VBRATA BROCHURE 2017 by BBMag

A QUICK GUIDE TOâ&#x20AC;¦

BRAZIL

WELCOME TO BRAZIL TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

Caracas

Welcome to the latest edition of VBRATA –

When it comes to getting good, sound advice

Visit Brazil Travel Association’s quick guide to

on travelling to and around Brazil, contact a

Cayenne

Brazil. If you are considering a visit to Brazil,

VBRATA member. They are the real experts on

FRENCH GUIANA

let VBRATA be the first to welcome you. We

everything Brazilian. You can find the contact

are here to help you get the most out of

details for our members at www.vbrata.org.uk.

PANAMA VENEZUELA

Georgetown Paramaribo

GUYANA

Bogotá

SURINAM COLOMBIA

Boa Vista Amapá

Roraima

Quito

Macapá

planning and travelling to Brazil. Belém

ECUADOR

Manaus Pará

Amazonas

Fortaleza Ceara

Maranhão

Porto Velho

Rio Branco Lima

Piauí

Palmas Bahia

Tocantins

Mato Grosso

Natal João Pessoa Recife Alagoas Maceió Sergipe Aracaju

Paraíba Pernambuco

BRAZIL

Rondônia

PERU

Rio Grande do Norte

Salvador

VBRATA – Visit Brazil Travel Association is a

teasing taster to whet your appetite, as to what

European Travel Association, UK based, not-

you might discover and uncover by travelling

for-profit organisation whose members are

to and around Brazil. But in this guide we

dedicated and committed to promoting Brazil

only just scratch the surface and the VBRATA

as a tourist and cultural destination to both the

membership will be able to tell and show you

travelling public and the UK travel trade.

so much more.

Cuiabá

La Paz

Goiás

BRASÍLIA

Goiânia

BOLIVIA

Minas Gerais

Mato Grosso do Sul

Espirito Santo

Belo Horizonte

Campo Grande

São Paulo

PARAGUAY

Foz do Iguaçu Santa Catarina Rio Grande do Sul

Paralympic Games in 2016, this is the time for

offices within Brazil support the association.

Brazil. All Brazilians look forward to welcoming you with open arms, just like the statue of Christ

Curitiba

Embassy, as well as our membership that is made

the Redeemer looking down on Rio de Janeiro.

Florianópolis

up of the UK based tour operators, airlines and

Paraná

Asunción

Rio de Janeiro

With the World Cup in 2014 and the Olympic and

In the UK we have the support of the Brazilian

São Paulo

CHILE

Vitória

The Brazilian Tourist Board (EMBRATUR), as well as all the regional, state and municipal tourist

Rio de Janeiro

hotel groups with specialist knowledge of Brazil.

Welcome. Bem-vindo.

Porto Alegre

WELCOME TO BRAZIL

Teresina Acre

What follows is a quick guide to Brazil, a

São Luís

ARGENTINA URUGUAY Santiago

Buenos Aires

Montevideo

Contents PAGE

BRAZIL OVERVIEW

TRAVEL TIPS

SOUTHEAST

FOZ & SOUTH

CENTRAL WEST

AMAZON & NORTH

NORTHEAST

A-Z OF BRAZIL

CONTACT DETAILS

VBRATA.org

AMAZON & NORTH NORTHEAST

B R A ZI L CENTRAL WEST SOUTHEAST

SOUTH

minas

Gerais

TIRADENTES, CHURCH OF SANTO ANTONIO

BELO HORIZONTE, MINEIRÃO FOOTBALL STADIUM

CACHOEIRA GRANDE WATERFALL, SERRA DO CIPÓ

OURO PRETO, STREET FESTIVITIES

Discover... the natural and cultural wonders of Minas Gerais - Brazil

TRADITIONAL SWEETS

INHOTIM GARDENS

STREET CARNIVAL

OURO PRETO, HISTORICAL CITY

O n l i n e T r ai n i n g f o r T r av el Ag en t s w w w . mi n as o n l i n et r ai n i n g . co . u k

...you are guaranteed an amazing experience.

For further details about Minas Gerais visit www.minasgerais.com.br

GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF MINAS GERAIS

BRAZIL OVERVIEW Time For Brazil This is Brazil’s time. This is Brazil’s moment in the sun. Not that the sun has ever been missing from Brazil, even in the country’s darkest hours of military dictatorships, economic meltdown and the global energy crisis.

most politically stable democracies. It lends

brilliance of its football team, will host the FIFA

money to the IMF, and despite the recent global

World Cup in 2014 (13 June-13 July) and follow

economic troubles, its economy is is doing well

that up by hosting the Olympic (5-21 August)

on both the domestic and international front.

and Paralympic (7-18 September) Games in

Recent massive oil and gas finds, along with

Rio de Janeiro in 2016.

its well-developed biofuels programme, make Brazil a serious player in the energy market,

If ever there was a time to come and discover

whatever measurement you choose to go by.

what Brazil has to offer, either for business or leisure (the pleasure is a given), it is now.

Brazil in the past decade has stepped out from the shadows to take its place at the top table,

So let’s get down to the basics and introduce

and not only as the regional leader in South

you to our friend Brazil.

BRAZIL OVERVIEW

Today Brazil is one of the world’s largest and

America, both economically and politically, but also as a global leader. When Brazil speaks, people and governments around the world

Regional Giant

now sit up and take note. Brazil is the giant of the Latin American region. And the future looks even more promising.

It is the world’s fifth largest nation in terms of

Brazil, a country synonymous with the

area and population. Its landmass is far larger

VBRATA.org

Flying Down to Rio

than Europe combined or the continental USA, and it is just a small matter of being 35-times larger in area than the entire United Kingdom.

If people have only heard of one city in Brazil

Brazil is not really a country, it is more of a

or South America, it will be Rio de Janeiro.

continent and you can’t explore continents in

A city of unrivalled beauty and fun, once the

just a couple of days, so do give yourself the time

country’s capital it is rapidly regaining its

to do Brazil justice when you do come visiting.

importance as a business centre thanks to being at the very heart of the Brazilian oil and

Brazil currently has a population of

gas industries. Hosting the 2016 Olympics does

approximately 193 million. There are

no harm either.

largest music festival in South America, and the

Rio has been a global icon ever since

global successes as “City of God”, “Central

country’s film industry which is behind such

23 metropolitan areas in the country with a population of over one million, of which São Paulo is the largest with 21 million

market; the country is the seventh largest

Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers started “flying

Station” and “Tropa de Elite”. The city is also the

producer of vehicles in the world; and 45% of

down to Rio” back in the 1920s. It is glamorous,

inspiration and backdrop to the recent hit films

all energy consumed in Brazil already comes

sexy and fun. A major city, yet also a tropical

“Rio” (photo); “Fast & Furious 5: Rio Heist”; and

from renewable sources. The numbers are

beach resort.

“Twilight Series: Breaking Dawn”.

business executives find themselves on a

Rio is home to globally recognizable attractions

But Brazil, as many visitors have already

plane to Brazil, a country that is the UK’s most

that include the statue of Christ the Redeemer on

discovered and will be happy to tell you,

important trading partner in Latin America.

Corcovado Mountain; Sugar Loaf Mountain; the

is much, much more than just Rio de Janeiro

beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema; and the

and São Paulo. It is a country of many

Latin America’s largest industrial and

Maracanã, a stadium built for the 1950 World

hidden treasures and experiences waiting

commercial centre, and often the gateway

Cup which will now again host the World Cup

to be uncovered.

to Brazil through its international airport,

Final, this time in 2014, and the opening and

is São Paulo. The city is known for being the

closing ceremonies of the 2016 Olympics.

economic engine that pulls the rest of the Brazilian economy behind it. São Paulo, you

residents, and Rio de Janeiro second with just

Hidden Treasures

Rio is equally famous for its artistic contributions

will also discover, is one of the world’s great

that include bossa nova and samba, as well as

As well as being home to Rio de Janeiro and

cosmopolitan cities and is only not better

the city’s famous carnival. Although today

São Paulo, and nearly half of the Brazilian

known and respected due to the proximity

Rio is rivalled in that respect by the carnival

population, the southeast of Brazil is where

of its somewhat more famous and infamous

celebrations in Salvador and Recife, amongst

the historic towns of Minas Gerais are to be

neighbour, Rio de Janeiro.

others. But Rio is also home to Rock in Rio, the

found. A collection of towns and villages that

BRAZIL OVERVIEW

impressive and that is why so many British

over 12 million. For business Brazil is one of the world’s largest and fastest growing economies and markets. The country is home to the world’s third largest stock exchange; it is one of the world’s top eight agricultural producers; it has the largest healthcare market in Latin America; Embraer is the world’s third largest commercial airline manufacturer; Brazilians are the largest consumers of luxury products in Latin America and the world’s eighth largest luxury goods

VBRATA.org

make up one of mankind’s great colonial legacies, this in a country that is full of artistic and architectural masterpieces. At last count, Brazil boasts no less than 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites of which the towns of Ouro Preto and Diamantina, and the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus in Congonhas, are in Minas Gerais. Further to the south is a prosperous, subtropical region that has been influenced by the countless European immigrants who have flourished here over the centuries, helping to develop the great cities of Porto Alegre,

The main fall is the largest in the world in terms national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Away from the coast, in the geographical centre of South America, there is Brazil’s Central West that offers the striking contrast between the country’s futuristic capital, Brasília, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right along with the historic centre of nearby Goias, and the Pantanal, Brazil’s own wild west that holds one of the largest and richest reserves of flora and

BRAZIL OVERVIEW

of volume of water per second and the entire

fauna known to man. Florianópolis, and Curitiba. It is the region that is responsible for Brazil’s fine wines and outstanding beef, as well as one of the world’s great natural wonders and most popular tourist sites in Latin America – the waterfalls at Foz do Iguaçu. It is also home to the exceptional beaches of Santa Catarina from where whale watching is growing in popularity; the majestic highlands of Rio Grande do Sul; and the Jesuit Missions. Five times larger than its North American cousin, Niagara, the 275 individual falls at Foz stretch nearly 1.8 miles (3 km) across the Iguaçu River to Argentina.

