was a great decision! The people I met loved it, and once I was in Thailand I used the phrase right from the start. People always had a gracious reaction to my saying this in Thai, especially if they were English speakers.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Where is the bathroom?</span><br />
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When nature is calling, don't get lost in translation trying to ask where you can relieve yourself. It is much more embarrassing to have to cross your legs and point to your crotch then it is to have poor pronunciation when asking where to find a toilet.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">How much?</span><br />
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You may think that it isn't a good idea if you don't know numbers, but it is received better than holding up an item and politely smiling so the seller recognizes implied interest. Have your phone in hand with the calculator open, or step up the challenge and learn numbers, too.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Vegetarian Bonus: No meat.</span><br />
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You could step this up by learning the words for different meats and the word for vegetarian, but the simplest way is to just learn "No meat." Another tip for vegetarians abroad is to stay away from soup, as broth is likely to be made with meat even if it's a veggie soup. Other than that, remain flexible.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarah and Pae embrace communication success</td></tr>
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Of course there are the situations when people travel through more than one country, and each has a different language. For example, many backpackers in Southeast Asia travel through Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos and Thailand. While Thai and Lao are similar, Vietnamese and Khmer are very different, from each other and the other two.<br />
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In this situation one may think there is no point to learn because many people involved in tourism can communicate in English and it's not worth the trouble. That is a bad attitude! Trust me, even when you pronounce things terrible, the hosts that receive you will be impressed at your effort.<br />
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Next time you are making travel plans, find these words and phrases in the language of your destination on the <a href="http://www.omniglot.com/language/phrases/" target="_blank">Omniglot phrases page</a> and practice them before you depart and on the plane. If you are going with a friend or spouse, make a game out of it and quiz each other.<br />
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Leave a comment below about your experience, good or bad, using another language abroad. If you have a trip planned, tell me where you are going, the language they speak, and how to say hello!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12438447140393002776noreply@blogger.com0