Will there be computer/internet access?

Students have weekly scheduled access to the computer and Internet. For additional access, there are various internet cafes in Maceio who charge roughly 1-2 dollars per 15 minutes.

Will hot running water be available?

Hot running water is available in most homestays.

Is it possible to buy everyday items at a reasonable price (ie shampoo, toothpaste, lotion, feminine products, contact solution, deodorant)?

These can be purchased at the local pharmacies at roughly the same price as in the US. If you have a particular brand you prefer, we suggest bringing enough to last you during you stay.

Is it safe to go out at night alone?

It is always smart to go out at night with a friend, although Maceio is very safe and tranquil.

What is the typical cuisine? What will I be eating, especially with my family?

Rice and beans are a staple, as is fruit and meat. For lunch, there are many "self-service" restaurants with excellent food charged by the kilo (approximately US$3). Seafood is popular, a bit more expensive, but worth it. There are also supermarkets to buy snacks and such. There are juice stands along the beach where they make any juice you prefer, including exotic fruits indigenous to Brazil, right in front of you.

Will I have privacy at home?

Students are guaranteed their own room. While Brazilian families are very open, friendly, and accomodating, our homestays do understand that students have homework to complete, letters to write, books to read. It is up to the student to establish this rapport with their family.

What clothes do I absolutely need?

Light, comfortable, casual clothes are best. A bathing suit and sandals are a necessity! Plus, there are many upscale stores and shopping malls, so most everything can be purchased here.

What clothes are not appropriate?

We at our School, and Brazilians in general, are very flexible clotheswise. While it is not necessary to bring, for men, a suit, or women, their fanciest dress, it is up to the student to decide what they want to travel with.

Should I bring gifts to my family and teachers?

Small gifts for the family are a wonderful gesture, and teachers are always proud to wear the t-shirts and hats of the universities and companies their students are affiliated with.

What accessories (i.e. watches, jewelry) are appropriate/not recommended?

It is not smart to wear or bring along your best accessories when travelling. Modesty is suggested in this area.

What will I want to buy when I'm there, including gifts to take home, clothes, crafts?

Maceio has an outdoor market of local crafts ranging from dresses and t-shirts to handmade jewelry and hammocks. Many unique gifts can be found to take back to loved ones.

How much extra money should I bring?

Because housing, breakfast and dinner are included in tuition, money is mostly needed for lunch, necessities, and nightlife- ranging from US$100-250 per month. Students often travel before or after their time at Fast Forward, so it is up to the individual to calculate how much money they will need.

What is the nightlife like?

There are a number of bars, both on the beach and in the city, with live music or recorded Brazilian music playing, plus there are discotheques.

How much are CD's?

CD's are roughly the same price as in the US.

How much is an average meal?

A modest meal is around US$5, and an extravagant meal is under US$10.

Is it safe to take taxis by myself? Is there a bus system?

Taxis are very safe in Maceio, and the busses can take you anywhere in the city.

What is the tipping situation (taxi, restaurant)?

If there is tip, it will be included in the bill. It is not necessary to tip in taxis.

Can I drink tap water?

Although it is not necessary to be paranoid about ingesting the water, we recommend drinking bottled water or water from a cooler as most people do.

What foods should I avoid?

For those with sensitive stomachs, it is best to avoid food from street vendors until accustomed to the environment.

How long does mail take from/to the US? How much is postage?

Mail from the US takes a week more or less, and up to two weeks when sent to the US. A postcard costs R$1 (60 cents), and letters upwards from this.

Is there fast food (ie McDonalds)?

There are McDonalds in Maceio.

Is there a movie theatre?

The cinema in Maceio has current films from Brazil and abroad. Tickets range from US$5-7. Films from outside of Brazil will be subtitled, but Brazilian films are in Portuguese.

What is the overall opinion/stereotype of Americans?

Any foreigner is welcomed the same in Maceio- with open arms! People in Maceio don't have many pre-conceived notions of Americans, and are excited to get to know everyone new.

Do I need a visa? How do I acquire one?

A visa is required. It is best to get a tourist visa from your local Brazilian Consulate.

Will I be picked up at the airport?

All students will be picked up at the airport.

What sort of expectations should I have of the living situation?

Our homestay families range from Middle to Upper class. The facilities are clean and modern; very similar to what would be found in the states.

How do I get to school on the first day?

Your host family will walk with you or drive you to school on the first day.

What happens in a typical day at school?

Classes start at 8 a.m. and end at noon. There are three 10 minute breaks in between. The content of the classes depends on the level of the student.

Where can I play sports?

It is very easy to find a soccer or volleyball game on the beach. There are also regularly scheduled games for students and faculty. Maceio has gyms with modern equipment and various aerobic classes where you are able to purchase monthly memberships.

Can I find a bank and post office near school?

There are banks and post offices within a few blocks of the school.

Where can I make cheap international phone calls?

There are many phone centers where phone cards can be purchased and international calls made.

Where should I exchange money?

We are able to exchange money for you within a day. There are also banks and hotels that exchange currency and traveler's checks for you.