VBRATA.org

In the north the Pantanal links up and merges with the many undiscovered wonders of the Amazon, which has at its heart the man-made oasis of Manaus. Once, during the rubber boom, one of the world’s richest and most cosmopolitan cities, today Manaus acts as a gateway for visitors looking to explore the Amazon rainforest and it will be one of the 12 host cities for the 2014 World Cup. Over 60% of the Amazon is located in Brazil, it is a rainforest that is responsible for generating

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Northeast include the historic centres of Salvador, Olinda, São Luis, and São Cristóvão, as well as the Serra da Capivara National Park, the Atlantic Rainforest, and the ecological archipelago of dive site. In short, Brazil is a treasure trove of experiences, attractions, and locations just waiting to be unlocked by the discerning traveller. This is Brazil’s time. Should it not now be your

over half of the planet’s oxygen while the river,

time for Brazil?

which flows for over 4,200 miles (6,760 kms), pours enough fresh water into the Atlantic on a daily basis to supply the water needs of the UK for over two years. The Northeast of Brazil, with its mix of tropical beaches and culture, is the country’s very own holiday playground. It spreads from Maranhão in the north to Bahia in the south, by way of such popular coastal destinations as São Luiz, Jericoacoara, Fortaleza, Natal, João Pessoa, Olinda, Recife, Porto de Galinhas, Maceió, Praia do Forte, Salvador, Morro de São Paulo, Trancoso and Itacaré. In total, Brazil offers its visitors more than 4,500 miles (7,250 km) of warm, white beaches that go to make up part of the longest continuous coastline of any country in the world.

VBRATA.org

BRAZIL OVERVIEW

Fernando de Noronha, a highly sought after

TRAVEL TIPS Getting to Brazil

Brazil’s main international gateways and domestic hubs are the international airports

BY AIR

in São Paulo (Guarulhos – GRU) and Rio de have smaller airports closer to the city centres

North America and its South American

that are used for the air-shuttle between the

neighbours. There are also an increasing

two cities and a number of other short haul

number of flights and connections across

regional services. They are Congonhas (CGH)

Africa and the Gulf states.

in São Paulo and Santos Dumont (SDU) in Rio.

From the UK the carriers offering direct, non-

Other Brazilian cities with direct flights from

stop flights to Brazil are British Airways and

Europe include Belo Horizonte (CNF), Brasília

TAM Airlines. Other European carriers offering

(BSB), Fortaleza (FOR), Natal (NAT), Recife

connecting flights to Brazil from the UK

(REC) and Salvador (SSA).

include Air Europa, Air France, Alitalia, Ibéria, KLM, LAN, Lufthansa, Swiss and TAP. TAP offers

At immigration non-Brazilians will have

non-stop flights from Europe to more

their passport, visa (if required) and other

destinations in Brazil than any other carrier. It

immigration formalities checked. Like most

is also possible to connect from the UK to Brazil

international airports, the airports in Brazil have

over North America with American Airlines,

separate lines for national passport holders and

Delta and United.

foreign visitors. Foreign passport

VBRATA.org

TRAVEL TIPS

Janeiro (Galeão – GIG). São Paulo and Rio also Brazil is very well connected by air to Europe,

shipping lines between Europe and Brazil.

use certain airports as major hubs for serving

The best time to find a ship on which to travel

regions of the country. In the southeast they

is when they are relocating to Brazil at the

include São Paulo (GRU), and Rio (GIG). Other

end of the European summer season or

hubs include Porto Alegre (POA) and Curitiba

returning to Europe at the end of the Brazilian

(CWB) in the south; Brasília (BSB) in the central

summer season.

west; and Salvador (SSA), Recife (REC) and Fortaleza (FOR) in the northeast.

BY BUS

Other Brazilian airlines include Avianca, Brava, Despite the distances involved, it is possible

Pantanal, Passaredo, Trip and VARIG.

to travel from Brazil to another country by bus. The journey to Buenos Aires from Rio de

AIRPASS

Janeiro, for example, takes 44 hours and covers over 1,800 miles (2,900 km).

If travelling extensively in Brazil it may be

holders should make sure they get their

Reservations should be made in advance

consist of up to nine coupons, each coupon

passports stamped.

through a travel agent or at the relevant bus

being valid for one domestic flight in Brazil

terminal. Immigration formalities take place

in economy class.

Brazil’s international airports offer duty free goods on arrival, normally close to the baggage pick up area, and visitors, on presentation of their passport and ticket, will be allowed to purchase up to US$500 worth of duty free

The cost of the South American Airpass is based on the mileage covered from 1,200 to 8,200

at the respective borders. The Brazil Airpass can only be purchased with

Getting Around In Brazil

a city outside of Brazil, with the destination of

BY AIR

any VBRATA tour operator or airline member.

BY SHIP

BY BUS

any city in Brazil. Full details are available on VBRATA’s website (www.vbrata.org.uk) or from

products, including drink and tobacco.

miles.

an international roundtrip ticket departing from

With over one million miles of roads, there is an extensive domestic bus service in Brazil linking

TRAVEL TIPS

worth purchasing a Brazil Airpass that can

all the main cities. An inexpensive way to view Because of the size of Brazil the most effective,

There is also a South American Airpass that

the country, distances can be considerable.

Although Brazil is one of the main regions of

and at times cost effective way of getting

enables passengers to fly within South America

Fortaleza, the capital of the northeast state

the world for cruising, and Rio is a prime port

around the country is by air. The main national

and covers cities in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil,

of Ceará, for example, is nearly as far from

of call for world cruises, there are no regular

carriers include Azul, Gol and TAM Airlines that

Chile, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela.

Rio de Janeiro, 1,700 miles, as Buenos Aires.

VBRATA.org

Getting Around Town BY CAR / CAR RENTALS

Unless you know a city well it is often better to stick to taxis than rent a car which you may have trouble parking. There is also zero tolerance to drink and drive. Some car rental companies will offer to rent a car and driver.

CITY BUSES

TAXIS

In Brazilian cities you are never very far from a bus or bus stop. There are thousands of them, and because of this the main problem for any

BY TRAIN

visitor is finding which is the right bus to get on and going in which direction, as many routes

With only 17,500 miles of rail track, compared

are circular. Pick the wrong one, and you can

to over one million miles of road, the passenger

end up miles off your intended route.

rail network in Brazil is extremely limited and

TRAVEL TIPS

country. There are, however, a number of scenic routes, including across the Pantanal.

A number of Brazilian cities, most notably

One of the main operators is Serra Verde

São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, have modern

(www.serraverdeexpress.com.br).

metro services. Most have good websites in English and with maps and information about

BY SHIP

the stations such as www.metro.sp.gov.br and

BY CAR

TRAVEL TIPS

METRO

not a viable option for travelling around the

www.metrorio.com.br. As one of the most popular areas in the world

Taxis in Brazil are relatively cheap when

The big international car rental companies

for cruising, it is possible to travel up and down

compared to Europe and easy to find in the

such as Avis and Hertz operate in the major

the Brazilian coast by ship. Besides Rio, popular

major cities. Taxis can be stopped in the street,

Copacabana to Ipanema, the system has

Brazilian cities alongside national and local

ports of call include Manaus, Belém, Fortaleza,

or most cities have a radio taxi fleet that can be

become of much more use to visitors either

companies. The rental agencies accept most

Recife, Salvador and Vitória. In high season it is

booked by phone and will come and pick you up

wanting to get downtown from the beach areas

credit cards but tend to restrict the minimum

also possible to cruise to neighbouring countries

at a pre-booked time. While more expensive,

or to get to the beaches from hotels in Botafogo,

age of the driver to 25. As a visitor all that is

such as Uruguay, Argentina and Chile.

the cars will be larger and air-conditioned.

Flamengo and downtown.

With the extension of the metro in Rio through

required to drive in Brazil is a full valid British or European driving licence. It is preferable to take a licence with a photo. There is zero tolerance to drink and drive. Like the buses, the main restrictions to driving around Brazil are the distances, otherwise the main highways are good and well sign posted. Check with the rental company if the car is restricted to the state you have rented it in, or can be used throughout Brazil.

VBRATA.org

SOUTHEAST For many British visitors, the southeast is the

Rio, which will host the final of 2014 World Cup

natural gateway to Brazil as it is home to the

and the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games,

country’s two busiest international airports and

is both a major cosmopolitan city and

domestic hubs, São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

a tropical resort. As a major city it has all you might expect. First class restaurants,

Few first time visitors to Brazil from the UK

sophisticated night clubs, fashionable bars,

miss the opportunity to visit Rio de Janeiro,

musical extravaganzas, theatres, cinemas,

while São Paulo is by far the most important

museums, art galleries, world class sport,

business and financial centre in South America

designer stores and stylish shopping centres.

executives looking to expand and influence

As a resort, Rio has miles of golden beaches,

their activities in Brazil and the region.

great weather for most of the year, accommodation to appeal to every taste and budget, folklore, typical foods and music,

Rio de Janeiro

sightseeing, and that feeling that you have really travelled.

