Expert: Sandra - 7/2/2010

Question
I'm going to Brazil for a week for a friend's wedding.  I have been told that even though I am a flabby size 12/14, pasty pale American I should wear a bikini on the beach.  I've heard that if I wear my normal "Skirtini" (skirted bottom/ tankini top) I will stand out like a sore thumb and that could pose a safety risk.   I'm more worried that my unsightly fat deposits will offend anyone who is unfortunate enough to have me in their field of vision.     

Is it really ok for unattractive/ larger tourist to wear bikinis in Brazil?

Answer
Everybody and most every body, from kids to expectant moms to grandmas, wears a 'biquini' rather than a 'maillot' (one piece). Even fat guys wear the male version, a 'sunga'. A "skirtini" is unknown, unless maybe it constitutes daywear for walking around town. Yes, you will stand out, without doubt. No, that does not necessarily pose a safety risk. (Lack of judgement does.) Whatever you wear, you will absolutely stand out as a foreigner, so just forget about worrying and get on with having fun on your trip. Wear whatever is comfortable for you. Whatever it is, no one is going to look twice.