ITB 2018

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BRAZIL

ITB Special Edition - Berlin March 2018 - Free Distribution

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30 | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | ITB l Berlin l March 2018

INDEX NORTH

04 Editorial 31 German Tourists in Brazil 34 How to get to Brazil 36 Ministry os Tourism 38 Embratur 39 Gastronomy

58 Amazonas 60 Pará MIDWEST

60 Distrito Federal 64 Mato Grosso do Sul

NORTHEAST SOUTH

40 42 44 46 48

Alagoas Bahia Ceará Pernambuco Rio Grande do Norte

SOUTHEAST

50 52 54 56

Rio de Janeiro São Paulo Minas Gerais Espírito Santo

66 Paraná 68 Santa Catarina 70 Rio Grande do Sul SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTS

05 Rio Grande do Norte 13 Ceará 21 Santa Catarina

President Adolfo Martins CEO Roy Taylor (roytaylor@mercadoeeventos.com.br) - (55-11) 3123-2222 - (55-21) 3233-6319 Chief Editor Anderson Masetto (anderson. masetto@mercadoeeventos.com.br) - (55-11) 3123-2236 Director of Market Intelligence Bernardo Ignarra (bernardo.ignarra@mercadoeeventos. com.br) - (55-11) 3123-2251 Director of Institutional Relations Rosa Masgrau (rosamasgrau@mercadoeeventos.com.br) - (55-11) 3123-2222 - (55-21) 3233-6316 Director of Sales Mari Masgrau (mari. masgrau@mercadoeeventos.com.br) - (55-11) 3123-2249 Director of New Business Fernando Martins (fernando.martins@mercadoeeventos.com.br) (55-21) 3233-6207 Photographer Eric Ribeiro | Designer Patrick Peixoto Press Office Rio de Janeiro (55-21) 3233-6262 | Press Office São Paulo (55-11) 3123-2239 / 2240 André Montanaro (andre.montanaro@mercadoeeventos.com.br) | Igor Regis (igor.regis@ mercadoeeventos.com.br) Lisia Minelli (lisia.minelli@mercadoeeventos. com.br) | Pedro Menezes (pedro.menezes@ mercadoeeventos.com.br) Victoria Storti (victoria.storti@mercadoeeventos.com.br) Special Collaborator Luiz Marcos Fernandes (luiz.fernandes@mercadoeeventos.com.br) Customer Service (55-11) 3123-2222 Commercial Department São Paulo (55-11) 3123-2252 | Rio de Janeiro (55-21) 3233-6316 / 3233-6320 United States - Globe Travel Media +1 (954) 647-6464 Operational Assistant Roberta Saavedra (55-21) 3233-6319 Translation Matthew Hunt (huntm11@ gmail.com) São Paulo Rua Barão de Itapetininga, 151 - Térreo - Centro - CEP 01042-001 - Phone: (55-11) 3123-2222 – Fax: (55-11) 3129-9095 Rio de Janeiro Rua Riachuelo, 114 - Centro - CEP 20.230-014 - Phone and Fax: (55-21) 3233-6201 Articles and opinions of third parties published in this edition do not necessarily reflect the position of the magazine.

March 2018 l Berlin l ITB | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | 3

WELCOME Diversity at your disposal Brazilisadiversecountry.NotevenamongBrazilians themselves is possible to find someone who has alreadyuncoveredallofthemostdiverseanddistant cornersofthisdestination.Ifyou’vebeentotheSouth andseen thebeautifulbeachesof Santa Catarina,its mountainsandthemeparks,thenyouhavetovisitthe Iguaçu Falls, in Paraná, or Gramado, in Rio Grande do Sul. All this is totally different from the calm and multi-colouredseaoftheNorth-easternregion,which areamongthemostfamousbackdropsofthecountry.

Atthesametime,thereisanotherworldinthesoutheast, with the diversity of São Paulo, the gastronomy and culture of Minas Gerais or the beautiful beaches of Espírito Santo. Rio de Janeiro, well, Rio de Janeiro needsnointroduction,becauseitBrazil’sbest-known destinationthroughoutthewholeworld.Thereisalso the particular beauty of the use of concrete in the FederalDistrictcreatedbythegeniusarchitect,Oscar Niemeyerandthecharmsofnatureinitspurestform in the Pantanal, in Mato Grosso do Sul. Speaking of nature, there is nothing more conducive than the beautiful landscapes of the Amazon and Pará, in the Northern region, with their rivers and forests.

ThereissomuchtodiscoverinBrazil,withoptionsfor alltravelprofiles,whetherforthemoreadventurous, for families, for those who like to experience new cultures,forgastronomyandevenforthosewhojust want to relax and rest. In recent years, the country has greatly expanded its capacity to receive visitors withsomenewairportsandothersheavilyrenovated.

Hotelshavebeeninaugurated,newchainshavearrived inthecountry,buttheBrazilianhospitalitycontinues.

Over the next pages, you can learn, review or find out a little about all of this. To make it easier for our readers,wehaveseparatedoutthebestofwhatBrazil has to offer, a country that remains with open arms to welcome tourists from all over the world.

Happy reading!

4 | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | ITB l Berlin l March 2018

Find your destination

North region Midwest region South region Northeast Region Southeast region

EVERY THING ' STARTS HERE

Pip a-

RN

Pipa - RN

Morro do Careca, in Ponta Negra Beach, is one of the main Natal’s postcards

Natal is rich in nat ural b eauty, h i s t o r y a n d cu l t u r e. T h e t wo most famous att ractions in t he state capital demonst rate t his: Morro do Careca, with its 107m high dune and the Ponta Negra b ea ch, w hich is t ea m ing w it h good restaurants, B&Bs, bustling nightlife and a lovely warm sea.

Along Natal’s coastline, you can go stand up paddling, kayaking and kitesurfing and at night, there are plenty of options for all tastes, from pubs with live forró music to excellent gastronomy.

Aerial view of Reis Magos Fortress, one of the symbols of the capital of Rio Grande do Norte

EVERY THING STARTS HERE

Rio Grande do Norte is the closest point between Brazil and Europe.

There are few places in the world that have such an imposing landmark that marks the foundation of the city. The Reis Magos Fortress is a building that is more than 40 0 years old and is registered by the National Historical Patrimony. Its purpose was to protect the city from attacks by Europ ean colonizers. It is star shaped and its wa lls are p erch e d a b ove t h e s ea between the Potengi River and the Atlantic Ocean. It has now become a popular tourist attraction and the entrance is found on the beach.

e r u t n e v d a e h t starts here If Rio Grande do Norte has the b est clean air in the Americas, t h en t h e city of Pat u, locat e d 370k m f rom Nat a l, is e qua l l y privileged due to the wind in the region. This has made Patu one of the best places in the world for paragliding. The city is located in a mountainous region called Serra do Lima, the home of the monumental Sanctuary of Lima or Nossa Senhora dos ImpossĂ­veis, one of the most religious places in the Northeast.

The city of Patu is famous for its winds and promotes paragliding

E M OT I O N STARTS HERE Tou rism a n d f ish i ng ke ep t h e economy of the r ustic Barra de Cunhaú turning. The city is located 75km south of the state capital and is next to Pipa Beach. Kite a nd w ind sur f ing att ract ma ny adventure seekers due to the calm s ea s a nd s t rong w ind s of t his b each. And although quiet, the b each is already well endowed w i t h g o o d ga s t r o n o m i c a n d lodging opt ions. Here you ca n t a ste f resh f ish s erved nex t to the sea.

Calm seas and strong winds attract nautical sports people in Barra de Cunhaú

TA S T I N G STARTS HERE The local gastronomy is abundant a nd is a sy m b ol of t he Nor t heastern culture. And despite the variety, the “car ne de sol” (sun dried b e ef) is t he flagship a nd it keeps a secular tradition in its preparation. Historians attribute the Portuguese influence of salting fish to that used in meat preparation in the Northeast, taking advantage of the region’s strong sun to dr y it. W here there is tradition and pleasure in cooking, then delicious artisan cuisine should always be tasted, especially here.

The sun dried meat (salted beef) is one of the stars of the local gastronomy

RELAXING STARTS HERE The cultural vocation and the June festivals (São João) of Mossoró a lways char m it s Touris t s, bu t make sure to always leave time to enjoy the sun and the sea in the region. A nd Tibau b each is t he place to do this, with its springs, cliffs, b eaches a nd dunes. It is also a point for sur fing and kite sur f ing, a s well a s f ine dining options and hotel chains. A small paradise that is only 40km from the centre of Mossoró.

June Festival (São João) in Mossoró

Tibau shelters calm and paradisiacal beaches

The salt pyramids can best be seen on a boat trip along the beaches of Camapum, Barreiras and Diogo Lopes

DIVERSIT Y STARTS HERE A nyone who vent ures into t he count r ysid e of R io Gra nd e do Norte w ill dis cover a la nd f ull of natural, cultural and material resources. In addition to typical cuisine, canyons, mines, caves and belvederes, tourists will also find castles in the middle of the unusual landscape of the countryside, like Zé dos Montes Castle, in the city of Sítio Novo, just 100km from Natal and is open to visitors all week.

Zé dos Montes Castle

FA I T H

BEGINS HERE

Religious tourism in R io Grande do Norte has opened up to the world in recent years. Santa Rita de Cássia Sanctuar y, built in 2010, welcomes b elievers year-round t hat visit t he monumental statue of Santa Rita - the largest Catholic image on the planet at 56m in height, located in the city of Santa Cruz, 115km from Natal.

This year, Rio Grande do Norte was added to the religious map of the world due to the sanctification of 30 martyrs, victims of the massacres of Cunhaú and Uruaçu. In São Gonçalo do Amarante, in Greater Natal and it is also where the International Airport is located, the Martyrs Monument was built on the site of one of the massacres.

T here are a ls o ot her cent res of religious pilgrimage in Rio Grande do Norte that attract thousands of faithful people every year: the Shrine of Our Lady of Victor y (Monte do Ga lo, in t he city of Car naúba dos Dantas), the Shrine of Our Lady of Grace or Menina Santa (in the city of Florânia), and the Sanctuar y of Our Lady of the Impossibles (in the Serra do Lima, city of Patu).

The Sant’Ana Festival in Caicó, held for more than 260 years, is another highlight of local religion, already considered an Intangible Heritage of Brazil. Traditionally, the feast is a great festival, where the children of the Sant’Ana, grandmother of Jesus, fraternize in an act of faith.

Santa Rita - Santa Cruz

Caicó is famous for receiving the Sant’Ana Festival

Cariri: the union of forrรณ, history, culture and faith March 2018 l Berlin l ITB | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | 13

Geopark

For those who have an adventurous spirit, then you will find a great destination in Cariri, which is found in the southern region of the state of Ceará. This is where the only geopark in Brazil, the Araripe Geopark, is located. Visitors can access 9 geological and paleontological sites in an approximate area of 3,400 km², which covers the cities of Crato, Juazeiro do Norte, Barbalha, Missão Velha, Nova Olinda and Santana do Cariri.

The scientific and pedagogical tourist route is filled with archaeology, geology and paleontology. It is possible to go on an

expedition called “Unmasking Prehistory” where you will find records dating back 110 million years. There are 750 fossils of animals and plants of the Cretaceous period that give us an insight into the prehistoric life of the Cariri region.

The Araripe Geopark is in the Araripe Tableland, a vast area of vegetation that houses a national forest, an environmental protection area and the geopark. Visitors to the Araripe National Forest can go hiking, cycling or just contemplate the nature of Cariri.

Setur-CE

Araparipe draws attention to its unique landscapes

Petrified forest

Geossítios

Due to numerous climatic changes that took place 145 million years ago, water turned into stone. This phenomenon, explained by chemistry, can be studied and admired in the Sítio Olho D’Água Comprido, 6km from Missão Velha. The Petrified Forest of Cariri encompasses a treasure trove of significant value for Paleontology, besides being of special importance for geological study and paleobotanical evolution.

Horto Hill

Just 3km far from Juazeiro do Norte, Horto Hill is represented by the statue of Father Cícero, which is where the Living Museum of Padre Cícero and the path of the Holy Sepulcher are located.

Missão Velha Waterfall

The geosite is also 3km from Missão Velha and it appeals to its visitors with its 12m high waterfalls that were formed formed by the Salgado River.

Batateiras

After a 3km climb from Crato, a single pause during your trek is enough for you to hear the songs of several species of birds, among them the Soldadinho do Araripe. The natural sources of water from the Batateiras geosite make the Cariri lands fertile and also supply the local population with water.

Pterosaur Park

The park is located in Sítio Canabrava, in the heart of Caatinga (type of desert vegetation), in Santana do Cariri. It is obligatory to stop here if you want to experience the diversity of fossils and other relics of the history of the region.

Setur-CE

Landscape of Cariri

Cariri Stone

The park is located in Sítio Canabrava, in the heart of Caatinga (type of desert vegetation), in Santana do Cariri. It is obligatory to stop here if you want to experience the diversity of fossils and other relics of the history of the region.

Pontal de Santa Cruz

A fascinating place on the top of the Araripe Tableland. From up here it is possible to see all the exuberance of the region and the graceful Santana do Cariri. The Pontal brings an obscure past back to the present and is based on myths and legends that attract the attention of tourists and locals, being one of the most visited geosites of the Araripe Geopark.

Ponte de Pedra

This geosite is located in the municipality of Nova Olinda, on the slopes of the Araripe Tableland. The highlight is the natural rock formation that is similar to a bridge, which provides an incredible view of the plateau and the countryside..