Whatever the expectations, most visitors find Rio de Janeiro to be more awe-inspiring

None of this takes into account the overall

and vibrant than words, photos or even

beauty of the city that has made Rio globally

videos can do justice.

famous and a much sought after destination.

VBRATA.org

SOUTHEAST

and therefore a natural destination for business

SOUTHEAST

mouth of a great river and called it River of

world’s largest tropical city its beauty, and it is

January, or Rio de Janeiro.

these same topographical features that have dictated how Rio has spread out along the

The beaches are equally well known, from

coast and inland since being discovered by

Copacabana to Ipanema, while in between are

Europeans in the early 16th century.

suburbs whose names are synonymous with the city’s leading football teams, clubs such as Flamengo and Botafogo.

Many of Rio’s attractions have links to the mountains and sea and are household names,

The big football games are still played at the

and not just in Brazil. There is Corcovado Mountain and the Statue of Christ the

Maracanã Stadium which when it opened for the

Redeemer, considered one of the modern seven

1950 World Cup could handle crowds in excess

wonders of the world, from where visitors can

of 200,000. Sixty years on the stadium is still

look down on Sugar Loaf Mountain, another

one of the largest in the world and will host the

global landmark, and the bay of Rio, a bay so

final of the 2014 World Cup and the opening

large that the first explorers assumed it was the

and closing ceremonies of the 2016 Olympics. Rio is also a cultural city. It is the birthplace of both bossa nova and samba, and its musicians remain at the forefront of Brazilian musical trends. The country’s main TV network, Globo, is based in Rio, as are much of the country’s film industry and South America’s main film festival. The city’s carnival is the world’s biggest and most famous, while the celebrations to see in the New Year on Copacabana Beach are one of the most spectacular.

VBRATA.org

SOUTHEAST

It is the mountains and sea that have given the

São Paulo

Taking the size of São Paulo into account is important for any visitor, because if you choose

São Paulo is the business heart of Brazil

a hotel in the wrong part of town you can get

and of South America. The economy of the

stuck in the traffic for hours as you try to cross

state of São Paulo alone is larger than the

the city.

economy of any other South American country, so when the business leaders of São Paulo

Happily São Paulo offers the best, largest

talk, the region listens.

and most diverse selection of hotels in South America, with all the major brands represented

The city is the largest in South America, almost

and spread across the metropolis.

twice the size of Rio, and the fourth largest

2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games

urban centre in the world. With a population

If visiting on business, check with the people

of close to 11 million it is the largest city in the

that you will be meeting and visiting as to

Southern Hemisphere, while the metropolitan

where they are located. Are they located close

area’s population of close to 21 million puts it

to Brooklin Novo or perhaps closer to Cerqueira

on a par with New York and not far behind the

Cesar? Both are home to many of the city’s

entire population of Australia or Scandinavia.

better and more interesting hotels. Paulistas, as natives of the state of São Paulo

Rio de Janeiro is currently preparing not only to host the FIFA World Cup in 2014, but also

In terms of its layout, São Paulo has more

are known, work hard, but they also play hard.

the Olympic and Paralympic Games in August

in common with Los Angeles than New York,

They are aware that their city does not have

and September 2016. Rio de Janeiro is the

in that instead of having one clearly defined

the beauty and charm of neighbouring Rio, but

first South American city to host the Games,

centre or heart, it is a sprawling metropolis with

that does not stop them from using their leisure

and only the third city in the southern

many different centres of activity.

time to the best, especially at night.

hemisphere after Melbourne and Sydney.

SOUTHEAST

It covers an area five times that of Paris.

Currently there is massive investment going into the city’s infrastructure. Everything from transport and sanitation, to the facilities for the 31st Olympic Games themselves, will be built or upgraded over the coming years. Most of the Olympic and Paralympic sports

have the backdrop of Sugar Loaf and

are scheduled to take place in four zones:

Guanabara Bay to compete against, and

Copacabana, Barra, Maracanã and Deodoro.

the rowers the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas and

Maracanã will host the opening and closing

Corcovado. Even the Sambódromo, home to

ceremonies, while the João Havelange Stadium,

the carnival parade, will host the marathon and

the Engenhão, which hosted the Pan American

archery, while Barra da Tijuca will be the site of

Games in 2007, will host the athletics.

the Olympic Village and a number of Olympic facilities, including for golf.

Rio plans to make full use of its natural setting. Copacabana Beach will host the beach volleyball, triathlon and long distance

Rio Olympic Games: 5-21 August 2016 Rio Paralympic Games: 7-18 September 2016

swimming, while the yachtsmen and women

VBRATA.org

SOUTHEAST

Formula 1 Grand Prix, a race that more often

budget, as well as every age group and sexual

than not decides the drivers and manufacturers

persuasion. Bars and clubs abound. The city

championship. As you would expect São Paulo

is popular with clubbers, yet also offers

has a world-class football programme – and

world-class opera and ballet. It is a key stop

football museum – and is home to many of

on most “world tours”, so on almost any given

South America’s most famous and successful

night it will be possible to see a show involving

clubs, including Corinthians, Palmeiras and

leading Brazilian and international acts

São Paulo, as well as Pele’s Santos from the

and artists.

nearby port of the same name. São Paulo will host games during the 2014 World Cup,

São Paulo is a city that prides itself on its

including the opening match.

SOUTHEAST

The city’s nightlife caters for every taste and

gastronomic excellence, offering not only the best of Brazilian cuisine, especially the barbecue houses, but also a truly eclectic mix of restaurants serving dishes from the four corners

The Historical Towns of Minas Gerais

of the globe. For many food critics, São Paulo now boasts the best selection of top restaurants

With Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo as its

in the world.

neighbours, it is all too easy to overlook the state of Minas Gerais.

If the nightlife is unrivalled in Latin America, the same can also be said for the shopping.

The state capital, Belo Horizonte, is a vibrant

Visitors can choose between traditional and

and modern city with a good selection of bars

modern shopping centres, such as Iguatemi,

and restaurants, especially in the Savassi and

Morumbi and Cidade Jardim, or exclusive

Funcionários districts. Rua da Bahia, in the city

boutiques, the most famous of which are

centre, is another good place to enjoy an

found in and around Rua Oscar Freire, the

evening out.

city’s Rodeo Drive. Belo, as it is often called by locals, is the São Paulo also offers world-class museums,

third-biggest conurbation in the Brazilian south

art galleries and sport, including the Brazilian

east and with a metropolitan population of

VBRATA.org

WWW.MINASGERAIS.COM.BR

ONE DESTINATION, ALL THE SENSES. Visiting Minas Gerais means much more than finding a destination: it means the flavours, aromas, landscapes, textures and beauties that transform the state into one of the most important tourist attractions in Brazil. Visit Minas Gerais and get charmed, in every sense.

Online Training for Travel Agents

GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF MINAS GERAIS

Acervo Setes-MG

WWW.MINASONLINETRAINING.CO.UK

5.6 million, Brazil’s third largest city. Laid out in a grid system, the centre of Belo is fairly easy to get around on foot or by public transport. A “planned” city, the area known as Pampulha is often credited with being the early blueprint for the Brazilian capital, Brasília. The driving force for the development of Pampulha in the 1940s was the city’s then mayor, Juscelino Kubitschek. In 1956 he would be sworn in as the country’s president, a president who made the building of Brasília an absolute priority. 2014 World Cup. Belo hosted group games

Kubitschek on Pampulha, would go on to work

during the 1950 World Cup, most famously

on Brasília, most notable Oscar Niemeyer and

England’s 1-0 defeat to the US that effectively

Burle Marx. Pampulha, and Belo in general,

knocked them out of the cup.

is home to many outstanding examples of Niemeyer’s architectural genius.

Belo Horizonte is also one of the gateways to the real treasures of Minas Gerais, the historic

Pampulha is also home to the Mineirão, one of

and colonial towns that sprung up in the

Brazil’s largest football stadiums, which has been

17th century after the discovery of gold and precious stones in the region. Many of the towns have changed little architecturally since being first built, and several are considered by UNESCO to be World Heritage Sites. Towns such as Ouro Preto, Congonhas, Diamantina, Mariana, Tiradentes and São João del Rei. For any traveller with an interest in history or architecture, the historic towns of Minas are a ‘must’ place to visit, especially if visiting neighbouring Rio de Janeiro. There are numerous daily flights from both São Paulo and Rio to Belo Horizonte, or the historic towns are a comfortable drive from Rio, one of the nearest towns, São João del Rei, being just over 200 miles (337 km) away. Accommodation in the historic towns is, as you might expect, mainly in picturesque, historic pousadas, inns and lodges.

VBRATA.org

SOUTHEAST

totally refurbished to host games during the Many of the architects and landscapers used by

FOZ & SOUTH Traditionally the main attraction for visitors

Curitiba; the beaches of Santa Catarina, from

in the south of Brazil, and one of the world's

where whale watching is growing in popularity;

great natural wonders, are the falls at Foz do

and the highlands of Rio Grande do Sul.

