The Cost of Living in Grande Sao Luis: All You Need to Know

Grande Sao Luis is a popular destination in Brazil known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. But how much does it cost to live in this beautiful city? Whether you’re planning to move to Grande Sao Luis or just curious about the cost of living in this region of Brazil, this article will provide you with essential information and insights.

Housing

Finding a suitable place to live in Grande Sao Luis is relatively affordable compared to many other major cities in Brazil. According to Numbeo, the average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around 1,280 BRL per month while renting a similar apartment outside the city center may cost around 800 BRL per month. If you’re looking to buy a property, you should expect to pay around 5,000 to 7,000 BRL per square meter.

Transportation

Transportation costs in Grande Sao Luis vary depending on your preference and lifestyle. The cost of gasoline is approximately 5.50 BRL per liter, and a monthly pass for public transport may cost around 112 BRL. The city offers various transportation options such as buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services like Uber at reasonable prices.

Food

Food is a significant expense in any city, and Grande Sao Luis is no exception. The cost of dining out in popular restaurants may be between 40 BRL to 80 BRL per person, and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant may cost around 20 BRL per person. However, if you prefer to cook your meals, you can buy groceries at the local markets at an affordable price. A liter of milk usually costs around 3.50 BRL, while a loaf of bread is around 4.00 BRL. A kilogram of chicken may cost approximately 9.50 BRL, while a kilogram of beef may be around 31.00 BRL.

Utilities

The cost of utilities in Grande Sao Luis is relatively affordable compared to many other cities in Brazil. The monthly cost of electricity, heating, water, and garbage disposals for a standard apartment can be around 200 BRL. Internet services from major providers cost around 80 BRL per month.

Entertainment

If you’re looking to enjoy some entertainment, Grande Sao Luis has plenty of options. The cost of a movie ticket is around 32 BRL, while entry fees to museums can be as low as 6 BRL. The city also offers a variety of nightlife options, with cost depending on your preference and location.

Conclusion

Overall, the cost of living in Grande Sao Luis is relatively affordable compared to many other major cities in Brazil. With reasonable housing, transportation, and food costs, you can enjoy a high-quality lifestyle without breaking the bank. However, individual lifestyle and preferences may affect personal expenses. We hope this article provided helpful insights for your planning and decision-making processes.

The Insider’s Guide to Grande São Luis

Grande São Luis is a coastal city located in northeastern Brazil. It is the capital of Maranhão state and is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, delicious cuisine, and lively cultural scene. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a close look at everything this amazing city has to offer, including local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Grande São Luis is a city full of landmarks that boast beautiful architecture and scenic beauty. Here are some of the must-see spots:

• The Historic Center: Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the historic center of São Luis preserves intact the architecture and urban layout of the city from colonial times. You’ll find colorful colonial buildings with intricate balconies and decorative tiles called Azulejos, narrow cobblestone streets, and numerous churches. A walk around this charming neighborhood is like taking a step back in time.
• Lencois Maranhenses National Park: Located about three hours from São Luis, Lencois Maranhenses National Park is a unique natural attraction. The park covers an area of over 150,000 hectares and features sand dunes that resemble sheets or bedspreads, hence the name Lencois Maranhenses. During the rainy season, thousands of lagoons form between the dunes, creating a unique and breathtaking landscape.
• The Sao Luis coastline: Grande São Luis is blessed with several beaches stretching across its coastline. Ponta d’Areia, Calhau, and Olho d’Agua are some of the most popular ones. You can enjoy a day at the beach, soak up the sun in front of the crystal-clear waters, and indulge in some fantastic local cuisine.

Dining Spots

São Luis’s cuisine is a blend of Portuguese, indigenous, and African influences, making it a foodie’s paradise. Here are some of the best dining spots to try locally:

• Casa das Tulhas: Located in the historic center, this spot offers traditional Maranhão dishes such as arroz de cuxá, a rice dish cooked with a native herb called vinagreira, and Carne-de-sol, a type of preserved beef that is fried and served with rice and beans.
• Feijão de Corda: Famous for its restaurant chain in São Luís, this dining spot presents traditional food from all around Brazil, with enough space for musicians to perform live on a stage.
• Bar do Porto: Located on the river front, this bar offers delicious seafood dishes with an incredible view of the sunset.

Cultural Experiences

Grande São Luis is a city rich with culture and traditions. Here are some cultural experiences you should consider:

• Festa Junina: This is one of the most important celebrations in São Luis. It is a festival held in June to celebrate the Catholic feast day of Saint John the Baptist. You can expect colorful dressings, traditional music, and excellent food and drinks.
• Bumba-meu-boi: Another popular festival, bumba-meu-boi, takes place during the Festa Junina period. It is a theatrical performance with music and a story that tells the tale of a dying bull, revived by a miracle.
• Museu do Reggae: Inaugurated in 2001, the museum houses a large collection of items related to the history of reggae music in Maranhão, including musical instruments, posters, photos, and vinyl records. It is worth a visit if you are a fan of the music genre.

Local History

Nestled on the banks of the Baía de São Marcos, São Luis is one of the oldest settlements in Brazil. Its history is broadly appreciated, and visitors have a lot to learn. Here are some of the best spots to visit in Sao Luis when delving into local history:

• Palácio dos Leões: Built-in 1612, it was considered the headquarters of the Portuguese captaincy of Maranhão, and today houses Maranhão’s government.
• Casa de Nhozinho: This museum was created in honor of Nhozinho, a craftsman who created dolls that represented local characters, such as bumba-meu-boi performers and carnival revelers.
• Mercado Central: This marketplace has been operating since 1916 and is prominent among the locals. Visitors can purchase cultural goods and items there.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

In São Luis, there are still spots that are yet to be explored, even by the locals. Here are a few suggestions:

• Ilha dos Amores: This is a beautiful and quiet island near São Luis, perfect for escaping the city’s busy life. You can reach it by boat, and it is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying some alone time.
• Travessa Rua da Cruz: A street where many traditional musical groups originate, curated with paintings and street graffiti. It shows off the town’s liveliness and musical vibrance.
• Morro do Careca: Almost hidden inside the locals’ community, this small hill provides a spectacular view of the city’s skyline. This is a great place to visit at sunset and take photos of the scenery.

Conclusion

Grande São Luis is a city that boasts an incredible blend of history, culture, tasty food, and stunning scenery. Your visit to this sensational city will be an unforgettable experience that you’ll cherish forever. As long as you plan your trip accordingly, there is no better way to enjoy your time in Brazil than by staying in this beautiful coastal city.