For the meat lovers of the world, we present the Brazilian-style “churrascarias” and the “rodízio” buffets. Get ready for over 30 different cuts of meat that will come by your table, and that doesn’t include the salad bar either! Michelle is partial to “coração de galinha” (chicken hearts). Valdo can’t wait for the “costelinha de carneiro” (rack of lamb). Orlando loves the popular “picanha”, which he can’t even say in English, but he knows it is his favorite. No wonder Valdo and Michelle think of American steak restaurants as snacks.
Pronunciation is easy: “ch” in Portuguese always sounds like “sh.”
PODCAST LINK: Lesson 18
From a North American perspective, the Brazilians have very skimpy swimming suits. However, from Valdo and Michelle’s perspective, North American swimsuits are “gigantes”, “enormes.” In the end, as Michelle explains, “não importo, vou continuar com o meu biquini do Brasil” (I don’t care, I’m going to keep on using my Brazilian bikini).
As to pronunciation, did Orlando really say that he wanted to name his daughter “Janela” (window)? Good thing he didn’t!
PODCAST LINK: Lesson 17
For once, a lesson that is easy for native speakers of English, but tough for the native speakers of Spanish. We’re talking about how to pronounce words with “b”, “d”, and “g.” Just wait to hear Jose Luis say the word “abogado”!
As to the cultural topic, Valdo and Michelle are trying to get used to adding tax to the price of the items that they buy.
PODCAST LINK: Lesson 16
Our carioca is back! Once again Vivian Flanzer joins Michelle and Valdo to help us compare how people from Rio de Janeiro pronounce words the “r” sounds. So now we can compare Bahia, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo.
This lesson repeats the dialog from Lesson #14, but is sure doesn’t sound the same when Vivian is talking.
PODCAST LINK: Lesson 15
North Americans don’t always have the greatest image abroad. However, at least we are known as good tippers. Michelle and Valdo tell about how they have to leave more tips than they do in Brazil, and it has been a tough transition.
As to pronunciation, Valdo controlled himself to not call Michelle a “caipira” (hillbilly), but her “r” sounds are truly fantastic.
PODCAST LINK: Lesson 14
This podcast lesson is a repeat of Lesson #12 on the sounds of “s” and “z”. However, in this lesson we have a special guest. Vivian Flanzer is from Rio de Janeiro. And not just Rio, from Copacabana!
In this lesson we get to compare Vivian’s pronunciation to that of Valdo and Michelle. Get ready for some wild sounds for “s” and “z.”
PODCAST LINK: Lesson 13