Iguaçu (Iguassu Falls) that border Brazil and Argentina. Five times larger than Niagara, the 275 individual falls stretch nearly 2 miles

Foz do Iguaçu

(3 km) across the Iguaçu River. The main fall, the Devil’s Throat, is the largest fall in the

Foz do Iguaçu can easily be reached by plane

world in terms of volume of water per second.

from Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. It is also 600 miles from São Paulo and 900 miles from

the southern states of Rio Grande do Sul, Santa

Rio. A visit to Foz is often combined with tours

Catarina and Paraná are full of contrasts and

that include Rio de Janeiro and the Argentine

surprises. It is the region responsible for Brazil’s

capital, Buenos Aires, which is located a further

fine wines and most of the country’s outstanding

670 miles to the south.

beef. It is also the region where European influences mix with those of the ‘gaúchos’

The falls can be visited at any time of the year

and where, in the 17th century, the Jesuits built

and viewed from both Brazil and Argentina.

their missions alongside the settlements of the

The main Brazilian viewing area is situated in

Guarani Indians. Attractions also include the

a national park that covers an area of more

cities of Porto Alegre, Florianópolis, and

than 656 square miles of sub-tropical rainforest

VBRATA.org

FOZ & SOUTH

possible to take a bus, but it is a drive of over While Foz is the main attraction in the south,

FOZ & SOUTH

plants in the world, enough earth and rock

America at over 2,000 feet deep, four miles in

the largest and best developed city of the

fauna. The falls and park, an attraction in its

was removed from the Paraná River between

length and over a mile wide in places. There is

southern states and the gateway to the

own right, were designated a World Heritage

1970 and 1984 to fill 25 silos the size of the

also the picturesque railway journey that since

mountain resorts of Gramado and Canela.

Site in 1986.

Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. The dam,

1885 has been taken between Curitiba and

which runs five miles across the river from

Paranaguá on the coast, while between July

Both Curitiba and Porto Alegre will be hosting

The only hotel located in the park, and directly

Paraguay to Brazil, can be visited as part of a

and November there is the option to whale

games during the 2014 World Cup. There are

at the falls, is the Hotel das Cataratas, part of

guided tour. There is also a special light show

watch off the coast of Santa Catarina.

the Orient-Express group, the same group that

played out on the surface of the dam every

operates the Copacabana Palace in Rio.

Friday and Saturday night.

Foz do Iguaçu also offers visitors the chance to

The Southern States

see one of man’s greatest engineering feats, the

also the mystical rock formations at Vila Velha that have been carved over 350 million years

The south is home to Blumenau, with its

by the rain and wind.

distinct Bavarian architecture and Germanic influences, including its own Oktoberfest;

Unlike Rio de Janeiro, the south of Brazil has

Curitiba, a town considered by urban planners

four distinct seasons including a real winter

Itaipu Dam. To make room for the dam, and

Besides Foz attractions in the south include the

to be near perfect in its concept; Florianópolis

when, between July and August, the

what is one of the most powerful hydroelectric

Itaimbezinho Canyon, the largest in Latin

and its outstanding beaches; and Porto Alegre,

temperatures dip noticeably.

VBRATA.org

FOZ & SOUTH

that houses an immense diversity of flora and

CENTRAL WEST The centre and heart of Brazil has more

its daring, original and modernist architecture

to attract the visitor than might appear

and innovative urban planning.

obvious at first glance. Highlights include the architectural icon that is the nation’s capital,

It was President Juscelino Kubitschek, Brazil’s

Brasília, and further west one of the planet’s

21st, that made Brasília a reality. If John

great collections of flora and fauna, an area

Kennedy wanted to put a man on the moon,

known as the Pantanal.

Kubitschek was determined to build Brasília

Brasília: Capital for the Future

ahead to start construction as soon as he took office in 1956. By 21 April 1960 he was able to inaugurate the city with US President Eisenhower at his side.

It is Brasília – and not Rio de Janeiro – that is the capital of Brazil. A purpose built city constructed

The diplomatic as well as the political

in the heart of Brazil to be the capital of the new

community also had to transfer from

Brazil, the country of the future.

Rio de Janeiro to Brasília, and that gave many foreign governments the opportunity to build

50 years on from its inauguration, Brasília is a

modern new embassies that reflected the spirit

UNESCO World Heritage Site that is famous for

of their countries.

VBRATA.org

CENTRAL WEST

as the nation’s new capital and gave the go

Brasília’s unique layout is often compared

shaped National Theatre (Teatro Nacional)

to an airplane, a bird in flight, or a bow and

is also a striking building. Its auditoriums are

arrow. If a plane, the principal government

used for a wide range of cultural events;

and public buildings are found along its

including concerts by the city’s own

‘fuselage’, while the ‘wings’ contain the

symphony orchestra.

bars, restaurants and hotels. A good vantage

Due to Brasília’s strategic location, it is relatively

point to view Brasília from is the observation

easy for people touring Brazil to visit, if only for

deck of the TV and Digital TV towers.

a 24-hour stop over. Most non-tourist visitors go to Brasília for meetings with the Brazilian

Running through the ‘fuselage’ is the

government. All three powers of the republic

‘Monumental Axis’ (Eixo Monumental), which

are based here, parliament, judiciary and

is lined by the most important government

presidency. Because of the working nature of

buildings including the huge Palácio do

Brasília, tourists will often find hotel rates are

Itamaraty that houses Brazil’s foreign ministry.

considerably cheaper from Friday to Monday.

The nose of the fuselage is home to the Houses of Parliament (Congresso Nacional) and the

Located in the heart of Brazil, Brasília has

office of the president (Palácio do Planalto).

excellent flight connections to Rio and São Paulo, as well as the key cities in the

Outstanding architectural features include

Northeast. Flights between Rio, São Paulo and

one of architect Oscar Niemeyer’s most famous

Manaus (the main gateway to the Amazon)

creations, the Congresso Nacional, a building

often stop in Brasília. There are also frequent

that consists of two 28-story-high towers

flights to Cuiabá, one of the gateways to the

flanked by the futuristic dome of the Senate

Pantanal, while close by is the spectacular

and the ‘saucer’ of the Chamber of Deputies.

Chapada dos Veadeiros national park. Both

It is possible to arrange guided tours of the

Brasília and Cuiabá will host games during

Congresso Nacional, the Palácio do Planalto

the 2014 World Cup.

and Palácio do Itamaraty, and to watch parliamentary debates from the public gallery.

Brasília is also considered a major centre of

The Metropolitan Cathedral designed

located on the outskirts of the city and in the

to resemble a crown of thorns is another

neighbouring state of Goiás. These attract

Niemeyer masterpiece. The city’s pyramid-

followers from around the globe.

spiritualism with many spiritual communities

VBRATA.org

CENTRAL WEST

residential areas along with many of the city’s

recede, and while the land-based wildlife has more space to spread, the fish and other water born species find themselves corralled in lagoons. Large quantities of over 250 species of fish have been catalogued in the rivers and waters of the Pantanal and are a major attraction for fishermen. Because of the changing landscape there is debate, even in Brazil, of when it is best to visit the Pantanal. The most popular period for bird watching is June to September, but for those looking for wildlife there is a good reason to go in the rainy season when it is only possible to reach many of the lodges by boat or small plane.

Ramblers head to the west of Cuiabá, to the

Located in the geographical heart of South

Chapada dos Guimarães, the canyon and

America, the Pantanal stretches across the states

national park that are the geographic centre

Until recently the area known as the Pantanal

of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul and

of South America.

has been relatively unknown outside of Brazil,

west into both Bolivia and Paraguay, it covers

but thanks to the improvements in access

an area of 75,000 square miles (195,000 sq

The area around Bonito in the southern

and the accommodation on offer, the region

km), making it the world’s largest wetlands.

Pantanal is also considered an attraction in

is now being discovered by more adventurous

Cuiabá in the north and Campo Grande and

its own right, with its abundance of waterfalls,

travellers with an interest in nature.

Corumbá in the south are the main gateways

caves and crystal clear waters that appeal to

to the region.

divers and snorkelers who can explore this natural aquarium in person. Another new

Covering an area nearly the size of the

attraction is the Trem do Pantanal, a train

United Kingdom, the Pantanal, is made up of

service which in seven hours crosses part of

a collection of ecosystems that house one of

the southern Pantanal from Campo Grande

the planet’s greatest variety of flora and fauna,

to Miranda, via Aquidauana.

