Paulistanos were often eager to help with directions and other information, using a combination of gesticulations and good-natured stabs at English and Spanish.
Late on a Saturday morning, we joined the many people who go to the mercado at lunchtime for the pastel de bacalhau, or codfish pastry, at the Hocca Bar, which went well with a cold Brahma draft beer.
A visitor information booth at Guarulhos, 55-11 6445-3001, is open 7 a.