Florianopolis is a hip, tropical beach resort that has a glistening skyline and lovely historic neighborhoods. The beaches of the island play host to celebrities and other tourists from all over the world, who come here for enjoyable sun tanning sessions and surfing. Here is a practical information guide to help visitors get acquainted with Florianopolis.

Population

According to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics, Florianopolis has a population of approximately 406,600, with the metropolitan area accounting for an estimated head count of about 821, 600.

Languages

Brazil has several indigenous languages like Apalai, Arara, Borora, Canela and several others, but the most widely-spoken and official language remains Portuguese. With the influx of recent Asian and European immigrants, there are also a few new dialects that are being spoken in the region. Florianopolis, being a tourist hotspot, has a lot of English-speaking inhabitants.

Currency

The currency of the nation is Brazil Real (BRL ) and the current exchange rate is 1 BRL=0.577701 U.S dollars.

Visa Information

For leisure travelers, a tourist visa has to be obtained before the scheduled travel date from the Brazilian Embassy located in the home country. After submission of relevant documents, the visa is issued within three to ten days. The validity of the tourist visa is 90 days from the date of issue. The cost of the visa varies for different nationalities, so it’s best with check with the embassy. These are the documents required for submission for processing the visa:

• Application form
• A passport-size photograph
• Valid passport with a full blank page
• Return ticket
• Proof of financial resources to fund the trip
• Visa payment fee
• Self-addressed stamped envelope (for postal application only)
• Insurance papers

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not obligatory in Florianopolis, and most restaurants already include a 10% service charge in their bill. If visitors get a good exchange rate and are particularly impressed with the service, they can tip any amount they wish. There isn’t a thumb rule or a given rate as such. Tourists generally tip the hotel staff, taxi drivers and beach attendants in town.

Vaccines

The tropical climate of the region can breed certain illnesses if visitors are not careful about their health. It's a must to get the following vaccines after consultation with your medical practitioner: Tetanus, measles, MMR, typhoid pills, Hepatitis A and B, malaria pills, yellow fever vaccine, rabies and a few over the counter medications as prescribed by your practitioner.

Florianopolis is a snazzy island resort that has more than a hundred beaches with delightful recreational and adventure-packed activities.