longboard or fish in Brazil?

[hissssa]

First post here so cheers all!

I'm skipping on my Japan working visa next month for Brazil to live with my gf in Sao Paolo who works at the Japanese consulate there. I'm taking off with nothing but a Nike duffel full of clothes.

I'm going to pick up surfing, something I always wanted to do. I always loved the beach and the waves but I have always been more of a snowboarder so let's see how that goes.

Should I invest in a longboard or a fish? I hear longboards are recommended for beginners. How are Brazilian waves in July/August? Should I be more worried about criminality in Sao Paolo?

Any advice appreciated.

[leolivi]

Hi there hisssa. I live in Brazil, but in Rio Grande do Sul. The southernest state of the country. Here in Brazil most people use shortboards. More than that, you'll probaly see that most people LEARN on a shortboard. Just get a big thick shortboard to start.

About criminality, yes be very worried about it. Specialy since you came from canada and japan that are very civilized places, you'll have to learn to live in a place where anywhere you go you should be watching your back.

I dont know surf in são paulo, so i cant help you about that specificaly, but if you are fit and not too heavy, just get a big shortboard and it will be allright.

Oh, of course! There probably will be some surf schools. Start with one. They will rent you a huge foamie. After you got to stand up a lot on the foamie and if you enjoyed the sport then buy yourself a board.

[surf patrol]

Hi hissssa, welcome to Surfing Waves

[#1 5urfer]

i useto live in Brazil too, and yes you should be careful ..its very dangerous ...i just got interested in surfing now and the bad thing is i don't live in brazil no more..so i can't go surfing which sucks.Well, best of luck to you , and i hope you catch some great waves!

[jamie s]

if you are just beggining i highly reccomend you do not get a short board but about a 7.10 or 8 around that area otherwise it will make you feel you are getting now were