Year after year, Orlando remains a top destination for Brazilians. Gorgeous weather, endless entertainment, and nonstop flights available from Sao Paulo to Orlando make us an ideal destination. Due to the rise in Brazilian tourism, Orlando has many Brazilian-owned shops and restaurants near I-Drive, and it is common to hear Portuguese while out and about. If you are planning a trip to Orlando from Brazil, check out these tips to make your visit the best yet.

The Best Places to Shop for Deals

Orlando is famous for its many shopping malls and designer outlets, which carry brand names at discount prices. You’ll definitely want to stop at these malls to pick up souvenirs and gifts for family and friends.

• Orlando International Premium Outlets

If you are shopping for name brand items, this is the place to be. Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, Nike, and Victoria’s Secret are a few of the brands you’ll find here. There are also luggage stores such as Samsonite, The Luggage Store, and TravelPro so you can pick up a new suitcase to carry your treasures home.

• Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores

If you prefer to avoid big crowds, we recommend visiting the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores. They aren’t nearly as busy at the outlets on I-Drive and carry a large selection of designer perfumes, luggage, cosmetics, and even Disney-themed items. There is also a currency exchange, in case you need to swap Brazilian reais for American dollars.

• The Florida Mall

As one of Florida’s largest shopping malls, The Florida Mall is home to more than 250 stores. You’ll find brands like Apple, The Disney Store, MAC Cosmetics, and more right here. In addition to shopping, many locations also offer interactive family-fun, such as at The American Girl Store and The Crayola Experience.

The Best Places for Brazilian Food in Orlando

It’s always fun to try new foods when traveling, but if you are missing home (or curious to see what Brazilian food made in America tastes like), we recommend these Brazilian restaurants on International Drive. You’ll find Portuguese-speaking staff at all of these restaurants.

• Pao Gostoso Bakery

As evidenced by their Instagram, Pao Gostoso bakery is a favorite among locals, tourists, and even Brazilian celebrities visiting Orlando. Their menu includes coxinha, pao de queijo, bolo de banana, and of course, coffee.

• Camila’s Restaurant – 5458 International Drive

This buffet style restaurant has been serving delicious Brazilian food in Orlando since 1994 and is known as “the Brazilian Flavor Embassy in America.” Every Saturday, you can enjoy freshly made feijoada in addition to the usual buffet.

• Fogo de Chao

With locations all over the world, Fogo de Chao is well known for its southern Brazilian cuisine. This elegant steakhouse offers picanha, fraldinha, forofa, cordeiro, flan, and much more made in the authentic gaucho tradition.

The Best Orlando Attractions to Visit

Orlando has so much to do, you can’t possibly do it all in one trip. If you aren’t sure which attractions should be on your must-see list, check out our list below:

• Orlando Theme Parks

Of course, you can’t visit Orlando without spending at least one day at the theme parks. With everything from roller coaster thrills to animal encounters and immersive character experiences, the theme parks will truly be the highlight of your trip. Prepare for your visit with our tips and tricks for making the most of your theme park day.

• Orlando Water Parks

Just like the theme parks, you should visit at least one Orlando water park. Even if you are visiting during January you can still enjoy the water – winter in Orlando is sunny and warm, and most water parks are open.

• ICON Park

Orlando has many local attractions worth a visit, and we recommend starting with the brand new Orlando StarFlyer. It’s the tallest one in the world and will send you soaring 450 feet (137 m) above International Drive. The StarFlyer is located in ICON Park, which is also home to Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, and of course, The Wheel.

Book a Hotel near the Attractions

Like most of the United States, Orlando is spread out and not walker-friendly. Even if you are renting a car, the best thing to do is choose a hotel close to all the attractions you want to visit. Our properties are all located on International Drive and in the Lake Buena Vista area, minutes away from the Orlando theme parks and water parks. We also offer special rates and perks for groups. To get the best deal on your Orlando hotel, click on the yellow button above, or give us a call at 1-866-337-6736.