Riacho do Meio

The scenery here could not be more beautiful: crystalline waters, calm and mild temperatures. Riacho do Meio can be described as an ideal place to relax and is only a few kilometres from the centre of Barbalha.

Juazeiro do Norte House of Father CĂ­cero, who was famous for his miracles of turning wafer into blood and even for helping in the independence and liberation of the city, becoming the greatest spiritual leader of the hinterland people.

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The Region

Located in the South of Ceará, Cariri is known mainly for its religion, its culture and its craftsmanship. The three main cities in the region are Juazeiro do Norte, Crato and Barbalha.

Cariri is home to Father Cícero: the city of Juazeiro do Norte, which is 491km from Fortaleza and is the second largest city in the state. Those looking to find out more about religion in the lands of Father Cícero, then check out “Padim Ciço”, the greatest spiritual leader of the people of the countryside. Here you can follow the “Pilgrims’ Paths” and visit Horto Hill where all his life’s trajectories and history are represented in a museum. To get to know the richness of the cultural and historical heritage of the hinterland, then take the “Historical-Cultural Cariri” tour.

Horto Hill is 3km from the city of Juazeiro do Norte and includes the statue of Father Cícero, the Living Museum of Father Cícero,

Religiosity is one of the local characteristics

the Church of Senhor Bom Jesus do Horto and the trail to the Holy Sepulcher (2,650m). Horto Hill gained prominence in the history of Juazeiro do Norte due to the presence of Father Cícero Romão Batista, a major political and religious figure of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Today, devotion to Father Cicero continues to attract hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from all over Brazil, especially in the Northeast.

If nature, adventure and ecology are your thing, then you can follow in the footsteps of the “Songs and Charms of the Araripe Tableland”.

The vegetation is quite diverse, presenting Cerrado and Caatinga areas. Its fauna is rich with birds, mammals, reptiles and insects.

How to get there: The journey time by car, going from Fortaleza, is about 7 hours. By airplane, this time is reduced to approximately 1 hour.

Setur-CE

Santana do Cariri

Santana do Cariri

The city of Santana do Cariri was created in 1885 and has the title of “Local Capital of Paleontology”. It stands out for having a vast paleontological site, where several species of extinct animals have been discovered. It houses the Museum of Paleontology of the Regional University of Cariri and the Cultural House, Felinto da Cruz Neves, which tourists can’t miss.

Sightseers are advised to visit the Benigna Memorial and Euroville, a street with traditional houses from several countries in the world. You will even find a small replica of the Eiffel Tower.

The Santana do Cariri Paleontology Museum is one of the most important archaeological sites in the country, with over 7,000 fossils of fish, insects, reptiles, amphibians and plants.

The sunset from the panoramic view offered from Pontal de Santa Cruz is one of the most beautiful picture postcards that visitors can take home. From Pontal, tourists can observe the Araripe Plateau.

Santana do Cariri also stands out for its hand made products in the Santanense Association of Artisan Support. Tourists can purchase typical handicrafts made of lace, embroidery, leather, pottery and paint. In gastronomy, the highlight is the Cabidela chicken (chicken blood rice).

Museum of Paleontology in Santana do Cariri

Nova Olinda

Nova Olinda is known mainly for being the land of master Espedito Seleiro, who began to make leather products as a child, when he learnt the art of treating and transforming cowhide and goat leather into pieces used by cowboys, such as saddles, belts and whips. One day, tired of so many replica pieces - leather sandals are a tradition in Ceará’s countryside and are sold in any popular market - he saw that he needed to innovate.

Using natural products, such as the tincture of the bark of angico, a common tree in the city, he dyed the leather. The new yellow, red, green and purple sandals were successful and Espedito became valued within the fashion, cinema and design world. He has already made pieces for major Brazilian brands and, in 2006, participated in the São Paulo Fashion Week. The artisan still works and strolls through Nova Olinda, always willing to stop for a chat.

Setur-CE

Amongst the natural attractions of the area, tourists will find the Furna Pintada Archaeological Site, Ponte da Pedra, Olho D’Água Caves, Pedra da Coruja (Owls Stone) and the Poço do Inferno (Well of Hell). The architecture includes the São Sebastião Church and the Casa Grande Foundation Museum - Kariri Man’s Memorial, a non-governmental, cultural and philanthropic organization created in 1992. Its creation took place after the restoration of Tapera, the first Casa da Fazenda (Farm House) in the city of Nova Olinda, which is a crossing point for cattle across the Cariri to the Sertão dos Inhamuns road, in the period of the leather civilization, at the end of the 17th century.

The celebration of the Pau da Bandeira in the city of Barbalha

The second largest city in Ceará, Juazeiro do Norte, is 491km from Fortaleza and is known for religious tourism. The destination was for some years the home of Father Cícero, who was famous for his miracles of turning wafer into blood and even for helping in the independence and liberation of the city, becoming the greatest spiritual leader of the hinterland people. Today, the city is one of the three largest centres of popular religion in Brazil, together with Aparecida and Nova Trento, attracting more than 2.5 million pilgrims per year.

Consequently, the area has a unique itinerary for those who wish to follow in the footsteps of “Padim Ciço”, as Father Cícero is known: the “Pilgrims Way” (Caminhos dos Romeiros). With several tourist attractions related to the saint, one of the most important is the Horto Hill, which houses the statue of Father Cícero, the Living Museum of Father Cícero, the Church of Senhor Bom Jesus do Horto and the 2,650m trail that leads to the Holy Sepulchre.

To know more about North-eastern culture the Juazeiro do Norte is an omissible Popular Culture Centre, which has exhibitions, handicrafts, typical cuisine, a stage for folk performances, cordel literature and other events. Taste the traditional baião-de-dois with pequi, one of the main delicacies of North-eastern cuisine.

Crafts

One of the main craft icons of Ceará is the master, Espedito Seleiro, who was born in Nova Olinda, in Cariri. He began drawing and cutting leather as a child. The newest tourist spot in the city, the Leather Museum, opened to visitors in December 2014. Tools and antique pieces are part of the personal collection of the craftsman, Espedito Velozo de Carvalho, who is now 77 years old. His atelier and shop are on the same street as the museum.

His father, Raimundo Seleiro, as he tells it, was responsible for making the sandals of Lampião and is a local folk hero.

As a boy, Espedito learnt to work with his father, Raimundo Seleiro, who was taught by his father, Gonçalves Seleiro, the son of Antônio Seleiro, the art of treating and transforming cowhide and goat leather into pieces worn by cowboys, such as saddles, belts and whips. When he was a child, his family fled a drought and moved from Inhamuns, the more arid area of Ceará, to the almost always-green Cariri. At the age of 16, in search of a better

life, Espedito left for Paraná. He spent three years there, always working with leather, and after returned to Cariri.

One day, tired of so many similar pieces - leather sandals are tradition in the inland of Ceará and are sold in any popular markets - he saw that he needed to innovate. Using natural products, such as the tincture of the bark of a common tree in the city called angico, he started dying the leather.

He made yellow, red, green, and purple sandals, full of drawings.

An acquaintance of his then took the products to market to sell.

Demand grew and the coloured sandals were the differential between him and the other craftsmen. Master Espedito gained admiration and his fame spread.

In the last few years, Espedito’s work has turned into a signature valued in the world of fashion, cinema and design. He has already made pieces for major Brazilian brands and, in 2006, participated in the São Paulo Fashion Week. His work was the theme of the exhibition “Da Sela à Passarela” (From the Saddle to the Catwalk), in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Also created by Espedito Seleiro, is the coloured leather jerkin used by the character of the Brazilian actor Marcos Palmeira in the film “O Homem que Desafiou o Diabo” (The Man Who Defied the Devil) (2007).

Just as he learnt the tricks of the trade from his family, Seleiro has taught what he knows to his sons, grandchildren and nephews, and with them he maintains the cooperative Espedito Seleiro Family Association, which brings together 22 professionals. If he is in town, do not miss the opportunity to spend a few minutes shooting the breeze with him. For sure you will not regret it.

How to get there

You can reach Cariri on direct flights from Fortaleza, Recife, São Paulo and Brasília. The flight time from Fortaleza to Juazeiro do Norte is about 45 minutes. By car, take the following roads, BR-116, BR-230, CE-385 and CE-060.

Inaugurated on December 1, 2009, the Cariri Subway is a light rail vehicle linking Crato to the neighbouring city of Juazeiro do Norte, an initiative of the State Government in partnership with the regions of the cities involved.

Craftsman making leather clothes

Praia do Rosa

Beto Carrero World

Timbó

Piratuba

Unipraias

Figueira do Pontal

Florianópolis Cânion Fortaleza

Oktoberfest/Blumenau

Ponte Hercílio Luz Cavalgada em Lages

March 2018 l Berlin l ITB | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | 21

From North to South, a tour of beautiful beaches and pleasant surprises SP T

he coast of Santa Catarina is 561km long and from the state capital, Florianópolis, with its beautiful beaches, you will pass through the Verde Mar Coast region, where there are ten cities with a tourist vocation with attractions abound. Whale and dolphin watching, rich cuisine, with a strong emphasis on seafood (crustaceans), adventure tourism and water sports are just a few of the leisure and entertainment options.

PR

Rosa Beach - Recognized by UNESCO as one of the most beautiful bays in the world, Praia do Rosa is still reminiscent of an old fishing village, with its canoes, mullet fishing and rustic B&Bs, give the area its charm.

Located in Imbituba and 18km from Garopaba, Rosa Beach is bordered

by Vermelha Beach to the north and Portinho Beach to the south. The destination was discovered by surfers in the 1970’s and today is one of the main points for trying out the different sports available, especially in Sul do Rosa, in Vila Beach. Between August and November you can see the Right whales that migrate to Rosa Beach to feed its babies in the first months of their lives.

SC RS

Santa Marta Lighthouse - Located on the Cape of Santa Marta, 14km from the historic town of Laguna, the land of Anita Garibaldi, it was built by the French in 1891 and is the most powerful lighthouse in South America. Still in service, it retains some of the original equipment but is closed to the public. The area is also highly sought after for sports and activities such as stand up paddle, kite surfing, windsurfing, hiking, running, sand boarding and its natural pools.

SP: São Paulo PR: Paraná RS: Rio Grande do Sul

Ibiraquera - Ibiraquera Beach is considered as one of the best beaches for stand up paddling, kitesurfing and windsurfing in the whole of Brazil. The scenery consists of dunes, rivers, islands and lagoons. Each year, in October, the world’s windsurfing and kitesurfing elite gather on the sands of Ibiraquera for the most anticipated Latin American wave sailing competition: the Ibiraquera Wave Contest.

Garopaba - Located in a cove, in the urban centre, the beach of Garopaba has dunes and a lovely calm sea, which is great for various nautical sports. The landscape enchants not only its visitors, but also the locals, who are overwhelmed by the contrast of the sea next to the fishermen’s barracks with their colourful boats. To avoid the heat, a good tip is to cool off in Siriú Beach.

Lagoa Conceição

Lagoinha do Leste

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Campeche Island

Santa Catarina

Mole Beach

Santur

Santur

Right Whale Watching in Garopaba, south of Santa Catarina

Ibiraquera Bar - Imbituba

Santur

Late afternoon in the Historic Centre of S찾o Francisco do Sul

S찾o Francisco do Sul, a stroll tback hrough time The island of S찾o Francisco do Sul is one of the most interesting tourist destinations on the coast of Santa Catarina. The city revels in its history within its urban and architectural complex, with more than 400 properties listed by the National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN). It is one of the three oldest cities in Brazil. The municipality still maintains a calm environment, despite having one of the most important and busy ports of the country. Besides the Historic Centre, other attractions deserve to be appreciated, such as the beaches, waterfalls, mangroves, dunes,

peninsulas, lagoons and Mata Atl창ntica forests.

Among the many highlights of the city, there is the only boat museum in Brazil: the National Museum of the Sea. The venue has copies from various regions of the country and exclusive models, miniatures of boats and fishing tools and navigational instruments.

There is also a library and scenes of life-sized sea life. San Francisco do Sul is easily accessible from Joinville, on board schooners that cross the Bay of Babitonga, passing by islets and mangroves, a true spectacle of nature.

March 2018 l Berlin l ITB | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | 23

Campeche Island

hustle and bustle of the beaches.

Moçambique Beach - The longest beach in Florianópolis and one of the largest in Santa Catarina, Mozambique has 8.5km of clear and soft sand that guarantees unspoilt natural beauty.

Part of the Rio Vermelho Forest Park, a reserve of approximately 15.300 M2, is untouched with no constructions on the site or along the road.

The beach has good waves and is one of the most popular for surfing.

Mole Beach

Florianópolis: the best of the capital of Santa Catarina With an international airport that is undergoing renovation and a population that has already surpassed 450,000 inhabitants, Floripa, as it is known by the people of Santa Catarina, has tours that take you to the attractions of the Municipal Market, where there are good restaurants and hotels and a busy social life with bars, discos and nightclubs.

If you have time, include a tour to Lagoa da Conceição. in your itinerary. Formed by the Canto da Lagoa, Canto dos Araçás, Sertão Grande and Retiro da Lagoa, the region is home to beaches, dunes, mountains and the largest lagoon of Florianópolis. Picnics, hiking, paddle boats, schooners and kayaks form part of the scenery that is made up of preserved buildings from colonial times, making a beautiful contrast. Centrinho da Lagoa is a good choice and the area has countless restaurants that serve the famous “shrimp sequence”.

