Former fisherman in Paraty lives off tourism, receives government aid, undecided on vote
Translated from Portuguese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Arnor da Cruz Conceição, a former fisherman in Paraty, now relies on tourism for income.
- He receives government benefits to supplement his earnings.
- Conceição, 78, struggles to recall his voting choices from the 2022 presidential election.
Arnor da Cruz Conceição, a 78-year-old former fisherman, now makes a living from tourism in the picturesque coastal town of Paraty, Rio de Janeiro. His days are spent on his boat, anchored in the bay, a stark contrast to his previous life at sea.
To supplement his income from the fluctuating tourism industry, Conceição receives government benefits. This support helps him navigate the economic uncertainties of his current livelihood.
Reflecting on past political events, Conceição admits to having difficulty recalling his vote in the 2022 presidential elections. "Last time, Lula was president, right? Or not?" he mused, sitting at the stern of his boat, highlighting a common sentiment of detachment or confusion regarding political choices among some citizens.
His situation in Paraty, a town known for its colonial architecture and natural beauty, illustrates the intersection of traditional livelihoods, the modern tourism economy, and the daily realities of citizens receiving government assistance.
Na última, era o Lula o presidente, n? Ou não?
Originally published by Folha de S.Paulo in Portuguese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.