Someone posted on social media recently that she was on a beach in Brazil, toward the end of the day, and heard people clapping. She thought they were applauding the sunset. Then she learned that they were in the vicinity of a lost child, and the custom is for people to clap so the parents will know where to find their wayward offspring.
I liked this story for two reasons. One, it showed the special cohesiveness of Brazilian society. And it also demonstrated to travelers that going where the locals go – even when it’s the beach – can be illuminating about the culture.