During the summer season, the biggest highlight of Floripa is the 42 beaches that include the most varied sizes and characteristics. Surfers, children, the elderly, sportsmen and young people are divided between the quiet places and the busiest parties of the city, which transform the most popular beaches into big cultural stages. Check out some of the best known: 24 | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | ITB l Berlin l March 2018

Jurerê and Jurerê Internacional Jurerê is dependent on its long and calm waves, pale yellow fine sand and warm and pleasant water. The place is ideal for families and seniors to take the opportunity to relax to the soft sound of the sea. During the night, Jurerê hosts musical attractions and parties. Jurerê Internacional Beach is reminiscent of Miami Beach. The neighbourhood is planned and has large mansions. It is considered as the epicentre of luxury in Florianópolis, home to funky beach lounges when, in the summer, the parties reach fever pitch and are watered by sparkling wine and the sound of electronic beats.

Forte Beach - A small road separates Forte Beach from the great tourist centres of the north of the island. It is a little nook of tranquillity, with a unique landscape and warm water. Being a region where there is oysters and shellfish production, the local restaurants offer fresh the seafood. Sport on the sandy beaches, such as running, stretching and yoga, are common and very popular with tourists and locals that like the feeling of well being.

Lagoinha - In the North end of the Island, Lagoinha is a small beach with the characteristics of a cove, as other beaches protect it. It houses a traditional fishing colony and is stunning. It is ideal for those who wish to have peace and quiet and to be away from the

Brava Beach - Clear water, beautiful people on the sand, music, events and an active community, this is the universe that encompasses Brava Beach, which is highlighted in the summer by good infrastructure, and, of course, the stunning view. There is always music and kiosks that serve drinks and snacks. The sea is a real amusement park for surfers.

Joaquina Beach - Next to Brava Beach is Joaquina or Joaca Beach, as it is nicknamed by the locals. Known for its perfect but usually cold waves, Joaquina is the favourite place for many surfers, hosting national and even world championships.

Ribeirão da Ilha and Armação Located in the South Bay, Ribeirão da Ilha’s seas is calm and shallow, bucking the trend of the other beaches of the South. The sand is also thick and dark. On the waterfront, the architecture of the 18th and 19th centuries stands out and gives a special charm to this little piece of paradise. Just 25km from the centre of Florianópolis, Armação Beach still maintains a small village atmosphere and is one of the main artisanal fishing centres on the island, with several fishing communities that traverse the seas. Together with Campeche and Pântano do Sul, they form the largest fishing complex in the city.

Ingleses - The blue water beach stretches for 5km, has average waves and good infrastructure.

In the summer, go to the left side where there are less people. There is sandboarding on the dunes, where you can descend down the dune on a wooden plank . The local population maintain traditions of the Azorean colonizers and still make the most of the winter to go fishing, when there are less people around. It is 35 km from the city centre.

Canasvieiras –At a little more than 2km in length, the beach is urbanized and combines natural beauty and complete infrastructure. There are few waves and is frequented by families. In the summer, it is good to arrive early to find a place on the narrow strip of sand. It is 27km from the city centre.

Castle of Nations, in Beto Carrero World

Theme Parks and Adventure: Beto Carrero World and Unipraias O

ne is considered as the ninth best amusement park on the planet and the first in Latin America according to a TripAdvisor survey. The other is a tourist complex with trails, canopy circuits, gazebos, outdoor auditorium, amphitheatre, food kiosks and complete infrastructure for leisure, shopping and services. Beto Carrero World, in the city of Penha, and Unipraias, in Balneário Camboriú, are two must-see attractions in the leisure and entertainment industry. Last year, Beto Carrero World received more than 2,000,000 visitors, with 700,000 in July alone, which is the holiday season. It is no

wonder, the attractions captivate parents and children and it is situated o a plot measuring 14,000,000m2, the complex has more than 100 attractions including zoos, circuses, themed shows and state of the art rides. The park is divided into seven areas: Nations Avenue, Animal World, German Village, Old West, Pirates Island, Radical Adventure and Land of Fantasy. Each area has themed attractions that put visitors into a world as if it had come out of the imagination. Those who like adventure cannot fail to try the Big Tower (the largest free-fall tower in Brazil), the Tower of Terror lifts and the FireWhip

(the first inverted roller coaster in Brazil and the largest in Latin America).

In the zoo, it is possible to come across the most diverse species of animals, including animals threatened by extinctin. There is an impressive water park, the Empire of Waters, where boats glide along a winding river of almost 1km, with ascents and descents between waterfalls, swirls, caves, canyons, scenery and effects of light and sound. For adults, the park offers a large number of shops and even an outlet. And, yet, shows of Broadway standard will delight not only the young but also the whole family.

Take a cable car to Unipraias

T

Catarina, due to its calm sea and clear water.

On the waterfront, a complete structure of bars and restaurants cater for tourists. The best program is to choose something from the seafood menu, the typical cuisine of the region, or rent kayaks and buoys to have fun

in the waters of Laranjeiras.

Two more stops are mandatory: the Youhooo!, a mountain sled with a 710m course in the middle of the Atlantic Forest, and the ZipRider, a zip line that descends 750m.

Both reach up to 60kph.

Cable car at Unipraias Park

March 2018 l Berlin l ITB | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | 25

Santur

he words ecotourism and adrenaline define Unipraias. Located between two beaches - Central and Laranjeiras -, the park has a cable car which takes you to both and an intermediate stop at the top of a hill from where you have a breath-taking view of the city of Balneário Camboriú.

The initial station of Barra Sul has a shopping and leisure centre. It is interactive and of multiple use, including artistic exhibitions and handicrafts. The view is panoramic and overlooks the Atlantic Forest Station that includes kiosks, a souvenir shop, tree walking, the Ângelo Bogo Auditorium and the Environmental Park, which has 500m of footbridges in the middle of the forest. Along the way, two lookouts recharge the energies with stunning views.

The last stop is at the Laranjeiras Station, which takes visitors to the beach of the same name as the station. The beach is considered as one of the most beautiful in Santa

26 | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | ITB l Berlin l March 2018

March 2018 l Berlin l ITB | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | 27

Verde e Mar Coast: the charms of the seashore magine a unique itinerary with diverse attractions that will appeal to all discerning travellers. The region of Verde Mar (Green Sea) Coast is comprised of ten cities such as Porto Belo, Camboriú and Piçarras, besides the cities of Itajaí, Itapema, Navegantes and Luiz Alves. Penha, Bombinhas and Ilhota are also included in this itinerary. Each one has its own characteristics and diverse attractions:

Museum of the Sea

Santur

Balneário Camboriú – The Argentineans favourite place is transformed during the summer into a “neighbourhood” of Buenos Aires. The arrival and departure from the hotels and currency exchange centres is constant.

During the day the fun is concentrated along the 8.5 km Central Beach, where you can visit the most distant parts or take a schooner ride through the bays and coves. Balneário Camboriú is home to ten beaches and offers options for all tastes. Pinho Beach, for example, is a nudist beach used by naturists and always arouses curiosity.

Santur

I

Bombinhas - Diving on Arvoredo Island

Praia do Pinho - The Argentineans favourite place is transformed during the summer into a “neighbourhood” of Buenos Aires.

The arrival and departure from the hotels and currency exchange centres is constant. During the day the fun is concentrated along the 8.5 km Central Beach, where you can visit the most distant parts or take a schooner ride through the bays and coves. Balneário Camboriú is home to ten beaches and offers options for all tastes.

Pinho Beach, for example, is a nudist beach used by naturists and always arouses curiosity.

At dusk the busiest place is along the bars and restaurants of Atlântica Avenue. Families are also present in the South, in Laranjeiras, with its calm waters and good facilities.On the same

28 | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | ITB l Berlin l March 2018

Santur

Porto Belo - View of the seashore

road, a good place is Estaleirinho. Access to the beaches of the South is made by the Highway Interpraias, a beautiful panoramic road, which stretches for 16km or by the cable car that connects the beaches to the centre. In the low season it is one of the favourite trips for groups and excursions by senior citizens.

Bombinhas – It was named after the noise produced when walking on the sands that are rich in quartz crystals, causing small snaps, just as if they were small bombs. Bombinhas is one of the most popular beaches in the state.

It has good tourist infrastructure, with hotels, restaurants and shops, besides the traditional nautical sports. The region is known as the capital of ecological diving. With a total of 16 beaches (Atalaia, Bombinhas, Bombinhas, Canto Grande, Cardoso, Conceição, Embrulho, Galheta, Lagoa, Lagoinha, Mariscal, Quatro Ilhas, Retiro dos Padres, Ribeiro, Sepultura, Zimbros and Prainha), it hides one of the most fascinating underwater scenarios in the world, with coral reefs and shipwrecks such as the LILI (1957) freighter on Galés Island.

Adventure seekers, in summer, can watch paragliders taking off from Macaco Hill. Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, handicrafts shopping, fishing and visits to museums are other year-round activities.

Santur

Porto Belo

Balneário Camboriú

Porto Belo – One of the main cruise stops on the Brazilian coast, Porto Belo has an island of the same name that captivates due to its paradisiacal beauty. The island draws attention to its preserved nature and it is a special attraction amid the convenience of the infrastructure offered to its visitors. The ecological trail of “Pedra da Cruz” is the ideal tour to get to know the area. The high point of the guided tour is the legends and curiosities told by the guides that relate to the history of occupation of the island. Diving is also a highlight on the island of Porto Belo and at some points it is possible to observe an infinity of species. Kayaking, water skiing, zip lining, boat rides, banana boat and crazy disc are just some of the possibilities available.

Itajaí - A neighbour of Balneário de Camboriú, Itajaí has become famous for its port. The city is investing in a new marina to improve its infrastructure. There are many beaches, do not forget to visit Brava beach, one of the busiest in the state for surfing. Brava, by the way, is a stronghold of the young, who arrive in search of excitement and amusement. In Cabeçudas, make sure you take the opportunity to stroll around and enjoy the beautiful colonial houses. To enjoy a more peaceful environment, head to the beaches of Morcego, found between Brava and Cabeçudas; and Atalaia, its good waves attract local surfers. Mercado Velho is worth a mention for its mix of coffee, restaurants, craft shops and spices, right next to the Fish Market.

Penha and Navegantes - With an approximate length of 6km, the Beach of Armação, in Penha, appeals to tourists due to its clear and transparent waters. It is a privileged beach and well evaluated in the real estate market. Here you will also find the Beach of São Miguel, with calm seas, ideal for swimming and good for families with young children. Surfers, on the other hand, prefer Grande Beach, from here you can see the Ponta da Vigia lighthouse, as well as the fishermen coming and going along the coast, in their fishing gear or just picking clams on the rocks. In Navegantes, an airport with regular flights from Rio de Janeiro, Porto Alegre and São Paulo connects the region to the rest of Brazil. Gravatá beach is the most popular in the region, with lively nightlife and several bars and restaurants.

Governador Celso Ramos - Stretch out your trip and take in a tour of Governador Celso Ramos. The region occupies a beautiful peninsula with unusual outcrops that divide the coast into 23 beautiful beaches suitable for diving, windsurfing, jet skiing and surfing.

Some have good infrastructure like the beach of Palmas, others are completely deserted, like Ilheus and Bananeiras. The region also includes the Marinha do Arvoredo biological reserve. The island of Anhatomirim, a popular tourist spot, is home to fortresses such as Santa Cruz. The accommodation highlights are the guesthouses and luxury resorts, as is the case of the Ponta dos Ganchos Resort that welcomes artists and personalities.

Makito

Piçarras - Located to the north of the Santa Catarina coast, it is privileged to have one of the most beautiful coastlines of the state, with 7km of quiet beaches and two islands (Feia and Itacolomi). The municipality has natural resources as its main tourist attraction, with special attention being given to its waters. The beach is considered as one of the cleanest in the state. Due to its calm waters, it is an excellent option for the whole family.

Itapema – With calm and crystalline seas, Itapema Beach divides its space between big hotels, bars and restaurants. Meanwhile, Meia Beach, which is bigger, better known and more frequented by tourists, is a popular beach. For those who prefer the peace and quiet however, a good tip is the Costão Beach or Canto Beach. Walking on the rocks of Costão and admiring the seafront is another good option.

Grande Beach, in São Francisco do Sul

March 2018 l Berlin l ITB | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | 29

Canyons and nature in the Santa Catarina mountains

Serra do Rio do Rastro is the main postcard of the region

C

limbing the mountain range along the winding Rio do Rastro road, you will find lush landscapes after passing through Tubarão and Termas de Gravatal. Small cities, such as São Joaquim, Bom Jardim da Serra, Urubici, Urupema and Lages, form a tour of 17 cities and districts where it is possible to enjoy rural life when staying in hotels and guesthouses that offer tours and programs to lovers of the so-called, Country Tourism.

All have landscapes interspersed by canyons of heights reaching over 700m, with waterfalls, rock formations and a tourist route that passes through 15 wineries, some of them open to the public. In the main country hotels, typical of rural tourism, such as the Eco Resort Rio do Rastro, in Bom Jardim da Serra, and Fazenda do Boqueirão, in Lages, where there is a whole established program for tourists, with horseback riding, fishing, trails, barbecues with a traditional bonfire, typical festivities with Italian and local gastronomy. All this with a contagious hospitality, capable of captivating visitors of all ages.

In Bom Jardim da Serra, the ecological tips in the region are off-road, horseback riding and the canyons of Laranjeiras, Ronda and Funil. At the Ecoresort Rio do Rastro, tourism companies offer several tours.