CENTRAL WEST

Pantanal

including an immense diversity of bird and wildlife. It is thought to have the greatest concentration of animals in the Western Hemisphere and UNESCO has designated parts of the Pantanal as a World Heritage Centre. Due to its more open vegetation, it is often easier to view wildlife and birdlife in the Pantanal than in the more dense vegetation of the Amazon region. During the rainy season, which runs from November through April, the animals and other wildlife take shelter on the higher ground as the waters rise and flood up to 80% of the plains. In May the waters start to

VBRATA.org

AMAZON & NORTH Just about everyone on the planet has heard of the mighty Amazon River, a river that flows for over 4,200 miles (6,760 km) through the heart of the tropical rainforest and region that we know simply as the Amazon. It is a river that pours enough fresh water out into the Atlantic Ocean on a daily basis to supply the entire water needs of the United Kingdom for nearly two years. It is the region to go

Over 60% of the Amazon rainforest is in Brazil and it covers nearly half of the Brazilian

species, including an estimated 1,800 species

territory. It is responsible for supplying over half

of birds, 250 different mammals and a similar

of the planet’s oxygen and for hosting a tenth

diversity of animal and insect life. The river itself

of the world’s 10 million living species and over

is home to an estimated 2,000 different types

30 per cent of all known plant and animal

of fish. The Amazon is also home to Brazil’s

VBRATA.org

AMAZON & NORTH

to if you are in any way interested in superlatives when it comes to statistics.

highest point, the 9,888 ft (3,014 m) Pico da Neblina in the state of Roraima. For all of that, the Amazon, one of Brazil’s most iconic destinations, still remains relatively uncharted and untouched. It is a place where new discoveries are still being made on a regular basis. Belém, the capital of the state of Pará, is one gateway to the Amazon and is located just 60 miles (100 km) from the Atlantic Ocean. It is a good starting point from which to visit the island of Marajó, an island the size of Switzerland that is the largest island in the

which sits almost directly on the equator, is

Many of the trappings from that period,

possible to cruise all the way up to Tabatinga

known for its large herds of water buffalo.

including the Teatro Amazonas, can still be

on the Brazilian border with Peru and Colombia

seen and admired throughout a city that was

and on to Iquitos in Peru, some 2,310 miles

considered to be the “Paris of the jungle.”

(3,700 km) from the Atlantic.

Such is the size of the Amazon River that

The Amazon’s main folkloric festivity, the

although it is located over 1,000 miles

Boi-Bumbá, the Amazon’s answer to Rio’s

(1,600 km) from the Atlantic, Manaus is still

carnival, takes place every year on the last

a regular port of call for the world’s largest

weekend of June at Parintins, an island in the

cruise ships that also stop along the way at

middle of the Amazon River, one day’s cruise

Belém and Santarém. In smaller boats it is

downstream from Manaus.

The most famous gateway to the Amazon is

the world and during the rubber boom –

the city of Manaus. A city known for its opera

between 1890 and 1920 – was responsible for

house, it was once one of the richest cities in

nearly all the rubber produced in the world.

VBRATA.org

AMAZON & NORTH

world to be surrounded by freshwater. As well as its lush vegetation and birdlife the island,

Brazil’s tropical playground is an area known

deluxe resort properties and brand hotels,

as the northeast that encompasses nine states

through luxury privately owned boutique hotels

that between them cover an area larger than

and pousadas, all the way to a simple hammock

the UK, Germany, France and Italy combined.

slung on the veranda of a fisherman’s hut.

The northeast, all of which is located in the

There is a lot to see and experience in

Tropics, is a paradise for travellers in search of

Brazil’s northeast. Beautiful tropical beaches

perfect beaches, equally perfect weather and

are a given, and spread over 2,000 miles

dramatic landscapes, all touched by culture,

(3,200 km) from the south of Bahia to the

history, culinary delights and folklore. It is also

north of Ceará by way of Sergipe, Alagoas,

the closest part of Brazil to Europe, closer than

Pernambuco, Paraíba and Rio Grande do

even the Caribbean thanks to direct flights.

Norte. Along the coast, visitors will come across beautifully preserved colonial towns

The development of the northeast has been

and cities – many of them UNESCO World

rapid for tourism, and investment in the past

Heritage sites - that have developed and grown

decade has resulted in greatly improved

since the first Europeans landed in Brazil and

access to the region by both air and road.

Bahia in 1500. Towns such as Porto Seguro,

The accommodation now ranges from modern

Salvador, Marechal Deodoro, Olinda, Recife,

VBRATA.org

NORTHEAST

Europeans first landed in Brazil on 23 April 1500 at a spot close to what today is the town of Porto Seguro in the south of Bahia. They were the first Europeans to land in Brazil and were greeted by the native Amerindians. In 1549 the city of Salvador was founded by the Portuguese around a triangular peninsula that separates the Bay of All Saints (Baia de Todos os Santos) from the Atlantic. It was the first João Pessoa (located close to the easternmost

nearly 30 miles (50 km) and is dotted with

colonial capital of Brazil, and is one of the

point of the Americas), Natal, Fortaleza, and

thousands of crystal clear lakes. There is also

oldest cities in the New World. It retained its

São Luís.

the archipelagos of Fernando de Noronha,

position as capital until 1763 when the title

an ecological reserve belonging to the state

transferred to Rio de Janeiro.

of Pernambuco, and Abrolhos, off the southern

flavours and vibrant colours. Music, dance,

tip of Bahia, that are considered among the

For many years Salvador was the most

folklore, religion and regional culinary pleasures

best dive sites in the world.

important seaport in the southern hemisphere

mansions and churches have been restored to

and a major centre for the sugar industry and

their former glory. The entire area is considered

Four cities in the northeast have been chosen

the slave trade. It is the slave trade that has

to be a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

to host games during the 2014 World Cup.

given Bahia and Salvador its African flavour.

They are Salvador, Recife, Natal and Fortaleza.

NORTHEAST

all abound, with as many different delicacies on offer as there are states and accents. The region has some of Brazil’s most dramatic

Over 80% of the current population of the city

Away from Salvador popular tourist destinations

scenery that includes the Chapada Diamantina

is estimated to be able trace its ancestry back

along the coast to the south include Porto

in the interior of Bahia; the São Francisco River,

to Africa. No surprise, therefore, that those

Seguro, Arraial d’Ajuda, Trancoso, Itacaré,

African influences can be found in the region’s

Itaparica and Morro de São Paulo. To the north

cuisine, music, dance, dress, arts and crafts,

is Praia do Forte and Costa do Sauípe, to name

and even religion.

just a few.

which cuts across the states of Bahia,

Salvador

Pernambuco, Alagoas and Sergipe; the picture postcard beauty of Jericoacoara Beach in Ceará;

Salvador and the state of Bahia are the

Piauí’s Serra da Capivara, the oldest

European birthplace of Brazil, and also the

archaeological site in the Americas; the Valley

region where Brazil’s links to Africa are most

of the Dinosaurs in Paraíba, with its clearly

prominent. Today Salvador is the fifth largest

of the interior, most notably the Chapada

visible dinosaur tracks; and the breathtaking

metropolitan area in Brazil, with a population

Diamantina that offers many trails through

Lençóis Maranhenses of Maranhão, a great

of 4.8 million, and the ninth most populous

spectacular unspoilt scenery. The village of

desert spread like an immense bed sheet which

city in Latin America, Bahia, by itself, is the

Lençóis, 250 miles (400 km) inland from

rolls back inland from the Atlantic coast for

size of France.

Salvador, is considered the best base for

NORTHEAST

The northeast is also synonymous with exotic

No less spectacular are the national parks

trekkers interested in exploring the natural beauty of the Chapada.

Pernambuco’s Reef In Portuguese the word “recife” means

The historical centre of Salvador contains an

“reef”, and it is the reefs that sit off the coast of

abundance of buildings and churches that

Pernambuco that have helped make its beaches

date from the 17th to the 19th century.

so special, the reefs breaking up the waves

At its heart is the Pelourinho where colonial

rolling in from the Southern Atlantic Ocean.

VBRATA.org

ceramic figures, and Novo Jerusalem where the Passion of Christ is performed each Easter week. One of Pernambuco’s most famous destinations is actually located in the Atlantic Ocean, 220 miles (354 km) off the Brazilian coast. It is an unspoilt archipelago known as Fernando de Noronha. The main island, which makes up 91% of the total landmass, is just six miles long and 2 miles wide and has a population of 2,000. As well as its outstanding beaches and laidback lifestyle, Fernando de Noronha offers the best diving in Brazil. The diversity of the different species of sea life and the unique accumulation of dolphins lead and charm that is reflected in its many bars and

including the popular Praia de Boa Viagem.

restaurants.

Recife and neighbouring Olinda boast a fine

Other popular areas along the coast of

collection of colonial buildings and churches

Pernambuco include Tamandaré, Itamaracá

dating from the 16th and 17th century. Olinda,

and, for surfers, Maracaípe. Inland the main

Natal was founded on Christmas Day 1599 and

Many of the attractions of Natal are outside

one of Brazil’s best-preserved colonial centres,

attraction is Caruaru, famous for the region’s

first christened Santiago, it was later renamed

the city. 50 miles to the south is Pipa. Pipa is

is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage

‘Natal’, which is Portuguese for Christmas.

a laidback, relaxed beach resort that is also an

Site. Olinda’s carnival celebrations, along with

It was also briefly called New Amsterdam after

ecological reserve. It is made up of a number

those of Recife, are amongst Brazil’s most

the Dutch occupied it in 1633. The city’s most

of attractive beaches, including Praia de Amor,

popular and are driven by the region’s

famous landmark is the star-shaped Forte dos

which is known for its dolphins. Also popular

signature frevo beat.

Reis Magos (Three Kings Fort), while the city’s

is the more peaceful Tibau de Sul.

Heritage Site in 2001.

