Major shopping centres also open on Sundays. All the above times are subject to local variations and many shops open until late in the evenings, especially in December. Feb 25-26 Parade of the top Samba Schools . Handshaking is customary on meeting and taking one's leave, and normal European courtesies are observed. Frequent offers of coffee and tea are customary.
Flowers are acceptable as a gift on arrival or following a visit for a meal.
A souvenir from the visitor's home country will be well-received as a gift of appreciation. Casual wear is normal, particularly during hot weather. For more formal occasions the mode of dress will be indicated on invitations. Smoking is acceptable unless notified otherwise. The Catholic Church is highly respected in the community, something which should be kept in mind by the visitor.