yet, despite the differences, the language of brazil is still called portuguese and not brazilian, as many often think.

due to the internet, globalization of communication across social networks, major events, increased tourism and a booming economy rio de janeiro's has seen an increase on English being taught, with many cariocas studying English either on their own or because of job requirements.

this said, not many native cariocas speak foreign languages in rio de janeiro, and even communicating using Spanish can be very difficult - so, learning portuguese would be a must for anyone interested in a prolonged stay in the city, or for anyone simply wishing to take home more than just great pictures.