Natal

NORTHEAST

UNESCO to declare the islands a World This includes the beaches of Recife itself,

most popular beach, with a wide variety of Like Salvador, Recife grew and was influenced

hotels, bars and restaurants, is Ponta Negra.

by its residential mix of Portuguese settlers,

Between Pipa and Natal is what is known as Barreira do Inferno, Brazil’s space centre and

Amerindians and African slaves. The city

The city became a major US and Allied base

also reflects the influence of the Dutch settlers

during World War II, and was used as the major

who invaded and controlled Recife and

hub for shipping supplies from the US across

Attractions to the north of Natal include the

Olinda from 1630 to 1654. During this period

the Atlantic to Africa and up into Europe, or

famous giant sand dunes at Praia do Genipabu

the city was considered one of the world’s

other areas of conflict. Many ex-servicemen

that attract visitors who explore and play

most cosmopolitan.

have fond memories of their time in Natal.

amongst the massive dunes in beach buggies.

rocket launch pad.

Close to Recife are some of the most popular beach resorts in Brazil. 50 miles (83 kms) to the south is Porto de Galinhas where it is possible to visit the reef and swim in natural tidal pools teaming with exotic tropical fish. The village of Porto de Galinhas has character

VBRATA.org

major Brazilian cities to Europe, and flight time between Lisbon and Fortaleza is around seven hours. To understand the size of Brazil, that is not much longer than the flight time between Porto Alegre in the south of Brazil and Fortaleza. Two of the most popular destinations in Cearรก for European visitors are Canoa Quebrada and Jericoacoara. Canoa Quebrada, located 113 miles (182 km) east of Fortaleza, was once a sleepy fishing village, but is now better known for its bohemian lifestyle and laidback bar and restaurant scene. Buggy tours are a popular option and take visitors along the relatively deserted beaches to hidden away bars and

giant dunes backed by red sandstone cliffs.

With a coastline of over 350 miles (570 km)

A trip to Jericoacoara is an adventure in its own

of mostly-unspoilt sandy beaches Cearรก, and

right as the village is not accessible by normal

especially the coastal region close to Fortaleza,

vehicles, at least not the final part across the

have been a popular holiday destination for

dunes where buggies and 4x4 vehicles have to

Brazilians for a number of years.

be used. The village, located over 186 miles (300 km) west of Fortaleza, is basically a few sand

Fortaleza is the seventh most populous

streets lined by simple houses. Accommodation

metropolitan area in Brazil with nearly

is either truly rustic or sophisticated charm, and

3.6 million inhabitants. It is the closest of the

the same is true of the bars and restaurants.

VBRATA.org

NORTHEAST

Fortaleza

Discover Maranhão – a unique destination in Brazil

Lençóis Maranhenses

Bumba Meu Boi Festivity

Chapada das Mesas

São Luis Historical Centre

A-Z OF BRAZIL Accommodation

TRAVEL AGENTS Become a Brazil Travel Specialist! Brazil Online Training is the travel industry FREE online training platform for Brazil, providing a selection of training courses for Brazilian destinations, travel industry service providers and suppliers specialising in Brazil.

Brazil Online Training is the perfect interactive tool to help Travel Industry Professionals increase their knowledge and sales confidence, ensuring they can sell Brazilian destinations and products more effectively!

Brazil offers an excellent and diverse selection of accommodation. The larger cities have a good offering of hotels that include everything from budget brands to deluxe international properties, from privately owned boutique properties to youth hostels. Tourist areas by the coast have the option of large, sophisticated, all-inclusive resort

A-Z OF BRAZIL

properties belonging to internationally known brands, Brazilian and international chain hotels, as well as the smaller, privately owned establishments, known as ‘pousadas’, that may only have two or three rooms or as many as 50 or more, and be either very simple and rustic, or super sophisticated. International brands operating in Brazil include Accor, Golden Tulip, Grand Hyatt, Hilton, Iberostar, Ibis, Inter-Continental, Marriott,

Price in Brazil is normally the best indication

Mercure, Novotel, Orient-Express, Pestana,

to the degree of comfort you can expect, the

Sofitel, Sol Meliá, Starwood and SuperClubs,

facilities that go with it, and the location. Most

while Brazilian hoteliers include Atlântica,

properties, including the smallest pousadas, will

Blue Tree, Fasano, Othon, Transamérica,

probably have a web site with a good selection

Tropical and Windsor, to name just a few.

of images.

Area Brazil is the world’s fifth largest nation in terms of area, covering 3.3 million square miles (8.5

Brazil Online Training awards downloadable online certificates, on successful completion of the course exams, to enhance the participants personal qualification portfolio by becoming a “Specialist in Brazil”.

million square km). Brazil is larger than the European continent, continental USA and Australia. It borders every South America nation, except Chile and Ecuador, and has

www.BrazilOT.com Powered by

a coastline of 4,500 miles (7,250 km).

VBRATA.org

Boating & Yachting

Brazilian Tourist Information

Business Hours BANKS

consumer market and 400 of the world's 500

Brazilians have always been at one

Tourist Information for Brazil can be obtained

Monday to Friday, 10am-4pm.

biggest companies operate in the country.

with the sea and yachting is a popular

online at the following: OFFICES

Individuals or companies looking to do business

With a coastline of 4,500 miles (7,250 km),

pastime, and a sport that the country

£3.2 billion. Brazil is the world's fifth biggest

has excelled at competitively, including

VBRATA – VISIT BRAZIL TRAVEL ASSOCIATION

at Olympic level.

Web: www.vbrata.org.uk

It is possible to charter all type and size

EMBASSY OF BRAZIL TOURIST OFFICE

Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm.

of yachts in Brazil and the starting point,

Web: www.brazil.org.uk

Saturdays, 9am-1pm.

marina. The Marina da Gloria in Rio will

BRAZILIAN TOURIST BOARD (EMBRATUR)

SHOPPING CENTRES

London

act as the focal point for the yachting

Web: www.visitbrasil.com

Monday to Saturday, 10am-10pm. The largest

SW1H 0ET

shopping centres, such as Barra Shopping and

Tel: 020 7215 5000

Rio Sul in Rio de Janeiro, and Morumbi

Web: www.ukti.gov.uk

Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm.

at the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic

UK Trade & Investment

British Embassy & Consulates in Brazil

Shopping in São Paulo, also open on Sunday from 3pm-9pm. SUPERMARKETS

Carnival & Celebrations

The British Embassy in Brazil is based in the

Monday to Saturday, 8am-10pm. A limited

capital, Brasília. Britain’s main consulates that

number open on Sundays or are open 24

Carnival is an annual celebration that

The Brazilian Embassy in London handles

support the Embassy are located in São Paulo

hours.

embraces the entire country, even a business

all diplomatic, political, economic,

and Rio de Janeiro.

centre like São Paulo. The celebrations have far PETROL STATIONS

more impact on Brazil and its economy than

BRITISH EMBASSY

Petrol stations are allowed to operate 24 hours

the Christmas and New Year holidays. Most

EMBASSY OF BRAZIL

Setor de Embaixadas Sul

a day, although not all do so.

offices and businesses will close for the week

14-16 Cockspur Street

Quadra 801, Lote 8

London SW1Y 5BL

Brasília, DF 70408-900

commercial and cultural issues.

Tel: 020 7747 4500

Tel: (55) 61 3329 2300 Fax: (55) 61 3329 2369

Email: info.london@itamaraty.gov.br

Web: www.ukinbrazil.fco.gov.uk

Web: www.brazil.org.uk BRITISH CONSULATE GENERAL SÃO PAULO

For information about visas, vaccinations,

Rua Ferreira de Araújo, 741

weddings, etc, the Brazilian Consulate

São Paulo, 05428-002

General in London should be contacted.

A-Z OF BRAZIL

Brazilian Embassy & Consulates in the UK

or UK Trade & Investment.

1 Victoria Street

as in Rio de Janeiro, is normally the city’s

Games.

with Brazil should contact the Commercial Section of the Brazilian Embassy in London

STORES

A-Z OF BRAZIL

between Brazil and the UK worth over

of Carnival.

Business Contacts

Carnival is a moveable feast that is tied to the Roman Catholic calendar. Carnival takes

Brazil is the UK's most important trading

place from the Friday prior to Ash Wednesday

partner in Latin America, with bilateral trade

and continues up to and including Ash

Tel: (55) 11 3094 2700 Fax: (55) 11 3094 2717 E-mail: saopaulo@gra-bretanha.org.br

BRAZILIAN CONSULATE GENERAL

3 Vere Street

BRITISH CONSULATE GENERAL

London W1G 0DH

RIO DE JANEIRO

Tel: 020 7659 1550

Praia do Flamengo, 284 (2nd Floor)

Fax: 020 7659 1554

Flamengo, Rio de Janeiro, 22210-030

Email: assist.cglondres@itamaraty.gov.br

Tel: (55) 21 2555 9600 Fax: (55) 21 2555 9671

Web: www.cglondres.itamaraty.gov.br

E-mail: bcg.rj@fco.gov.uk

VBRATA.org

Carnival Dates

similar to parts of Europe, with even frosts occurring in the winter months (July-August).

Upcoming dates for Carnival

Summers are hot.

(Friday-Wednesday) are: In Brazil the seasons are the reverse of those in 28 February – 5 March 2014;

Europe and the US:

13-18 February 2015; 5-10 February 2016;

Spring: 22 September to 21 December

24 February – 1 March 2017;

Summer: 22 December to 21 March

9-14 February 2018;

Autumn: 22 March to 21 June

1-6 March 2019;

Winter: 22 June to 21 September

21-26 February 2020;

Conferences, Conventions & Exhibitions

12-17 February 2021; 25 February – 2 March 2022;

Children

Brazil is one of the most popular locations for large exhibitions and conferences and many

Like many Latin countries, Brazil is very child

of the cities have the infrastructure to host major events.