Just 83km from Bom Jardim da Serra, Urubici, with little more than 10,000 inhabitants, is transformed with the arrival of thousands of tourists during the winter season. When it starts snowing, the flow of tourists triples rapidly. The region has natural attractions such as the Avencal Falls, with a drop of more than 100m in and a 270m zipline that crosses the waterfall. The rock inscriptions of millennial civilizations also draw attention. The main attraction here, present on the front of postcards, is Pedra Furada.

Rural Tourism is the main attraction in Lages. The Serra do Rio do Rastro is the main postcard of the region. The calendar of events includes the MotoNeve Festival, the Native Song Festival and the Pinhão Festival, as well as the Christmas Festival. Tourists visiting 30 | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | ITB l Berlin l March 2018

Canyons

the region should not miss Coxilha Rica, whose attraction is the “tropeiros”’ route. São Joaquim, the coldest city in Brazil, is known for being the largest producer of apples in the country. Do not miss the Villa Francioni winery that produces famous wine produced at altitude. Located at 1,425m, Urupema also has Rural Tourism. One of the most visited places is the Fazenda do Barreiro, founded in 1978 and offers lodging and typical gastronomy. Among the curiosities is the Que Congela Cascade (Cascade That Freezes), in the Morro das Torres, 7km from the centre.

Bem Viver e Caminho Verde Route ( Well Living and Green Path Route) -If you enjoy nature, then a good tip is the region of Quilombo on a tour of 12 small properties that offer food, guesthouses and access to the countryside.

READ MORE Capital: Florianópolis Region: South Website: www.turismo.sc.gov.br

Brazil

Information about Brazil Official Name: Federative Republic of Brazil Capital: Brasília Location: East of South America Language: Portuguese President: Michel Temer Currency: Real (R$) Minister of Tourism: Marx Beltrão

North region Midwest region South region North East Region Southeast region

German tourists per year in Brazil EveryyeartheMinistryofTourismconductsresearchwithforeigntouristsvisitingBrazil.Lastyeartherewere6.6millionvisitors.Thesurvey takesintoaccountthecountryoforiginandseekstoprofilethesetourists.InthecaseofGermany,thefigurescollectedin2017relateto2016.

CALENDAR - The European winter months, traditionally, are when the largest number of Germans, travelling abroad, visit Brazil, whether for leisure or business. In turn, the summer months of July and August, are when the European market stays in their own continent.

NUMBERS - In 2016, the volume of German tourists who visited Brazil, reached the mark of 221,513, whether for leisure or business, which places Germany among the top 10 countries that send most visitors to Brazil. In Europe, the German market is the second largest emitter of tourists to Brazil.

TRAVEL TYPE - Of the total number of German tourists who visited Brazil in 2016, 32.7% said they were traveling for leisure, 25.9% on business and 41.4% stated other reasons.

TOURIST PROFILE - The vast majority (44.3%) were motivated by nature, ecotourism or for adventure tourism destinations, followed by sun and beach destinations with a total of 29.2%. Of those who came to Brazil, at least 60.9% travelled alone, while couples without children were 17.8%, 13.4% came with friends and 10.1% with family.

Out of the tourists surveyed, 57.8% had previously visited Brazil and 42.2% said it was the first time. 59.8% were men and 40.2% were women. The age group that registered the highest index (24.6%) was tourists between 25 and 31. On the other hand, 17.6% of tourists were between 41 and 50 and 19.1%. were between the ages of 32 and 40. The vast majority of visitors (44.9%) had a degree and 29.2% were post graduates. The average family income was US$4,267 and the individual household income was US$2,679.

TYPE OF ACCOMMODATION - The vast majority (41.9%) chose to stay in hotels, flats, resorts or guesthouses. Staying with friends or relatives had a preference figure of 34.8%.

AVERAGE EXPENSES - The average expenditure of German tourists for leisure travel was US$60.59 per day. The corporate traveller

spent about US$83.14 and spending for other unspecified reasons was US$37.2.

AVERAGE STAY - German tourists who travelled for leisure, spent an average of 16.2 days in their chosen destination and those who travelled for business, 15.2 days.

PREFERRED DESTINATIONS - The most visited city by Germans who came to Brazil in 2016 for leisure was Rio de Janeiro, with 57.1%. Next comes Foz do Iguaçu with 39.7% among the preferred destinations. The cities of São Paulo, Salvador and Florianópolis follow. Among the preferred destinations to those who travelled for business São Paulo led with 35.4% followed by Rio de Janeiro with 26.4%. Curitiba, Campinas and Foz do Iguaçu come next.

TRAVEL SERVICES USED - The survey also reveals that 84.4% did not use a travel agency and 12.2% stated that they used specific travel agency services. Only 3.4% of the respondents confirmed that they had purchased their trip through an agency.

DEGREE OF SATISFACTION - Of the German tourists consulted about the degree of satisfaction, at least 24.9% confirmed that the trip to Brazil surpassed their expectations, 57.3% said that the trip fully met what they expected to find, 14.2% said only partially and 3.6% of those interviewed stated their disappointment. At the end of the survey, 92.2% confirmed their intention to return to Brazil and only 7.8% said they would not return to the country.

SERVICES – In the positive evaluation by German tourists, the highest approval rating was the taxi service with 86.7% followed by public safety with 74.3%, telecommunications with 73.5% and urban cleaning with 71.9%. The airports obtained a positive evaluation of 89.9% and restaurants 92.6%. Tour guides received praise with a rating of 89.1% and hospitality, at 97.6%, was the best evaluated by the Germans.

March 2018 l Berlin l ITB | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | 31

Brazil. Beauty that inspires the world.

Fortaleza – Ceará

São Paulo

Florianópolis – Santa Catarina

Salvador – Bahia

Amazing and multiple natural beauties are waiting for you in Brazil.

A different experience that you understand only when you visit.

Rio de Janeiro

Aviation

HOW TO GET THERE This magazine shows the main attractions of the country, that, actually, are only one or two flights away from Europe.

This is because it is increasingly easier to arrive in Brazil, whether direct from Germany itself or from one of the famous capitals of the Old Continent. See the main options below: Lufthansa & Condor We could not start this “How to Get There” without mentioning Lufthansa and Condor, the two German companies operating flights to Brazil. Currently, Lufthansa maintains daily operations between Frankfurt/FRA and São Paulo/GRU (LH506/507) and between Frankfurt/FRA and Rio de Janeiro/GIG (LH500/501). Condor has flights between Frankfurt and Fortaleza weekly. From Munich, the company has been operating direct flights to Recife every Tuesday since November 8, 2017. Therefore, there are 16 weekly flights between four Brazilian cities and Germany.

Latam Brazil, TAP and other major European Another company that also has daily services between Germany and Brazil is Latam Brasil, through its JJ8070/8071 flights, currently operated by B777s between São Paulo/GRU and Frankfurt/FRA. Another good and convenient possibility is to fly with TAP Air Portugal, who have had strong ties to Brazil for decades. From Germany, it is possible to visit a much larger range of Brazilian destinations, although a mandatory stop is required in Lisbon before going to Brazil. TAP is currently the airline with the best connections between Brazil and Europe and has weekly flights to 10 Brazilian cities - Belém, Belo Horizonte, Brasilia, Fortaleza, Natal, Porto Alegre, Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and São Paulo. Finally, there are several other flight options, also with stopovers, to reach Brazil, through Air Europa, Alitalia, Air France, British Airways, among others that require a connection in their hubs.

34 | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | ITB l Berlin l March 2018

Gastronomy

Brazil: a mix of gastronomy and culture There is no denying that Brazil is a land of cultural diversity, but when the subject is gastronomy this plurality of colours and flavours becomes even more evident.

Marvellous spices, street food, traditional desserts and unique ingredients are part of this cultural mix, which includes European, indigenous and African traditions, making the country an international gastronomic hub with possibilities to suit all tastes.

We must start with the classic and loved throughout Brazil: feijoada. A mixture of black beans with pork and several accompaniments make the dish something essential if you visit the country. All this must be washed down with a traditional caipirinha.

Continuing through different regions, it is possible to find striking features of our cuisine. Among the highlights are

the roll cake from Pernambuco, which consists of guava jam and sponge cake and whose flavour goes far beyond what can be explained in a few lines, the baião de dois, a mixture of rice, seasoned beans (from Ceará), as well as crab, Capote, made with guinea fowl, and tapioca, a pastry that comes from cassava that can be stuffed with sweet and savory ingredients, present in almost all the states of the region. But as far as flavour is concerned, the best comes from the state of Bahia, which offers delicacies such as the bobó de camarão, moqueca, vatapá and acarajé.

Another food beloved and idolized by Brazilians is the barbecue. With different cuts of meat and preparation, the south of the country stands out in this area, mainly with the famous steamed rib, a method that roasts the meat in holes made in the ground.

The international culture can be even more appreciated in São Paulo, where it is possible to find Italian pasta, Portuguese desser ts and Japanese and Arabian food.

The state is still popular for its street food with the most famous being the pastel (deep fried pasty), coxinha (chicken cake) and mortadela Moqueca, traditional at coastal ham sandwich. regions, with seafood and spices

Bolo de Rolo, Brazilian dessert typical of the state of Pernambuco

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TAKING YOU GLOBALLY

Ministry of Tourism

Germany: a strategic market for Brazil for attracting international tourism With an eye on the potential of the European market, Brazil considers Germany as an important trading partner and also for attracting international tourism, whether for leisure or for business travel. According to the Minister of Tourism, Marx Beltrão, Germany integrates a framework of strategic countries considered priority among the main emitting destinations.

“Today, Germany is the seventh largest market for tourists visiting Brazil and we know that ecotourism, nature and adventure activities have a strong appeal on the travel plans of the Germans.

Among the 221,500 German tourists who visited Brazil in 2016, more than 32,000 were in search of activities within the segment. But the numbers are very small, especially considering that we are the number one country for natural resources, according to the World Economic Forum 2017”, he points out.

Marx Beltrão also acknowledges the need to expand air connectivity within the process of bringing the two countries closer together. “Our offer is structured and has the potential to double the visits of these tourists to Brazilian destinations and amplify the gains we have made with the German market. They spend more, stay longer than average foreigners and are charmed by our hospitality and gastronomy, as is shown by the latest research we have done with international tourists. All these attributes of ours have become a factor of competitiveness, however, only if we expand air connectivity between Brazil and Europe, a measure that has been worked on since the launch of the Brazil + Tourism Plan, in April this year. Of the 92.2% of Germans who wish to return to Brazil, we expect 100% of them to return completely satisfied, convincing those who have not yet had the opportunity to come here”, he points out. Currently 11 Brazilian airports receive direct flights originating from nine European countries, including Germany.

According to MTUR, tourism generates US$7 billion annually with international currency revenues and the goal is to reach

36 | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | ITB l Berlin l March 2018

Marx Beltrão, minister of Tourism

US$19 billion in five years. For this, the number of foreign tourists, currently in the range of 6.5 million, would have to reach 12 million in the next five years. According to the Minister of Tourism, Marx Beltrão, Brazil has large untapped potential. He admits that despite the advances made in the industry in recent years, there are still challenges to be overcome: “Under my management, tourism has advanced, but I recognize that we still have to go further. We are working towards this.”

As an example, he cites the program to ease visas for tourists from Australia, United States, Japan and Canada, which began being implemented last November.

“The idea is to meet with the tourism professionals of each of these countries to publicize this measure and expand Brazilian promotion. We want to attract even more foreign tourists and I believe that with the reduction of bureaucracy we will achieve this goal”, said the Minister of Tourism. With the new system, the visa is issued, a maximum of 72 hours after the tourist submits the request. This will also benefit business travellers.

According to the minister, the European market has gained a fundamental strategic

importance in the attracting international tourism program. “Europe, considering nations such as France, Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain and Portugal, is the second continent that sends most tourists to Brazil, losing out only to South American countries. However, they spend more during the trip and stay longer in Brazil than our neighbours, according to the MTUR’s international demand survey. Therefore, it is a market of great repercussion within Brazilian tourism.

The so-called Business Tourism is another segment that has contributed to fostering exchanges between Brazil and Germany. According to ministry data, business tourism boosts the local economy and contributes to the development of several Brazilian cities. The Brazilian presence has been accentuated at MICE fairs and should increase the entry of business tourists to Brazil, mainly due to the relationship with opinion formers and buyers who show interest in knowing more about the country’s infrastructure.

According to the MTUR and MICE trade fairs, which Brazil participated in 2016, generated a business expectation for Brazil of more than US$10 million.

Embratur

Brazil remains the destination offering the most natural beauty of the world EMBRATUR, the official Government body responsible for promoting Brazil abroad, emphasizes the importance of participating in the ITB editions, considering that this initiative is considered of vital importance for the simple fact that Germany is a key emitter of tourists for all Brazilian regions, occupying the second place in the European ranking, behind only France. The focus here is Nature Tourism, highlighting the national parks and ecology, and the interest from German tourists in this segment surpasses Sun & Beach.

The idea is to continue the marketing actions that were star ted in 2017, focusing on Sustainable Tourism, as the German market has appeal for nature tourism and cultural tourism. According to a study by Euromonitor International, the number of tourists in the Federal Conservation Units - parks and forests - grew by 11.5% in 2017. The document estimates that, this year, Brazil will reach a record number of 8.6 million tourists visiting national parks. The country ranks first in the WTTC (World Travel and Tourism Council) rankings on natural resources and national parks, due to its diversity of attractions and has a significant impact on this result.

The president of EMBRATUR, Vinicius Lummertz, considers this data extremely relevant, since growth is forecast in the nature segment and this represents a new tendency for the positioning of the sector. But he believes that it is possible to grow even more if the process of granting visitor support services, in the so-called Conservation Units, is accelerated to attract even more national and international tourists. “The solution for an even greater increase in the number of visitors in National Parks is the concession for private initiative.

