Brazil's COE

Since we've spent so much time in one country, I almost forgot about the Cost of Essentials I listed for previous places we've visited.  I also looked back and realized I didn't include the COE for Uruguay.  So here are the COE's for the last two countries we've visited:

 

Brazil COE:

Pack of Cigarettes: $1.25

McDonalds Combo Meal: $5.00

Domestic Beer (can) at a bar: $2.00

Domestic Beer (12-pack cans) at the Grocery: $7.00

 

Brazil can also be a cheap place to eat if you like the local food.  Many restaurants are buffet style and give you a choice of paying a flat fee or per kilo for all you can eat.  It works out best to pay the flat fee if you eat a lot; otherwise, it's smarter to pay per kilo.  Unfortunately, you have to decide how you want to be charged before you eat.  Throughout Brazil, most small restaurants serve the same dishes or meals.  For example, you can get a Prato Executivo almost anywhere, which consists of meat, rice, beans, french fries and salad.  The cost usually ranges from $3-4 depending on the city and neighborhood you're in.  I got sick of it after three months, but I know I will soon grow to miss my File de Frango meal for R$10. 

 

Uruguay COE:

Pack of Cigarettes: $2.00

McDonalds Combo Meal: $6.00

Liter of Domestic Beer at the Grocery: $1.50

Liter of Imported Beer at the Grocery: $2.00