I traveled from Brazil to the US for the World Cup and filled my suitcases with bargains. My favorite purchase cost $15.
A Brazilian fan recounts his experience traveling to the US for the 2026 World Cup, noting the high cost of tickets compared to the affordability of shopping for consumer goods. He highlights the cultural and economic differences experienced during his trip.
Why it matters
The article illustrates the economic impact of mega-events on international visitors and the disparity between event costs and local retail pricing.
Andrei Seben Fontana, Lucas Coronetti Fontana, Vagner Fontana, and Ajadil Fontana in front of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Andrei Seben Fontana Andrei Seben Fontana traveled to the US for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with family, attending one game. He found US shopping more affordable than Brazil, buying clothes and tech gadgets during his trip. While shopping was cheap he found ticket prices and experiences where expensive in comparison. This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with 33-year-old Andrei Seben Fontana from Tapejara, Brazil. It has been edited for length and clarity. I traveled with my dad, uncle, and cousin to Atlanta, Miami, and New York City for the 2026 FIFA World Cup . The super-expensive ticket prices meant we were only able to afford the cheapest game we could find in Atlanta.
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