The success stories of the Tijuca (Rio de Janeiro), Foz do Iguaçu (Parana) and Fernando de Noronha (Pernambuco) parks prove this need”, he says.

In his opinion, this growth represents the change of a country that shows that it can go far beyond Sun and Beach tourism

38 | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | ITB l Berlin l March 2018

Vinicius Lummertz, president of Embratur

and as the country’s greatest wealth is nature: “We are in a very good position because we are the country with the greatest potential in the world in terms of natural attractions for tourism”. He also points out that Brazil was voted by the international tourist magazine, Conde Nast Traveller, as the most beautiful country in the world in terms of natural beauty and by the American channel CNN as the “coolest country in the world.”

He thinks that concessions allow for the improvement of infrastructure and services provided to make Brazil more competitive and match the expectations created from these presidential elections.

The concession is one of the ways to foster the visitation and improvement of the services of units.

In Brazil, currently, there are 324 conservation units that cover 9% of the national territory. Of these, 72 are National Parks, located in all the units of the federation, totalling about 26 million hectares. Of this total, four already have

concession contracts established: Foz do Iguaçu (Parana), Tijuca (Rio de Janeiro), Fernando de Noronha (Pernambuco) and Serra dos Órgãos (Rio de Janeiro).

The growth in the number of visitors is directly linked to the improvements in infrastructure and services offered in these units. The number of visitors to the Tijuca Park, for example, rose from 700,000 at the beginning of the concession, to 1.8 million in 2017. The concession provides a quality leap for the entire public, with accessibility, cleaning and ongoing maintenance, in addition to professionalism of services and an experience with more information for tourists.

Three other federal conservation units are in this ongoing process: Brasilia National Park (Federal District), Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park (Goias) and Pau Brazil National Park (Bahia).

According to information from the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation of the Ministry of the Environment, the bidding documents for the concession processes have been suspended, awaiting a statement from the Federal Audit Court (TCU).

Last year, if EMBRATUR were not able to carry out the desired promotional actions and a more efficient commercial strateg y, due to the limitation of resources destined for promotion, the year begins with good prospects.

According to Vinicius Lummertz, the transformation of the Brazilian Tourism Institute into a development agency, with greater capital and a new management model, has moved Brazil forwards in the Capture and Promotion Program with the main emitting destinations. And the European market is within this strategy.

“I believe there is still room to grow more. And Brazil is starting to create a business-friendly environment, with new international flights, such as the Air France KLM hub, and those of Condor, between Recife and Munich, which help stimulate tourist flow between the two countries”, summed up the president of EMBRATUR.

Aviation

RIOgaleão: Latin America’s most modern foreign gateway

Foto Thiago Saramago

The airport is now capable of receiving 37 million passengers per year and was considered as the most punctual in Latin America in 2017. It was the first in the country to receive the title of ‘Friend of the Client’, which is an international seal of approval in customer service and service rendering. This is an airport that has brought back some of the pride of being a “carioca” (a Rio local). RIOgaleão - Tom Jobim International Airport started its transformation process to become one of the most modern, efficient and connected airports in Latin America in August 2017. The objective was to regain its global position as the tourism gateway to Brazil. Almost four years and a R$2 billion investment later, RIOgaleão is a new international airport. Passengers embarking and disembarking will see an entirely new and modern infrastructure, with diversified services and cutting-edge technology. The investment guaranteed the construction of a new boarding area, covering more than 100,000m2 and 26 additional boarding bridges, plus four stories in the car park building, totalling seven, the modernization of the terminal and the implementation of a new Operations Centre. Over 24,000m2 of shopping area, including shops and restaurants, have expanded the range

of airport options for visitors. In this new moment, RIOgaleão has more than 150 shopping and gastronomy points offering around 300 local and international brands, spread across options such as famous foreign brands and other brands that translate to the lifestyle of Rio. In January 2018, RIOgaleão recorded 35 improvements out of the 38 items that were evaluated during the passenger satisfaction survey run by the Ministry of Transport, Ports and Civil Aviation, which compared data from 2016 to 2017. The survey looked at the service provision and attribute notes from 1 to 5. In 2017, RIOgaleão presented 30 of the 38 notes above 4, while in 2016 the airport had 26 notes above this average. In the last quarter of 2017, RIOgaleão was evaluated as the airport that offers the best wi-fi service in the country. In 2017, it presented a new program to promote tourism in Rio de Janeiro. In partnership with companies, the concessionaire created the International Charters Incentive Program and developed a package with a series of discounts based on airport services to attract more flights and, thus, stimulate tourism and new business in the city. These are personalized services, such as a dedicated and specialized

infrastructure to attend groups of charters, assistance in identifying and providing links to tourism operators, local tourism agencies, hotels, tourist attractions and logistics companies in the city.

Last year was also marked by an increase in international flights. A number of new companies officially landed in Rio de Janeiro, while others decided to increase the number of flights they offer. This is why RIOgaleão invested in technology to be the most efficient airpor t in the countr y, improving the passenger experience. Agility in processing, operational improvement and dynamic and accessible information are some of the gains achieved from this investment. All this allows boarding and disembarkation to become a simpler process, benefitting travellers with increased levels of tranquillity.

Last year RIOgaleão was also marked by an increase in international flights New duty free area is one of the highlights of the airport renovation

Northeast Kaio Fragoso/Sedetur-AL

Famous Pajuçara Beach

Alagoas If you visit Alagoas, you may even think that you are in the Caribbean. But, in fact, it’s the Northeast of Brazil. One of the most crystalline waters in the country, which oscillates between blue and green, is also lukewarm and stimulates the enjoyment of many families that flock to the state’s natural pools. The North Coast of Alagoas, for example, is known as the Coral Coast, since it has the second largest barrier reef in the world. The coast stretches for 130km and is enhanced by the green of the coconut trees and the turquoise blue of the sea. It is difficult to not fall in love here.

The state capital, Maceió, known as the Paradise of Waters, as well as the sun and all the movement of the beach that enlivens the destination, offers its visitors lagoons, the crafts of Pontal da Barra, museums, mills, theatres and churches. It is definitely a complete city that fills the eyes of tourists. Just in the state capital, there are 40km of waterfront and 22km of lagoons, arousing a passion for its natural, cultural and historical beauties.

National and international gastronomy,

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genuine craftsmanship and rich history also make Maceió your next stop in Brazil. The urban beaches and natural pools occupy 6km of coastline, with bike paths, plenty of trees, a promenade and trendy beach bars.

At the beaches of Jatiúca, Ponta Verde and Pajuçara, it is possible to enjoy the charm of the city at any time of the day, since they are the most imposing of the state capital.

From Pontal da Barra the boats depart on the nine islands tour, scattered along the Mundaú Lagoon. During the tour you will visit fishing villages, mangrove vegetation, sandbanks and even some secluded beaches where the lagoon meets the sea.

It is good to remember that Maceió does not rely on its beaches alone. There are several museums, art galleries and historic neighbourhoods like Jaraguá and Centro, which preserve an architectural complex full of houses, churches and collections from an era that portrays the history of the city. There are also crafts: the pieces are produced by women called “rendeiras” in the district of Pontal da Barra, a quiet place inhabited by artisans and fishermen. The

Ministry of Culture recognizes these craftsmen as masters as they carry the wisdom to transform raw materials into art, culture and an identity.

It’s a mistake to think that the state capital of Alagoas is all about leisure. Maceió has a modern Convention Centre for events of different sizes. Its modern and air-conditioned structure caters comfortably and safely for tourists who come for business and events. Located just 5 minutes from the beachfront, where hotels, restaurants, shopping centres and leisure options are concentrated, the Convention Centre becomes an opportunity to turn a business trip into a mini holiday, as is now know by the term “bleisure”.

SÃO MIGUEL About 90 km from the capital, there is São Miguel dos Milagres, one of the most sought after places in Brazil to spend New Year’s Eve. You will find kilometres of almost deserted beaches, forming paradisiacal sceneries.

On every sidewalk, it is possible to find the local crafts of beautiful decorative pieces

Northeast carved into wood. It makes for a perfect place to take a photo to post on Instagram, two beaches deserve to be highlighted: Toque Beach, with calm, warm and clear water and fine white sand. The natural pools are another attraction for those who visit.

With superb and cozy guesthouses, Toque Beach also has good restaurants. Another highlight is the beach that is in the village of Porto da Rua, where there are many boats that lead to the mouth of the Tatuamunha River. From here, you can find places to enjoy local gastronomy based on seafood.

CORAL COAST The Coral Coast, on the North Coast of Alagoas, will immediately charm you.

There are vast coconut palms, beautiful

READ MORE

fine sandy beaches, a sea of warm water inhabited by extensive barriers of corals and, of course, the sun. The cities of the region still reveal true treasures formed by natural pools, rivers, ancient mills, rich cuisine, folkloric and artistic expressions, as well as great hospitality. It is during low tide that the beautiful natural pools appear in the fantastic coral barrier that integrates the Environmental Preservation Area - APA Costa dos Corais, created to protect the marine flora and fauna of the region.

In all, 130km of beautiful beaches form the Coral Coast, which has options for all tastes, including surfing, nautical sports and fishing.

State capital: MaceiĂł Website: sedetur.al.gov.br

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Farol da Barra (lighthouse), one of the main tourist attractions in Salvador

Northeast

Bahia The summer season in Bahia ends in March, but the state, a gateway to tourism in the Northeast, welcomes tourists throughout the whole year.

Just in in the last season alone, there were 5.6 million domestic and foreign visitors. And there are good reasons to get to know or visit Bahia again. Close to the state capital, Salvador, there is a privileged coastline with resorts such as Itacaré, Ilhéus and Morro de São Paulo amongst others, where thousands of foreign tourists soak up its charms.

The state is known as the birth of the country as it is where the Portuguese first landed.

Europeans arriving at the international airport, Antonio Carlos Magalhães in Salvador, immediately breathe in the tropical climate of pure relaxation and hospitality that captivate tourists.

After all, Bahia is known not only for sun and sea itineraries, but for its cultural Modelo Market and the Lacerda Elevator, two of the main postcards of Bahia

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wealth and Afro descendant diversity, which is expressed in religious syncretism, combining different beliefs, while blending practices of various schools of thought. This faith and religious mix can be observed in the various celebrations that take place in churches and artistic

venues.

The visiting Europeans, particularly Germans who visit the Northeast of Brazil, include Bahia in their itineraries.

After all there is a special interest in this north-eastern destination, the land of Jorge Amado, Dorival Caymi, Gilberto

Gil, Caetano Veloso and many other famous, local artists. And two factors contribute to bringing the European market even closer to Bahia. They say that in Bahia the summer lasts for the whole year. Certainly, the coast adorned with coconut trees lead the tourist to places near Salvador, such as Morro de São Paulo, Ilhéus and Itacaré, which are true oases of paradisiacal beaches that attract tourists throughout the year.

Another attraction of the state is its religious syncretism with its different expressions in “terreiros” (meeting places) and churches. It’s said that Salvador has 365 churches, one for each day of the year and many of them are hundreds of years old.

The gastronomy is a chapter apart.

The strong African influence is present in spices where palm oil gives a special flavour to moquecas (fish stew), vatapá and other regional delicacies.

In general, what impresses tourists the most is the atmosphere of the celebrations and permanent relaxation that floods the streets of the capital of Bahia.

Services - Bahia has excellent tourist

infrastructure, from charming guesthouses to five star hotels and resorts.

In the state capital there are tourism agencies that offer traditional city tours to destinations near Salvador.

How to enjoy the best of Bahia SALVADOR - When visiting the capital of Bahia, do not forget to walk along the slopes of Pelourinho with its friendly craft shops, cultural centres and restaurants, which are in the upper part of the City. Stroll through the historic centre of Salvador with 2,800 listed houses, of which 1,100 have already been renovated. Include a tour to some of the churches, as there are more than 300. In Pelourinho, you will find four; look out for San Francisco, which is adorned by altars and walls carved with 730kg of gold and stones.

Visit the Modelo Market with its stalls and regional products as there is a fantastic variety of regional products.

The Barra Lighthouse area has been redeveloped and now has a promenade where there is the most beautiful view of Salvador to enjoy at sunset.

COCOA COST - The Cocoa Coast is made up of 180km of coastline that connects the cities of Itacaré and Canavieiras. They form a true stronghold of natural beauty with rivers bordered by cocoa farms, deserted beaches, vast coconut palms and dense mangroves.

In the middle of the Atlantic forest, the region captivates through its landscapes and the opulence of the golden years of the “black gold”, as the cocoa was called. Canavieiras, Ilhéus, Itabuna, Itacaré, Santa Luzia, Una and Uruçuca offer varied options for visitors. The abundance of beaches includes everything, from surfing to fishing.

MORRO DE SÃO PAULO - By car, bus or catamaran you arrive at this paradisiacal place located no more than 60km from Salvador. It is part of an archipelago of 26 islands and only three of them are inhabited. It is a district of the city of Cairú, an island belonging to the archipelago of Tinharé. It offers paradisiacal beaches of clear water and white sand, besides coconut groves and Atlantic forest that make up the perfect scenery for visitors to this paradise.

Porto Seguro, the birthplace of Brazil In the South Coast of Bahia one of the highlights is the city of Porto Seguro, which together with the districts of Arraial D’Ajuda and Trancoso, stand

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out for coastal beauty and for being considered as foundations of the Discovery of Brazil. With more than 140,000 inhabitants, Porto Seguro is the gateway to the Northeast of Brazil. Listed by IPHAN (Institute of National Historical and Artistic Heritage) is also recognized

by UNESCO as a Natural Patrimony of Humanity.

