"It's the Network" just not in Brazil :) by Eric

Outside our building today, I saw an old VW van. Upon closer inspection, I saw a laminated sign on the front passenger door, which said, "Vivo - Authorized Service". For those unfamiliar with the Brazilian market, Vivo is one of the three biggest cell phone carriers here in Brazil. 

We were able to get two prepaid cell phones with SIM cards through Vivo. 

So far the service has been decent, especially since the alternative was radio silence. 

Nevertheless, the sheer "caliber" of the service technician as evidenced by the service vehicle below provides me a strong sense of comfort that our "cell network" will always be there for us.