Can I survive in Florianopolis with English and no Portugese?

[maxim1]

Hi,
Just wondering if I can get by in Floripa with English and no Portugese for a few months.
I've heard that's getting more cosmopolitan but how about the English skills of the locals?
Cheers from Russia
Maxim

[Wilian_Molinari]

Hey Maxim,

In general people speak little english. When you need help try asking to younger people, like university students, since older adults are very to understand english. Also when shopping try avoiding small local stores and go to shopping malls, where people are also better prepared. For the public transportation, there is an english version of the mobile app you can download on your phone.

I'd reccomend learning some basic portuguese words just in case.

Feel free to write if you need further help,
Wilian

[Fran_Gladis]

Hello, Maxim
Not a lot of people in florianopolis speak fluent English, but many, specially people who work in hotels, restaurants and stores, are able to communicate well in English. A lot of tourists from all over the world come to florianopolis during the summer and none seem to have many problems with the language, I think you will be fine!
Greetings from Floripa!

[Yuri_Vendruscolo]

Hello,
It depends on where you would stay/wander.
I would say you could get by with just english if you stick to "Lagoa", where lots of other foreigners also come.
Unfortunately, I believe it may be difficult to interact with locals in general. The younger generations will have such communication skills. On the other hand (as expected), if you venture to the less touristy places, you may have difficulties.
Try Duolingo just to get to know the basics, and maybe you could do stuff like asking for food/directions quickly, and then you would be fine I believe.

TL;DR: you can survive.