An annual tradition has begun—escaping the cold of the U.S. winter for the warmth of Brazil’s summer. What started as a seasonal getaway has become something much more: a reunion with brothers. With a growing team of engineers at Junges Bros. and friendships that have evolved into family, these trips are no longer just about work; they’re about connection, tradition, and unforgettable moments.

Every visit is filled with long nights around the churrasco, where the aroma of sizzling picanha fills the air, and plates are never empty. The laughter never stops—whether it’s over inside jokes, wild adventures, or the friendly roasting that only happens among the closest of friends.

I was fortunate to meet many new people on this trip that are now part of the family. From the brothers girlfriends (finally), to Amir, Julie, and their adorable spunky daughter, to Gustavo and Laura, and a Brazilian Aussie—these are an incredible group of people and I look forward to our deepening connections.

On this trip, we had the privilege of being hosted by Leoni and Luis Junges—Andre and Alexandre’s parents—at their beautiful new home for an unforgettable churrasco. The grill was stacked high with massive, perfectly seared steaks, smoky chicken hearts, and an incredible spread of fresh, fire-roasted vegetables. With every bite, the flavors of Brazil came alive, paired with ice-cold beer and the kind of effortless conversation that only happens when you’re surrounded by family.

As the night went on, laughter echoed through the patio, stories were shared, and toasts were raised to old friendships growing even stronger. It was more than just a meal—it was a celebration of connection, warmth, and the traditions that keep bringing us back.

After a night of great food and laughter, we headed out early for a week at Campeche Beach, Florianopolis. You can read all about that here.

Novo Hamburgo

After an incredible week in Florianópolis, we headed inland for another adventure—this time to Novo Hamburgo. What followed was a week filled with great food, great company, and unforgettable moments.

Football (Americano)

One of the highlights of the trip was catching the AFC and NFC Championship games. Watching football in Brazil is always a unique experience, surrounded by one passionate Brazilian (alexandre) and the rest who were wondering why the yellow card is a flag, but still brought their energy and excitement to the event. Between each touchdown and field goal, we enjoyed some great pizza, generously hosted by Alexandre and Laura.

Thiago’s Place

It was also exciting to visit Thiago’s new home—an impressive and welcoming space that reflected his warmth and hospitality. Thiago started working with us back in 2020 while he was still finishing his computer science degree—working and living at home. Fast-forward 5-years, he now has an incredible condo in downtown Novo Hamburgo and hosted us for a night of burgers.

Rafael’s Place

One particularly memorable evening was spent at Rafael’s family home, where they hosted yet another incredible BBQ. The night was filled with laughter, great food, and even better company. We spent time shooting pool, cooling off in the pool, and simply enjoying the relaxed atmosphere with friends who feel more like family. It was one of those perfect nights where the hours slipped away effortlessly, leaving us with nothing but gratitude for the people around us.

Andre’s Birthday

We also had the chance to celebrate André’s birthday in style, gathering with a big group of friends for an unforgettable night. We went out to a traditional Brazilian all-you-can-eat restaurant, where servers walked around with trays of freshly made crepes filled with all kinds of deliciousness. From savory options loaded with cheese and meats to decadent sweet crepes drizzled with chocolate and fruit, every bite was a taste of Brazil’s incredible culinary culture. The energy of the night was electric, filled with laughter, toasts, and the joy of celebrating a great friend in the best way possible.

Futbol (Brazilian)

Fitness remained a priority during the week, and we managed to get in some solid workouts—balancing out all the indulgent feasts. But the real athletic highlight came on the soccer field. In a fiercely competitive pickup game, this American managed to score a goal and help our team defeat the Brazilian squad. It was one of those moments of pure joy, and humiliating for Rafael and Gustavo - camaraderie in the best way possible.

Looking back, my time in Novo Hamburgo was more than just a visit—it was a homecoming of sorts. The friendships here run deep, and every gathering felt like a reunion with family. Whether it was over a shared meal, a workout, or a hard-fought game on the pitch, the week was a testament to the power of connection and the joy of being surrounded by people who truly matter.

After two weeks, I packed up and left Novo Hamburgo with a full heart, full stomach, and memories that will last a lifetime. These trips have become more than an escape from winter; they’re a reminder that home isn’t just a place—it’s the people you share it with.

For more pictures of Novo Hamburgo click here.

Novo Hamburgo, Brazil