'''Minas Gerais''' is a state in Brazil's Southeast region.
Regions
Central
Central West (''Centro-oeste'')
Jequitinhonha-Mucuri
Mata
North (''Norte'')
Northwest (''Noroeste'')
Paranaiba
Rio Doce
South (''Sul'')
Triangulo (''Triangulo'')
Cities
Belo Horizonte -- the state's capital, a cultural and economic metropolis
Congonhas
Diamantina -- famous for its diamonds, its music and 18th century architecture
Ouro Preto -- the most important Brazilian ensemble of Baroque architecture, a World Heritage Site
Juiz de Fora -- an industrial and university center located between Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte, hosts an important festival of Baroque music
Sao Joao del Rei -- the largest colonial town
Tiradentes -- A charming small colonial town
Other destinations
Caraca
Understand
"Minas Gerais" means "General Mines", so called because of the various mines in the area. Some still operate; in February 2006 a ring of diamond smugglers, passing off diamonds from Minas as if they were South African, was broken up.
Electricity
Electricity in Minas Gerais is 110 V 60 Hz, but there may be 220 V outlets, so ask. Plugs have two round prongs about 2 cm apart, but outlets that also handle US plugs are common in places frequented by tourists, such as hotels and LAN houses.
Talk
Mineiros speak Portuguese like other Brazilians, but the Mineiro ''accent'' can be difficult to understand. If someone's speech sounds like a jumble of sounds, try saying ''Pode falar devagar, por favor?'', middle-class young people usually speak at least some english.
Get in
Get around
See
Itineraries
Do
Eat
Minas traditional cousine is unique but was mainly influenced by the Portuguese.
If you go to Belo Horizonte you should visit the restaurant "Maria das Trancas", another great option is "Engenho de Minas".
Drink
Stay safe
Get out