The Historic Centre is a must-see option. It is possible, through the contemplation of the remnant houses, to return to the period of discovery by walking among the centenary churches and cultural centres. The houses of the Historical City were the first housing nucleus in Brazil. Be sure to visit the surrounding indigenous communities that welcome groups of tourists. There you can see rich craftsmanship and their culture. A stroll through the surroundings leads to Arraial D’Ajuda, a district that stands out for the uncluttered climate and charm of its seaside guesthouses that also boast rich gastronomy. This itinerary extends to Trancoso and access is made by ferry. It is the destination of many Europeans in search of natural beauty, tranquillity amidst cozy guesthouses and rich gastronomy.

Water sports

READ MORE Capital: Salvador Website: www.setur.ba.gov.br

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Northeast

Ceará Coastline of Beira Mar Avenue, in Fortaleza, has several attractions during the day and night

The state of Ceará, located in the north-eastern region of Brazil, is the perfect place for those seeking sun, beach and beautiful scenery. The destination is known for harbouring some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, such as Jericoacoara, Canoa Quebrada and Cumbuco. And this coastal environment can already be felt in the capital Fortaleza, which boasts 13 beaches, primarily the Futuro Beach, which is one of the busiest in the region. Stretching for approximately 8km, the beach has several bars and restaurants and is busy especially on Thursday nights as it is the traditional day of the crab. Another highlight is Iracema Beach, where the famous Beira-Mar Avenue is located. It has several kiosks and stalls for those in need of a cold drink and seafood.

The sunset from Ingleses Bridge is a must-see if you visit the region, as well as the Dragão do Mar, a cultural complex that houses museums, a library and venues for the diffusion of activities such as theatre and cinema.

Opened in 1999, it is also famous for its modern architecture. If you are looking to experience nightlife, there are innumerable options of concert halls, covering several musical genres. In most of them the music alternates between forró, xote and xaxado.

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Cumbuco Beach, at the West Coast

rism, that capital of Ceará is known for.

Fortaleza has the highest GDP among the country’s north-eastern state capitals, which makes it a great attraction for the MICE market. The city also has one of the most modern convention centres in Latin America, the Centre of Events of Ceará, which was inaugurated in 2012. The venue occupies a total area of 206,000m2, of which 185,000m2 is built on.

In addition to its infrastructure, the city also has another asset to attract

more and more tourists: connectivity.

From May 2018, the city will receive direct flights from Paris and Amsterdam, with Air France and KLM. In addition, it will have its regional hub reinforced by the Brazilian Airline, Gol. The new routes join other international flights already available to the city such as Lisbon (TAP), Miami (Latam), Bogota (Avianca), Frankfurt (Condor) and Buenos Aires (Gol).

Northeast BEYOND THE CAPITAL If, in Fortaleza, it is possible to merge beaches, nightlife and business, it is in another of the state’s famous cities that tourists, interested in beautiful landscapes, stay. The closest to them is the beach of Cumbuco, located in the city of Caucaia, about 30km from Fortaleza. Considered as one of the first stops for those heading towards the West Coast of Ceará, Cumbuco remains a small village, but visitors can find services of various categories and prices, among restaurants, hotels and guesthouses. Among the main attractions is the Banana Lagoon, where you can enjoy various water sports, such as kayaking, motor boating and banana boating, as well as the famous “esquibunda” (sandboard).

On the east side we have Aquiraz, which houses the Beach Park, considered as one of the five best water parks in the

world, according to TripAdvisor. On the East Coast, it is still possible to find the cliff route, where you can find almost 200km of beaches.

The highlight is the Aracati, where the famous beach of Canoa Quebrada is located, is the busy night on Broadway Street, which has several bars and restaurants. Whoever visits Canoa Quebrada can take a buggy and visit several local landscapes. The last stop is Icapuí, the land of the lobster, which is formed by three main beaches: Ponta Grossa, Redonda and Peroba. They have exotically formed cliffs and are stained in colours ranging from red to orange.

JERICOACOARA: THE STATE PARADISE At the end of the West Coast, tourists find one of the most paradisiacal places in Brazil. The city of Jijoca de

Jericoacoara is an inspiring setting, with paradisiacal beaches, crystal clear waters and white dunes. The destination brings together scenarios that seem never to have been touched by human beings. Located 300km from Fortaleza, Jericoacoara impresses immediately because of its beauty and simplicity.

The beach has about 130 lodging facilities, ranging from simple guesthouses to five-star hotels, as well as pharmacies, supermarkets and other commercial activities that cater for most tourists’ needs. Among the main attractions are Pedra Furada, one of the best known Jericoacoara postcards, which is located in the rocky region of Jericoacoara, the Dune of the Sunset and the Blue and Paradise Lagoons that are famous for their crystal clear waters and their hammocks, that allow tourists to relax just above the water.

This destination, that is already very popular is set to receive more tourists from now on. To visit Jericoacoara, was, until recently, only accessible by car from Fortaleza.

It can now be made by plane, due to the inauguration of the local airport in June.

READ MORE Capital: Fortaleza Website: www.setur.ce.gov.br

da, main Pedra Fura

postcard

oara of Jericoac

Iracema Beach, in Fortaleza

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Northeast SeturPE

Pernambuco

Old Recife, in the central region, attracts many visitors

The expression “heart of the northeast” used by the state of Pernambuco in one of its recent marketing campaigns may at first sound pretentious, but if you analyse a little of the state’s tourism and social development in recent years, you will see meaning behind this phrase.

The state, which has tourism as one of its main economic activities, invested in promotion and flights to become the gateway for international tourists in the northeast, in addition to having great appeal from tourists from other states in the region. One of the pillars of this is the hub of the Airline Azul, which now has direct connections to the whole of Brazil.

In addition, there are direct flights to Portugal (TAP), the United States (American Airlines), Argentina (Gol and Latam), Italy (Meridiana), Germany (Condor), and more recently Spain, with Air Europa.

But one of Pernambuco’s strengths is the 187km long coastline where you will find inviting settings of paradisiacal beaches that promote the magnitude and historical 46 | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | ITB l Berlin l March 2018

importance of its cultural traditions, such as the festivities of Carnival and São João (June Festival).

The beauties and traditions begin with the state capital Recife, one of the oldest cities in Brazil and known for its artistic and cultural heritage. The city is divided by three large rivers (Capibaribe, Beberibe and Tejipió) and due to these, the city has many bridges and without which, it would be impossible to get around. This characteristic of the capital of Pernambuco provides beautiful boat trips along the rivers, generally held in the late afternoon and evening.

Boa Viagem Beach is a spectacle both for visitors and for those who can see it from above, due to the barrier of natural reefs that protect it, which are also the origin of the city’s name. The waterfront is also considered as a worthy attraction and has a park, garden and venues for sports. In the historical part, Recife has some of the oldest churches in the country, all in an excellent state of conservation, with their original preserved ships and great historical heritage.

Porto de Galinhas

Northeast The city has good hotel infrastructure and great gastronomic options, with the presence of the main restaurant chains in the country.

PORTO DE GALINHAS Those who are even more interested in sun, beach and spectacular scenery find what they are looking for just 43km from the state capital, in the city of Ipojuca, where one of the most sought after beaches by national and international tourists is located: Porto de Galinhas. The beach has been chosen many times as the best beach in Brazil by tourism magazines. It allures at first sight with its natural pools that give tourists the possibility of swimming among dozens of shoals and relaxing by in the warm waters when the immense coral formation is visible. The pools formed are very close to the sand strip and can be reached by swimming or on beautiful raft rides, where the entire coastline can be observed from. It is perfect for diving and ideal for children as the sea is always calm. Those who visit Porto de Galinhas can enjoy buggy tours as well, which allow you to visit the beautiful beaches nearby.

Among them is Maracaípe, considered as a surfers’ paradise. In addition to the natural beauties, Porto de Galinhas has excellent hotel infrastructure, which includes large resorts, hotels and guesthouses, as well as several restaurant, bars and nightclubs.

Morro Dois Irmãos, the most famous postcard at Fernando de Noronha

FERNANDO DE NORONHA Fernando de Noronha is one of the most beautiful places in the world. The statement, which may seem exaggerated, is confirmed by anyone who has visited the archipelago, located 545km from Recife. Formed from volcanic rocks, it is a Natural Heritage of Humanity. Only the main island is inhabited, which is home to the administrative centre.

Before being an important centre for environmental preservation and research, today’s coveted destination was a prison.

Part of the structure built to retain detainees can still be visited. Later, the archipelago became a military base during World War II. The facilities erected during the period currently serve as a tourist centre.

Fernando de Noronha is considered as one of the main tourist attractions in the state and the natives who work in the

Boa Viagem Beach, postcard of Recife

local tourism agencies go through constant training. However, visits have limited numbers, so it is important to schedule your trip in advance. The island is a good option for diving as the sea offers visibility of up to 30 meters. Those who cannot or do not want to dive can visualize the underwater life through the Navi - Natureza Viva Project, which consists of a vessel with a large lens at the bottom that allows observation of the marine environment. For the surfers among us, Fernando de Noronha is one of the best destinations in South America. The tubular waves have given it the nickname of the Brazilian Hawaii.

Through the oceanic forest you can trek to the beautiful viewing platforms.

In the evening, the forró music, the local beat, brings together tourists and natives.

READ MORE Capital: Recife Website: www.recife.pe.gov.br

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Northeast

Rio Grande do Norte Shutterstock

Pipa Beach is today one of the five most visited destinations in the state

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With more than 400km of coastline, it is natural that the most popular destinations in Rio Grande do Norte are the beaches. Other than beaches, notable attractions of the state are its natural pools that are formed during low tide. Set among the coral reefs, the pools form in holes where seawater accumulates, then, heated by the sun, make lovely warm water swimming pools.

Buggy rides will always be high on tourists’ list but there is much more to be explored. The state also has the richness of mangroves, preserved areas of Atlantic Forest and an environment conducive to diving.

Those looking to see the beautiful beaches of the destination will not be disappointed with the variety on offer.

On the North Coast is the Maracajaú Beach, which is surrounded by dunes, coconut trees and lagoons. The main attraction of this beach is the coral reef with crystalline waters that are rich in coral fish, making it suitable for snorkelling.

Towards the South, there is Tibau do Sul, where tourists are enchanted by ecological diversity, almost deserted beaches frequented by dolphins and turtles, as well as a landscape composed of dunes, cliffs and natural pools. At its limit is the famous Pipa Beach.

Pipa, in the 1980’s, was just a hard-toreach village of hippies and fishermen, and today it is one of the most trendy and cosmopolitan beaches in Brazil.

The beach is one of the five most visited destinations in the state and certainly one of the most famous beaches in the Brazilian Northeast. With rising fame, the destination gained importance and now boasts a hectic nightlife but, at the same time, without losing any of its charm and natural beauty.

The area combines paradisiacal scenery, such as the Chapadão, a cluster of cliffs that form an immense sea wall; and warm water beaches where dolphins swim with tourists, in Dolphin Bay. In Pipa, you will find people from all over the world, after all, it is the most international beach in Rio

Northeast Grande do Norte. Cliffs, calm waters, an Ecological Sanctuary, the richness of the preserved Atlantic Forest, the charm of the beaches are other attractions that make Pipa an almost obligatory passage.

Not mentioning the gastronomic variety and its cultural diversity.

Another beach quite famous and visited by tourists is São Miguel do Gostoso. The city is 120km from Natal. One interesting detail draws attention to the beaches of this small locality: the sun sets in the sea, instead on land, as happens in the rest of Brazil. This phenomenon is made possible by the geographical positioning of the city,

right on the corner of the continent.

The strong winds are considered excellent for windsurfing, and it is already a worldwide reference for the sport. This movement of tourists and international sportsmen come to the city guesthouses and restaurants for a good night out.

BEYOND THE BEACHES The tourism in the interior of the state stands out mainly for the Carnival celebrations, São João (June Festival) and other religious dates. However, the demand for gastronomic and literary festivals has grown considerably. For

Riotur

The Reis Magos Fortress was the state capital’s first building and the view to the sea is one of the most beautiful in the city

In addition to buggies, a camel ride through Natal’s dunes is a great option

those who like cold weather, the temperatures of the mountainous regions of Monte das Gameleiras, Martins and Serra de São Bento reach 15 degrees and are an invitation to enjoy a conversation around a campfire.

About 99km from the state capital, in Sítio Novo, you will find the Castle of Zé dos Montes and it was built in 1984

by Zé do Montes. He says he received the divine mission of building the castle among the stones of the Serra da Tapuia. When approaching, the castle suddenly appears out of nowhere. It is full of labyrinths and belvederes and inside, all the paths converge towards the centre of the castle, where there is a chapel in honour of Our Lady.

THE STATE CAPITAL The state capital Natal is a city full of natural and cultural attractions for tourists.

Among the highlights are the Historic Centre, where you will find old churches and 19th century buildings in neoclassical design.

Vist the Dunes Park (Parque das Dunas), the second largest park in the urban area of the country spread out over more than 1,000 hectares of dunes and Atlantic forest. Another must do is the Coastal Way. It is a 10km coastal path that connects the beach of Ponta Negra to the beaches of the city centre.

The Ponta Negra Beach is the busiest in the capital and stands out for the look of Morro do Careca, a giant dune flanked by Atlantic forest, one of the main picture postcards of the state.

