I was always a bashful kid and super shy with new acquaintances, and growing up I was awkward and constantly embarrassed. I can totally understand how it's hard to overcome this. But one way to put it in perspective is this: You care what they think because you assume they will judge you harshly and will probably have a negative impression of you for a very long time. But you know what? That's on them. That's their own energy and stress that they are exerting for playing the judge. You can completely remove yourself from that worry by remembering that you are living your own life. Not to mention the fact that it's good to have some faith in humanity too. When you find yourself assuming negative things, it's important to stop your own train of thought and try to get a new perspective. Remember, you can just as easily make a great impression, give them the benefit of the doubt and assume that they'll love you. It's a new way of thinking but it'll help your own confidence and soon enough you'll be exuding positivity.

About Brazil! I haven't been to South America yet but I will make it there in the next year or two. I'd love to swap travel tips and learn some new ideas for traveling :)