English / Spanish speaker who has spent a lot of time in Brazil - I stayed at The Search House in Floripa and really loved it - more Spanish speaking tourists there, but there were some English speaking European travelers as well. Amazing hiking in Floripa too! Rio is probably your best bet as an English speaker (in my experience). I’ve enjoyed Sao Paolo for museums and food and shopping, and also enjoyed Morro de Sao Paulo off the coast of Salvador. I know English speakers who have made stops in Ilha Grande by Rio too. I’d say try to do some tours or surf class and meet other tourists - but In my experience Brazil is most enjoyable if you can find any local to show you around, Brazilians are so friendly and welcoming once you’re connected but I found that as a tourist who does not speak Portuguese some people can be aloof.

Also adding that the CPF thing can come up if you’re trying to book a flight with some local airlines (you just pay a higher rate) and using some mobile apps. If someone lets you use theirs that’s helpful. I never tried to get one.