Wednesday itself. In some cities and towns

the year in Brazil. Highlights include the

friendly so expect to find children in restaurants

the celebrations take over the entire week and

Festa do Divino held just before Pentecost

and bars being fussed over by waiters, and out

the following weekend.

Sunday (late May or early June); the June

late. Facilities for children throughout the

The country has an extensive network of

festivals (Festa Junina) linked to the feasts

country are normally very good.

convention and visitor bureaus that can help

Rio de Janeiro is the most famous and the largest

of saints John, Anthony, and Peter; Nossa

of Brazil’s carnival celebrations, but there are

Senhora de Aparecida, on October 12, which

equally impressive carnival activities in Salvador,

is also a national holiday; October also sees

Recife and Olinda. In Rio the focus is on samba

the festival of Círio de Nazaré in the city of

and the parade of the samba schools organised

Belém, at the mouth of the Amazon.

you or a tour operator in the organisation of conventions, exhibitions, incentive programmes

Climate

and meetings.

90% of Brazil sits within the tropics, although more than 60% of the population live in areas

by the League of Samba Schools on the Sunday

Disabled Travellers

and Monday evenings; in Salvador the focus is

The Amazon also has its own carnival, the

where altitude, sea breezes, or polar fronts

on the Trio Electricos and the Axé bands that

Boi Bumba, which takes place over the last

cool the temperature. Cities such as São Paulo,

Brazil has been making steady progress in

parade through the city; while in Recife and

weekend in June in Parintins, a town 250 miles

Brasília and Belo Horizonte have milder climates

improving accessibility for disabled travellers,

Olinda the driving beat comes from frevo,

downstream from Manaus.

averaging just 19°C (66°F).

but there is still a way to go. Major improvements

Another major spectacular is seeing in the New

More northerly coastal cities such Rio de Janeiro,

host the Paralympic Games in 2016.

Wherever you stay in Brazil during carnival,

Year on Rio’s Copacabana Beach. You will be

Salvador, Recife and Natal have a warmer

you won’t be far from music and a carnival

one of around 3 million people on the beach,

climate that is balanced by the Trade Winds.

party. Tickets for most major carnival activities

the vast majority dressed in white. Hotel

can be reserved in advance through the better

beachfront rooms are, not surprisingly, at a

Rio, for example, has an average temperature

tour operators in the UK.

premium at this time. While Rio and the rest

of around 26°C (80°F) which will climb into

Distances in Brazil (see chart on inside back

of Brazil are honouring Iemanjá, the Queen

the high 30s-low 40s (over 100°F) during the

cover) can be considerable and on road signs

Carnival is just one of the many celebrations

of the Sea, Salvador celebrates the festival of

summer months. In the southern Brazilian cities

will be given in kilometres. One mile is

and festivities that take place throughout

Bom Jesus dos Navegantes.

of Porto Alegre and Curitiba, the climate is

equivalent to 1.62 kilometres.

maracatu and other traditional rhythms.

A-Z OF BRAZIL

17-22 February 2023.

will be seen in Rio de Janeiro as it prepares to

VBRATA.org

Distances

VBRATA.org

Dress

Electrical Current

Brazilians dress casually outside the office,

The current in Rio and São Paulo is normally

even in the major cities. No restaurant insists

127 volts (60 cycles), but many of the larger

on collar and tie, although the occasional club

hotels offer 220 volts. If there is any doubt,

may. Collar and tie still predominate in more

check with the front desk of the hotel or the

formal office and business surroundings in

owner of the house or apartment. Not all of

São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Brasília.

Brazil is 127 volts, Recife and Brasília, for

as popular and influential as the major international acts, many of which will include shows in Brazil as part of a world tour.

example, are 220 volts.

Drink Brazil produces or imports most of the major international brands of spirit. Brazilian beer is

Golf

a light lager that is served in draught form

The entertainment and nightlife scene in Brazil

The Brazilian coast has many good dive

(chopp) or bottled. Soft drinks are equally

is wide and varied and rarely disappoints.

sites. Among the most highly rated are the

popular including Brazil’s own Guaraná.

São Paulo makes up for the lack of a beach with

Golf, which will be an Olympic sport in 2016,

archipelago of Fernando de Noronha; the coast

Brazil is, of course, the world’s largest coffee

what is considered to be one of the planet’s

is growing in popularity in Brazil, and the

of Pernambuco, around Recife; and the marine

producer. Caipirinha is Brazil’s national cocktail,

best and most eclectic nightlife scenes. From

increasing number of golf courses opening,

park of Abrolhos off the southern coast of the

made normally from cachaça, sugar and lime.

bars to clubs, theatre to musical extravaganzas,

especially those linked to resort hotels in the

state of Bahia. Equipment for diving can

Cachaça is distilled and fermented from

São Paulo has it all.

northeast, reflects that. The Olympic course is

normally be rented locally.

crushed sugar cane. Caipirinhas can also be based on rum or vodka.

There is also the challenge of snorkelling in the

now being built. The Brazilian music scene covers an immense spectrum of styles and rhythms from the

crystal clear waters of the rivers around Bonito

The legal age to purchase an alcoholic drink

better-known samba and bossa nova, through

in the interior state of Mato Grosso do Sul, in

in Brazil is 18. There is zero tolerance to

to choro, forró, frevo, maracatu, MPB, and even

the Pantanal.

drink and drive.

Guide Books & Maps

Brazilian country and western, rock and heavy

All the major guidebook series publish a guide

metal. Locations to enjoy music range from

to Brazil. Many also produce a separate guide

corner bars to concert halls; from street corners

for Rio de Janeiro. A selection of books and

to massive outdoor festivals. Local music

guides about Brazil can be found in most

dominates the radio and the local stars are

good book stores in the UK. If not, they can

A-Z OF BRAZIL

Diving

Entertainment and Nightlife

be ordered over the Internet at sites such as www.amazon.co.uk, www.waterstones.com or www.stanfords.co.uk.

Health & Insurance Brazil has a very good network of private hospitals and clinics in all the major metropolitan areas. Private medical care is expensive in Brazil so all visitors are advised to take out medical and travel insurance prior to their arrival.

VBRATA.org

Internet

currencies, such as British pounds. There is an

with 21 million residents, and Rio de Janeiro

extensive network of ATMs throughout Brazil at

second with just over 12 million.

The internet is extremely well developed in

which visitors can use their cash or credit cards

Brazil and most hotels will have access to the

to withdraw reais. Not all ATMs are linked to

web and there are cyber-cafes in many of the

the international banking system, so you may

main shopping centres. As in Europe, many

need to try several in a bank to the find the

shopping centres, hotels and cafes offer free

one that is linked.

The postal service in Brazil is efficient but at least a week or more should be allowed for

Wi-Fi access.

postcards and letters mailed back to the UK.

The most widely accepted credit cards are MasterCard, Visa and American Express.

Language

The majority of the major banks are Brazilian, but many foreign banks have an agreement

Public Holidays

with one or more of the major players.

The language of Brazil is Portuguese. Spanish and English are the most widely understood

As well national public holidays visitors can

and used foreign languages.

be taken by surprise that individual states and

Media

Money, Banks, ATMs & Credit Cards

There are no locally published English-

The Brazilian monetary unit is the real, (plural,

(Carnival); Good Friday; 21 April (Tiradentes);

language newspapers in Brazil and due

reais). There are 100 centavos (C) to the real

1 May (Labour Day); Corpus Christi;

to the impact of the internet, fewer foreign

(R$). The official exchange rate is published

7 September (Independence Day); 12 October

newspapers and periodicals are imported.

daily in the newspapers or on line.

(Our Lady of Aparecida); 2 November (All Souls

cities also have their own separate holidays. National Holidays include: 1 January (New Year’s Day); February/March

Hotels have satellite or cable television offering

Day); 15 November (Proclamation of the

original language programming from the US

The US dollar and the Euro are the most widely

and Europe and the main news channels, such

accepted foreign currencies and in the main

as the BBC, CNN, etc.

cities there is little problem in changing other

Museums & Galleries Brazil has a number of world-class galleries and museums, most notably in São Paulo and Rio

Republic); 25 December (Christmas Day).

A-Z OF BRAZIL

Postal Service

Restaurants and Eating Out

de Janeiro. The most interesting to the visitor will probably be those that touch on Brazilian

Eating out is very often the main focus of the

subjects and artists. A list of the best will be

evening in Brazil. The country offers a diversity

found in most good guidebooks. Many galleries

of culinary flavours and influences including

and museums choose not to open on Monday.

a wide variety of regional styles, most notably those of Bahia and Minas Gerais.

Population Brazil has a population of approximately 193 million, which represents 2.8% of the world’s population and makes it the world’s fifth most populous nation. There are 23 metropolitan areas in the country with a population of over one million, of which São Paulo is the largest

VBRATA.org

where Roman Catholicism and Pentecostal churches dominate.