The Reis Magos Fort is worth a visit as well, as it was the first building constructed in the capital in 1599. Here, you can see the open sea, the Newton Navarro Bridge over the Potengi river and the mangrove swamp that is the home to many crabs. Finally, don’t miss the Craft Centre, a historic building that housed a former prison in the last century and today brings together the best of the Potiguar handicrafts.

READ MORE Capital: Natal Website: www.rnbrasil.tur.br

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Foto: Alexandre Macieira - Riotur

Southeast

Rio de Janeiro Christ, The Redeemer always with open arms for Guanabara Bay

“Marvellous City, full of charm.

Marvellous City, heart of my Brazil”. The song, created in the 1960s by André Filho, and, until today, played during carnival in Rio, shows why the city causes envy in other places. Despite all its problems, Rio de Janeiro is the Marvellous City of the immense Brazil, the great and official gateway for foreign tourists.

Modern and revitalized, the capital of Rio de Janeiro has undergone a major transformation since 2007, when it held the Pan American Games. Since then,

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the city has hosted, World Youth Day, the Confederations Cup, the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games and together, they dictated and changed the pace of the city.

Considered as a worldwide megalopolis, today Rio de Janeiro boasts 58,000 hotel rooms and a tourist infrastructure capable of looking after all its visitors.

It wasn’t only the venues that were created or modernized for the megaevents. A new public transportation system, hundreds of new hotels, a renovated airport, attractions such as the Museum

of Tomorrow, Boulevard Olímpico and AquaRio, the largest aquarium in South America, and the development of Rio’s society, who really learnt how to look after tourists, are part of this legacy.

Among the new products, attractions and hotels, Rio de Janeiro has also gained a new tourist destination: Barra da Tijuca, about 35km from the city centre. Until the 1990s, people looking to live so far from the city centre were considered crazy but everything has changed now. The Olympics main district gained no less than 10,500

Foto: Alexandre

Southeast

Foto: Alexandre Macieira - Riotur

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Olympic Park, on

PETRÓPOLIS The cultural and natural diversity of Rio de Janeiro is enormous. About 70km

from the capital, Petropolis is one of the great destinations of the rich mountainous region. Known as the Imperial City, it is considered as the second projected city in Brazil (after Recife, designed during the time of the Dutch invasion), being composed of an urban nucleus - the centre, where the Imperial Palace, public buildings, commerce and services are.

At the time, members of the Portuguese court were enchanted by the region.

From then on, during the summer, the city became the capital of the Empire of Brazil. Today, it is known for its beautiful architecture, tranquillity and, of course, a milder climate compared to the heat of Rio de Janeiro. Among the main attractions are the Imperial Museum, Quitandinha Palace and Santos Dumont House.

The Imperial Museum functions in the former Imperial Palace of Petrópolis, the summer residence of D. Pedro II and one of his favourite places. It is here that the public can find out a bit about the history of the Brazilian Empire and about the imperial family. The Santos Dumont House

Cable car and Morro da Urca seen from Sugar Loaf

was built in 1918 and is the only house the aviator made for himself during his lifetime: a small alpine-style chalet in the Morro do Encanto, in the Historic Centre of Petrópolis. Known as “Encantada” (Enchanted), the house is now the second most visited museum in the city.

Finally, the Quitandinha Palace, which was built in 1944 with the purpose of being the largest casino in South America. The Norman-French style covers 50,000m2 across 6 floors, divided into 440 apartments and 13 large halls up to 10m in height.

Foto: Alexandre Macieira - Riotur

new rooms in just two years. And the public transportation infrastructure, with a new metro line to the neighbourhood, has followed the rapid development of the region. At its side, is Recreio dos Bandeirantes and together they form a beautiful 17km long waterfront that has already been taken over by big hotels.

The neighbourhood grew and was ready to host the Rio 2016 Olympics but today it is in the tourists’ spotlight. To get a sense of Barra da Tijuca’s infrastructure, the neighbourhood has more movie theatres than the rest of Rio de Janeiro put together.

That’s right, you will also find the largest mall in Brazil (in terms of quantity of stores) in the famous Barra Shopping. It is also here that you find the Bosque da Barra, an unforgettable tour to be close to nature, the most beautiful beaches of the city: Prainha and Grumari, although further away from the hustle and bustle Barra.

It is in Barra da Tijuca where the largest convention centre in Latin America is found, Riocentro. It is also here where “Rock in Rio” takes place. There is also the City of the Music and as well the Jeunesse Arena, home to great national and international shows.

Large companies have their headquarters here also. From Monday to Friday, Barra da Tijuca is considered’ the largest business centre outside the centre of Rio. Many say that, in 20 years, Barra da Tijuca will be more imposing than the city centre itself, bringing together residential condominiums and hundreds of business centres. Discover Barra, stay in Barra and be enthralled.

Aerial view of Aterro do Flamengo and Marina da Glória

READ MORE Capital: Rio de Janeiro Website: www.visit.rio

March 2018 l Berlin l ITB | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | 51

Sudeste

São Paulo

Luz Station is one of the main stops for trains and subway trains in São Paulo, joining lines that lead from Rio Grande da Serra to Jundiaí

With a population of approximately 45 million, a number that represents 21.7% of the population of Brazil, it is not surprising that the state of São Paulo may seem intimidating and far from appeasing to visitors. But with just a little bit of curiosity and research, the options are evident and after, you will only need a notebook and a pen to draw up your itinerary.

The capital of São Paulo is a world by itself and every month welcomes people from all over the world offering them hundreds of hotels, restaurants, bars and night clubs, among other places that transform São Paulo’s nightlife into true experiences, not to mention the various historical sites, museums and parks that form the culture and nature of the so called “concrete jungle”.

Last December, for example, São Paulo hosted the Comic Con Experience (CCXP), which brought together thousands of ‘geek culture’ fans together at the São Paulo Expo.

Fans at the expo were able to see iconic figures, such as authors and illustrators of comics, actors and actresses of famous series and movies, among others.

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Sé Cathedral, a neoclassical style building, took 40 years to complete

The event, however, is only one of the examples of the diverse and comprehensive culture of the city, which stages important conferences and meetings for any segment.

There are also numerous historical places and museums, like the Pinacoteca, next to the monumental and symbolic Estação da Luz, and MASP, the famous building lying on the main avenue of the city, Paulista Avenue, bringing together different works

of art and travelling exhibitions. Culture is far from sparse in São Paulo.

For anyone who wants to appreciate art, but is not to keen on being indoors, then why not take advantage of an open-air exhibition? The Alley of Batman (Beco do Batman), in the village of Madalena, right next to the Pinheiros district, has graffiti painted on walls, covering the whole area, making it one of the most emblematic and

iconic scenes of the capital. The area is the setting for several photographic essays, from wedding albums to modelling.

In addition, it is always good to visit the large parks and wooded areas to escape a bit of the city and to just enjoy the nature in the middle of the largest city in Latin America. This is exactly what Ibirapuera Park, not far from Paulista Avenue, and Vila Lobos Park provide. It is common for residents of the capital to visit these places sporadically and have a picnic or enjoy themselves by exercising in the tranquil environment amongst the trees. Ibirapuera also has a planetarium, right in the centre of the park, which allows visitors to observe constellations and get to know even more about the stars during the midday sun.

You cannot enjoy the best of the capital without filling your stomach. So, do not miss the rich and diverse gastronomy of the city, that ranges from food trucks and street snack bars, which offer all kinds of food, to the most diverse types of restaurants with cuisine from around the world:

Mexico, Japan, Greece, China, Turkey, Saudi Arabia etc. You choose the destination and São Paulo will transport you to different countries of specialized cuisine.

If you are looking for adventure and nature, it is worth checking out the small city of Brotas, located approximately 250km away from São Paulo. With a population of 23,000, the city is home to several B&Bs, which mix the best of natural life and the comfort of the best hotels. They have options for lovers of extreme sports like rafting, trekking and climbing, among others, and these sports can be practised in the dense Atlantic forest that covers a good part of the municipality.

Among the main attractions and activities that the small town offers, is spending the day at the Areia Canta farm. You will be able to see the waterfalls in Recanto das Cachoeiras, stroll through Parque das Saltos and enjoy a walk.

When passing through the state of São Paulo, it is worth checking what Brotas has for the most passionate of tourists.

Foto - Brotas.com.br

Southeast

Rafting on Brotas stream is one of the main activities of the city

The Ibirapuera Park is one of the largest leisure options to escape from the concrete jungle of the capital

READ MORE Capital: São Paulo Website: www.visitesaopaulo.com

The Liberdade District, in São Paulo, has architecture, restaurants and shops focused on Japanese culture

Southeast

Minas Gerais

The city of Ouro Preto is a true open-air museum

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Southeast

TIRADENTES Thanks to its rich historical heritage, the city of Tiradentes is often chosen to act as a set for historical movies and miniseries.

The city’s calendar is filled with events such as the traditional Street Carnival and Holy Week, the Film Festival, the Harley Davidson Gathering and the Gastronomic Festival.

One of the main tourist attractions in the city is the Matriz church of Santo Antônio.

The church, which began being built in 1710, was made in a baroque style and adorned with rococo. It still has a privileged view of the Serra de São José, which skirts the city. In this church it is also possible to see the sundial that makes up one of the most beautiful places of the city.

BELO HORIZONTE Born as the first planned metropolis of the republican period, the state capital, Belo Horizonte, is a city that has innovation as its main feature. The capital was conceived from the drawing board of national and foreign architects, artists and urban Belotur

Architectural complex of Pampulha, in Belo Horizonte, was designed by Oscar Niemeyer

without thinking of its rich gastronomy.

From cheese bread, chicken with okra, feijão tropeiro (Brazilian Beans with Sausage and Collard Greens), chicken, ribs, crackling and diverse cheeses. Now we need to mention the deserts. There are so many that it would take a lifetime to taste each one: dulce de leche, banana, guava, fig, pé de moleque (peanuts with sugar), ambrosia ... The choices are mouth watering and finger licking good. And what better way to wash it all down? With a craft cachaça.

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Minas Gerais is the largest state in the south-eastern region of Brazil, covering more than 580,000km2. This a destination for those who seek good food, nature, mountains, architecture, art, culture, history and friendly people. Although there are no beaches, it offers so many other activity options that it is easy to choose to stay for a few more days to explore each corner.

It has been the stage of several important events in the history of Brazil, such as the Gold Cycle, the Inconfidence of Minas Gerais and the Coffee Cycle. Minas has the most important architectonic and artistic collection from the Brazilian colonial period that has been preserved in cities of international fame such as Ouro Preto, Diamantina and Congonhas do Campo.

They are rich in the profusion of Baroque masterpieces and are centennial cities that tell of the grandeur of Brazil’s history.

For those who want to connect with nature, a good tip is the city of Conceição de Ibitipoca. The state park is packed with waterfalls, trails and caves. If you are in good shape then take the 16km walk – out and back - to the Janela do Céu (Window of Heaven), a waterfall with a natural viewing platform more than 100 meters high with a unique view of the surroundings formed by trees and mountains.

At night, a stroll through the village with its craft shops is a relaxing option. Then make sure you have one of the best pizzas in the area, accompanied by a craft beer.

In the high season the city hosts festivals of forró, jazz and blues.

You cannot talk about Minas Gerais

Maria Fumaça, in Tiradentes, is one of the symbols of Minas Gerais

READ MORE Capital: Belo Horizonte Website: www.turismo.mg.gov.br

planners, and it is still constantly changing.

One of the main architectural works in the city is the Modern Assembly of Pampulha, which influenced an entire school of designers around the world, and whose buildings were designed by the architect Oscar Niemeyer early in his career. They are complemented by works from Cândido Portinari, Alfredo Ceschiatti , Augusto Zamoyski, Paulo Werneck and José Alves Pedrosa, as well as landscape treatment conceived by Roberto Burle Marx.

INHOTIM Just over an hour and a half from Belo Horizonte, the city of Brumadinho is home to one of the largest contemporary art and natural park complexes in the region. The largest open-air museum in the world, Instituto Inhotim has 1,300 works of art, of which 700 are exhibited in a space covering 140 hectares. The works, distributed across galleries indoors and out, stir the senses and invite tourists to reflect on the climate, nature, passion and more.

Unlike traditional museums, it is surrounded by walls and moved by artificial light, Inhotim allows visitors to spend hours walking from one side of the park to the other. Leaving a gallery full of concrete and information and facing the intense green of the grass and the landscape composed of trees, flowers and a lake of water sometimes blue sometimes green it is like clearing the eyes and the senses before interacting with the next piece of art.

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Southeast

Espírito Santo

Aerial view shows how the capital unites the urban with the beautiful beaches and landscapes in Espírito Santo

Divided into ten Tourist Regions, Espírito Santo state brings together leisure, business, events, gastronomy, culture, history and natural beauty. The distinctive combination of sea and mountains, the contrast between tradition and modernity, excitement and tranquillity, sports and cultural events, interweave a must-see and adventure-filled itinerary with plenty of discovery and a lot of fun. In less than 40 minutes it is possible to escape from the scorching heat of the beaches to a milder European-style mountain climate.

With rich gastronomy, the highlight is the famous Moqueca Capixaba, and the only way to eat it is with your hands, which means there is lots of finger licking.

Fish based, the dish is a stew made with tomato, onion, olive oil, spices and annatto seeds, which is a red plant widely used by indigenous people for colouring fabric and it is also used for face and body painting.

As side dishes go, you should taste pirão (flour with fish sauce) and mashed banana, a combination that seems to have been blessed by the gods and your mouth will water just from the smell.