Safety & Security Brazil for the most part is no more dangerous than anywhere in Europe or North America. Violent crimes against tourists are rare, hence the headlines if and when they do happen. Brazil is politically stable with no natural

There is also a clear influence in the cuisine from Brazilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s earliest discoverers, the Portuguese. Other immigrants have also left

enemies and no terrorist activities. Being

that are found in all Brazilian cities and larger

population, most national sports are played

sensible and streetwise can often be the key

towns. Many of the centres are amongst the

somewhere in Brazil, even rugby and cricket.

to a trouble-free and enjoyable stay.

largest in Latin America and boast hundreds of

Shopping

stores under one roof as well as entertainment centres and food courts.

Sport (Spectator)

Dutch, and more recently the Italians, Germans

Shopping is a very popular pastime in Brazil and

and Japanese. The slaves shipped to Brazil

the option in most cities is between window

Brazilians are as keen to watch sport as they

from West African also had a major impact,

shopping in the boutiques that line the streets

especially on the cuisine of the northeast.

in the main commercial areas or heading for

Cigarettes and cigars are widely available in

in 2014 and the Olympic and Paralympic

the many modern shopping centres and malls

Brazil, but like Europe the laws as to where and

Games in 2016.

Smoking

are about taking part, one of the reasons the country will host both the World Cup

Restaurants vary from simple stand up bars,

when people can smoke are always changing

to the most sophisticated luxury. At all price

and becoming more stringent. Smoking is

The main spectator sport is football and any

ranges, it is difficult to eat badly in Brazil.

forbidden in all enclosed spaces, such as

visitor to Brazil will never be far from a major

shopping centres, cinemas, banks,

game or stadium. The main clubs play in

Religion Brazil is open and tolerant to all religions

A-Z OF BRAZIL

their mark, including the French, Spanish and

supermarkets, schools, etc.

Sport (Participant)

and since 1889 has had no official religion. Houses of worship of every denomination

Tennis, sailing, fishing, horse riding, jogging,

can be found in the major cities, but may be

cycling and trekking are all popular throughout

harder to find in smaller towns and villages

Brazil, as are the more extreme sports of white water rafting, surfing, hang-gliding, paragliding and skydiving. Scuba diving is also popular (see diving). Team sports include football, basketball and volleyball, volleyball being especially popular on the beaches in one version or another. Indoors sports include billiards, pool and snooker, squash, tenpin bowling and even darts. Due to the diversity of the immigrant

VBRATA.org

time” runs from October until mid-February. During this period, clocks in Brazil go forward one hour in most of the southeast. The actual time difference between most of Brazil and the UK therefore varies during the year between 2 and 4 hours.

Tipping municipal, regional, national and Latin

Most restaurants add 10% or more to the total

American championships, and the entire

of the bill, but must make it clear that they have

country comes to a stop when the national

done so. If service is good it is appreciated if

team plays. In the build up to the 2014 World

you leave a little extra. People don’t normally

Cup, expect many of the major stadiums to be

tip taxi drivers, although they will round the

closed as they are prepared for the tournament.

total up. At the hotel it is the usual level of tips

Brazilian Formula One Grand Prix in São Paulo, motor sport generally, volleyball, basketball,

Tour Operators

tennis, and horse racing. VBRATA members are well established UK based tour operators with published travel

Telephone Services

programmes to Brazil. They are recognised by the travel industry for their professionalism and

Brazil has a good telephone network and it is

reliability. VBRATA members include some of

possible to direct dial to just about anywhere in

the largest tour operators in the UK, as well as

Brazil or internationally. The country has one of

medium and small specialised tour operators

the world’s largest mobile phone networks and

that offer a wide variety of options in Brazil and

non-Brazilian mobile phones will work if they

are fully bonded, holding all the required UK

are tri or quad-band and that includes iPhones

licences for security and peace of mind. The

and BlackBerrys. If you have an unblocked

VBRATA tour operator members are listed at

phone it is also possible to buy a local Brazilian

www.vbrata.org.uk.

A-Z OF BRAZIL

for bellhops, chambermaids, etc. Other major spectator sports include the

sim card so that you are only paying for local calls at local rates.

Time Brazil has four time zones but the time in the main areas popular with foreign visitors is generally three hours behind Greenwich Mean Time. This is true of Rio, São Paulo, Brasília, Bahia, Minas Gerais, etc. Brazilian “summer

VBRATA.org

Vaccinations

If there is any doubt about the need for a visa,

Distance by Road (Miles)

states of Acre, Amapá, Amazonas, Distrito

If you are going to work in Brazil you must get

Federal (including the capital city of Brasília),

the appropriate visa from the consulate.

Goiás, Maranhão, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Pará, Rondônia, Roraima

BELÉM

BELO HORIZONTE

1754

SÃO PAULO

RIO DE JAN EIRO SALVADOR

GRE RECIFE

PORTO ALE

NATAL

LLS

LIS

1754 1329 1826 1983 2174 1000 2100 3290 1309 2393 1288 2018 1304 1821

BELÉM

445

990

623

808 1570 936 2454 1458 1063 1280 270

852

364

BELO HORIZONTE

848 1039 1371 977 2167 1504 1259 1326 713

898

630

BRASÍLIA

1043 1233 2115 909 1464 2200 1370 2022 1253 1593 1002

CUIABÂ

Websites

BRASÍLIA

1329 445

704

northwest and west central Rio Grande do Sul,

Because of Brazil, Portuguese is one of the major

CUIABÂ

1826 990

704

far west Santa Catarina, and north and west

languages on the web. Most Brazilian businesses

São Paulo. The vaccination is also recommended

have a web site. The normal address for Brazilian

CURITIBA

1983 623

848 1043

for travellers going to the Iguaçu Falls, but not

sites is “.com.br”, but many also use “.com”.

and Tocantins, and the northwest and west of

MANAUS

tourist.

recommended for travellers when visiting the

IGUAÇU FA

BELÉM

present do need a visa to enter Brazil, even as a Vaccination against yellow fever is

FORTALEZA

Australian, Canadian and US passport holders at

FLORIANÓ PO

(www.cglondres.itamaraty.gov.br). For example

between three months and six years.

CURITIBA

information on the website

against polio is compulsory for children aged

CUIABÂ

An international certificate of vaccination

BELO HOR IZONTE BRASÍLIA

contact the consulate or check the latest

required for travel to the following coastal

FLORIANÓPOLIS

cities: Fortaleza, Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and São Paulo.

Weddings

If there is any doubt about the need for

Couples wishing to marry in Brazil should

a vaccination, contact the consulate or

contact the Brazilian Consulate in London.

check the latest information on its website

Details of the paperwork necessary are available

(www.cglondres.itamaraty.gov.br).

from the consulate or on the website:

FORTALEZA IGUAÇU FALLS MANAUS

2174 808 1039 1233 186

186 2199 396 2506 2090 442 1911 529 1481 253

2383 586 2759 2274 296 2096 710 1666 438

1000 1570 1371 2115 2199 2383

2100 936

977

909

396

586 2388

2388 3579 333 2634 497 1742 863 1942

3290 2454 2167 1464 2506 2759 3579 2373

2373 2396 612 2218 914 1792 650

3717 2834 3538 2716 3111 2466

CURITIBA FLORIANÓPOLIS FORTALEZA IGUAÇU FALLS MANAUS

A-Z OF BRAZIL

Bahia, central and west Paraná, southwest Piauí,

www.cglondres.itamaraty.gov.br.

898 1593 1481 1666 863 1792 3111 699 1919 521 1024

SÃO PAULO

1821 364

630 1002 253

1024 266

RECIFE

NATAL

LLS

438 1942 650 2466 1830 689 1652 266 1218

NATAL PORTO ALEGRE RECIFE RIO DE JANEIRO

1218

SALVADOR

SÃO PAULO

1304 852

RIO DE JAN EIRO

Text, Design & Production by Acumen Marketing Management Ltd. www.acumenmarketing.com

1452 521 1652

SALVADOR

PORTO ALE G

of up to 90 days that can be extended by the

710 1742 914 2716 1630 964 1452

MANAUS

on arrival. Visitors will be admitted for a stay

2347 964 1919 689

713 1253 529

IGUAÇU FA

and proof of sufficient funds may be requested

2018 270

FORTALEZA

valid for at least six months and a return ticket

2525 184 1630 699 1830

RIO DE JANEIRO

LIS

require a visa to enter Brazil. Passports must be

296 2634 612 2834 2525

FLORIANÓ PO

UK and EU passport holders do not at present

1288 1280 1326 2022 1911 2096 497 2218 3538 184 2347

CURITIBA

Visas

Photos are used with kind permission from EMBRATUR, the city and state tourist boards of Brazil, the respective owners and/or copyright holders, or are copyright free. Due to the large number of photographs used, and the equally large number of photographers and sources, it is impossible to credit each photo individually. For individual credits, or information about the photographers, please contact the publisher.

RECIFE

CUIABÂ

and areas.

2393 1063 1259 1370 442

BRASÍLIA

in transit through certain infected countries

PORTO ALEGRE

IZONTE

to their arrival in Brazil, have visited or been

All information is subject to change without notice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, VBRATA and the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

BELO HOR

travellers who, within the three months prior

BELÉM

against yellow fever may be required for

1309 1458 1504 2200 2090 2274 333 2396 3717

SALVADOR

NATAL

An international certificate of vaccination

Federal Police for a further 90 days.

VBRATA.org

VBRATA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Visit Brazil Travel Association To find a UK tour operator specialising in Brazil please visit our website. Email: vbrata@vbrata.org

Web: www.vbrata.org.uk

www.facebook.com/VBRATA.UK

@VBRATAUK