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have suffered a strong European influence, where the German, Italian, Austrian, Pomeranian and Polish traditions are maintained until the present day. It is possible to see this heritage in culture, history, music, dance, gastronomy and traditional festivals. Due to the climate, the region, which is composed by eight cities (Afonso Cláudio, Brejetuba, Castelo, Conceição do Castelo, Domingos Martins, Laranja da Terra, Marechal Floriano, Vargem Alta and Venda Nova do Imigrante) is highly sought after during the winter by tourists who wish to feel like they are in another country.

VITÓRIA Comprised of six cities: Cariacica, Fundão, Guarapari, Serra, Viana, Vila Velha and Vitória, the Metropolitan Region has a wide variety of tourist attractions.

Cosmopolitan Vitória is the state capital and offers a range of possibilities for tourists. With busy nightlife, the city is famous for its bars and nightclubs. During the day, a good tip is to sit back and have a drink at one of the kiosks by the beaches that surround the city.

Beaches, gastronomy, religious tourism, folklore, historical heritage, theatres,

museums, adventure tourism, ecotourism, parks, events, sport fishing, agro tourism, music and the richness of the local music all form part of the local tourism. There are also business and leisure options in the region.

Over a bridge from Vitória - the famous Deputy Darcy Castello de Mendonça Bridge, or Third Bridge, as it is called by the locals, stretches for 3,3 km (A PONTE TEM 3,3 Km SEGUNDO O WIKIPEDIA E NAO 12km COMO ESTAVA ESCRITO. FAVOR VERIFICAR) -, is Vila Velha, the oldest city in the state. For this reason, the city counts on diverse colonial constructions, like the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Fort of San Francisco Xavier de Piratininga, the Lighthouse of Santa Luzia and the Convent of Penha, the latter being one of the main tourist attractions in Espírito Santo, built between the 16th and 17th centuries and listed as Cultural Historical Heritage by the Institute of National Historical and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN) in 1943.

Once upon a time, it was an old fishing village, but is now home to the second largest industrial hub in the state. If you would like to explore the past, Barra do Jacu and Ponta da Fruta are places that

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still preserve the characteristics of a village and retain a lot of folklore and the way of life. For surfers, the obligatory stop is at Baleia Beach, due to its big waves and white, fluffy sandy beaches, the water is cold but is an intense tone of blue.

GUARAPARI The main tourist city in Espírito Santo, Guarapari is one of the most sought after destinations in the state. Not only for its natural beauties and beaches with enchanting landscapes, but also for its monazite sands. Such sands are well known for their therapeutic effects,

being popularly used to treat arthritis and inflammation. According to scholars, when applied to the skin, it produces a kind of radiation that stimulates tissues and improves blood circulation.

With beaches surrounded by bars and kiosks that attract tourists looking for a night out in the trendy bars close to Meaípe and Enseada Azul, to deserted sandy strips and wild vegetation for those looking for some quiet days away from civilization, on the beaches of Sebastião and Padres, Guarapari is a destination that meets the most diverse requirements.

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PEDRA AZUL STATE PARK If you are seeking nature, ecotourism and adventure, a good tip is to explore the Pedra Azul State Park. It offers various entertainment options, such as tree climbing, ziplining, biking, quad biking, horse riding and more. There are also several farms, where you will find agro and rural tourism, with its artisan beer tasting and local products such as cheeses, coffee, organic fruits and others.

READ MORE Capital: Vitória Website: www.setur.es.gov.br

March 2018 l Berlin l ITB | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | 57

JPLIMA

Norte View of the city of Manaus from the middle of the Amazon River

Amazonas Whether for its unique culture, its natural beauty or the reputation of being an exotic destination, the truth is that Amazonas is one of the darling states for foreigners. It has been receiving more and more international tourists who are looking for the most beautiful landscapes in Brazil, coupled with typical and extremely particular gastronomy and the most diverse of adventures.

This is a destination for all profiles, as long as they are seeking the essence of Brazil. From bird watching, sport fishing, ecotourism, adventure tourism, cruising, cultural tourism with its dances and traditional festivals, to the busy corporate market, where you can find something for every audience. It is in the Amazon that you will find the colour, the diversity and the plurality of the largest country in South America.

One of the most sought after experiences are the lodges that are located within the Amazon Rainforest. From the more luxurious

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to the more rustic, you will have permanent contact with nature, an experience that includes not only breathing in the air that is a little purer here, but seeing wild animals up close and even feeding some of them, like the coatis, monkeys and macaws that love to feast from the hands of tourists.

The middle of the forest offers two possibilities. During the rainy season, the water level rises and areas become flooded, forming paths of igapรณs (flooded forests) that can be traversed on small boats. During the dry period, visitors can walk along the various trails.

If you visit during the month of June, the famous Parintins Festival takes place.

This is one of the biggest folkloric events in Amazonas. During the three nights of partying, a theatrical presentation shows the Red Garantido Ox and the Blue Capricious Ox show regional legends, indigenous rituals and the riverside customs to the sound of local beats.

JPLIMA

Meeting of Negro and Solimões Rivers is one of the symbols of the North region of the country

North

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MANAUS With 1.8 million inhabitants, Manaus, the state capital of Amazonas, is one of the most populous cities in the country and is still among the top 20 cities in Latin America for business. One of the host cities of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the city has been completely renovated, with improvements to hotel infrastructure, urban and service provision. The city even offers a convention centre with capacity for up to 4,500 people.

The main attractions in the city revolve around historical and cultural heritage, such as the Amazonas Theatre, built in 1881 and inaugurated in 1896. Its 19th-century art nouveau architecture comes into harmony with other structures built at the same time, when the capital prospered thanks to the Rubber Cycle.

Enjoy your stay in the city to savour the Amazonian cuisine. Based on fish and fruit, the gastronomy has curious names such as the jaraqui, tambaqui, pacu and matrinxã fish, besides internationally known delicacies such as açaí, cupuaçu and guaraná.

Be sure to sample one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, up to three meters long and weighing 250kg, the pirarucu. When accompanied by yellow flour and acai, it is a culinary delight.

BY BOAT The best way to visit the area is by boat, whether on a larger river cruise or on smaller boats, they both sail through the world’s largest drainage basin. Archipelagos with hundreds of islands - and beaches - cut through the landscape. You will be able to see alligators, pink dolphins, waders and small rodents.

The mandatory attraction is, without a doubt, the phenomenon called the Meeting of Waters, when the lighter brown waters of the Solimões River and the dark waters of the Negro River, run along side each other for many kilometers. This is Manaus’s greatest reference in Intangible Heritage.

For those looking for a little more comfort, the city of Manaus receives more than 20 cruise ships per season, with itineraries for all tastes: gastronomic cruises, singles tours, shows with renowned artists, parties led by famous DJs and themed itineraries such as fitness.

READ MORE Capital: Manaus Website: www.amazonastur.am.gov.br Amazonas Theatre, one of the classic postcards of the capital

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North

Pará

Photo: JOÃO RAMID

Alter do Chão é considerada uma das mais belas praias do mundo

Alter do Chão is considered as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world

Rivers, beaches, mangroves, forests, flood plains, vast fauna and flora, gastronomy, history and culture make up a large part of the tourism of Pará. Each of the state’s tourist regions presents different characteristics, which when combined form a mosaic of ways to relate and experience these elements.

For ecotourism lovers, the local Amazon Rainforest is an excellent opportunity for observing birds and wild animals, for sport fishing, boat trips, canoeing along the tributaries and swimming in the Tapajós River.

Original, creative and authentic, the cuisine is a mixture of indigenous, African and European heritages that helped give an origin to the region. Tacacá, maniçoba, duck in tucupi and a variety of fruits, like açaí, bacuri and cupuaçu, are the highlights.

They generate an exotic gastronomy, rich in colours, aromas and unique flavours.

BELÉM The state capital of Pará is Belém. It is a large urban centre where indigenous 60 | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | ITB l Berlin l March 2018

heritage survives amid artisanal production, whether for fishing or in cooking using cassava, accompanied by fish and açaí.

The most popular tour for tourists is the Ver-o-Peso Market. It is here that the fiscal point for the control of goods that leave and enter the province emerged and it has now become the main fair of original products of the Brazilian Amazon.

For more than 300 years, every day vessels have been supplying the market with fish, typical fruits, medicinal herbs, spices, religious articles and handicrafts.

It is interesting to see how the traditional way of growing and trading food is still alive and doing well. In the stalls, ointments, perfumes, lotions and potions promise to make you lucky in love, by giving you fertility, money and even virility. If you have the opportunity, be sure to try the Brazil nut, which is produced in Pará. It is exported and marketed worldwide after being toasted and placed in packages. At the market it is possible to taste the nut before it goes through this process. The difference is striking, with a strong taste of

coconut water.

To enjoy a little more exotic cuisine, go down to the dock station. The tourist complex has been completely refurbished and now houses several restaurants with traditional cuisine. In addition to the restaurants, bars and shops, there are the three sheds, which also have a stage, host cultural events, presentations and shows.

ALTER DO CHÃO Between August and November, the waters of the Tapajós River recede by almost ten meters, revealing one of the most beautiful beaches in Pará. With white sands and transparent fresh water, Alter do Chão is surrounded by a tropical forest, giving space to a fisherman’s village. Nature does not go unnoticed: the green lake, the flooded forest and the porpoises are examples of the exuberant beauty of these Amazonian elements. Located 30km from Santarém, you can reach the village by land, on a paved road or by boat, on a three-hour ride along the calm waters.

One of the most popular events in Alter

North do Chão, the Saire Festival, that mixes religious and sacrilegious elements. Some researchers believe the event is over 300 years old and it is held every September.

The event begins with a search for poles decorated with regional fruits by the villagers who hoist a flag up them.

To conclude, there is the Botos’s Festival, a theatrical clash between the folkloric associations Tucuxi and Cor de Rosa. In the performance, they play the legend of the freshwater dolphin that turns into a handsome man, which seduces and makes a woman pregnant. The plot has an ecological ideology, as it emphasizes nature, especially the Green Lake, the stage for the spectacle. And when the dolphin is killed by order of the Tuxaua, father of Cunhantãiborari, who became pregnant by the Amazonian dolphin, the fury of the evil spirits of the region fall on him.

Therefore, at the request of Tuxaua himself, comes the Pajé (witchdoctor) to resuscitate the dolphin.

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MARAJÓ ISLAND One of the largest coastal islands in the country, the Marajó Island is more than 40,000km2, the equivalent to the size of Switzerland. Bathed by the rivers Amazonas and Pará, as well as the Atlantic Ocean, this island is a true paradise. It is just 3 hours from Belém by ferry. One of the biggest curiosities of the island are the carts pulled by buffalo. The city is home to more than 700,000, the largest herd in Brazil. Take time to swim and play on the beaches, get to know the municipal market and sample the buffalo mozzarella that is produced locally.

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READ MORE Capital: Belém Website: www.paraturismo.pa.gov.br

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Midwest

Distrito Federal

230m high, the TV Tower is strategically located in the centre of the city

The Federal District is located in the Central-West of Brazil and is notable for its tropical climate, with two well-defined seasons: dry (May to September) and rainy (October to April). Low and twisting trees mixed into the undergrowth are predominant as this is in the middle of the “Cerrado” biome, which is famous for having the second largest biodiversity on the planet, surpassed only by the Amazon.

In addition, the region is among the most important in the country, since the rivers that are born in this biome feed 8 of the 12 largest Brazilian hydrographic regions. They 62 | MERCADO & EVENTOS BRASIL | ITB l Berlin l March 2018

receive their water and it is known as the “Cradle of Waters”, the Cerrado has springs, streams and rivers that are of fundamental importance to the country. Brasília was built in the middle of the Cerrado and was planned to help preserve the area, by keeping the bucolic features.

The city has peculiar characteristics that can attract tourists depending on their profile. Tours can focus on architecture, gastronomy, culture, religion, countryside, underground and rock, amongst others.

It has something for everyone.

Covering 40 hectares, Brasília has one of

Setur-DF

The National Congress is open to receiving visitors interested in visiting the Brazilian Legislative Branch

Midwest the largest urban parks in Latin America, the Parque da Cidade. The park is a meeting point for locals and for anybody looking for leisure. In the Federal District, there is also a vast choice of Rural Tourism, including, waterfalls, zip lines and horse riding.

The city has also shown a strong vocation for business tourism and events, being named the third city in the country that hosts the largest events. Research shows that Cultural and Leisure Tourism also includes a significant portion of the visitation index of the Federal Capital.

The activities related to tourism in the Federal District contribute 2.5% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

In addition, the Federal Capital is the only modern site listed by UNESCO as Cultural a Patrimony of Humanity. There were two criteria that defined the city as patrimony: masterpiece of the human creative genius and architectural ensemble that illustrates a significant period of human history. It was the first representation of the Modern Cerrado stands out for having the second largest biodiversity on the planet, surpassed only by the Amazon

Movement in urbanism and architecture to be added to the UNESCO list.

POLITICS AND TOURISM Among the main attractions in the city is the Planalto Palace, which is the base of the Federal Executive Branch, where the Presidential Office of Brazil is located.

It is situated in the Three Powers Square and was one of the first buildings built in the new capital. The Planalto Palace project, designed by the architect Oscar Niemeyer, impresses by the purity of its lines with predominance of horizontal strokes and its exquisite plastic effect.

The main façade is characterized by the ramp giving access to the noble hall, where huge events are held and also on special occasions such as visiting foreign dignitaries.

It is open to the public on Sundays from 9:30 to 14:00. The tour includes a visit to the Noble, West and East Halls, Supreme Meeting Room, Audience Hall, Presidential Office and a presentation of some art work.

The Alvorada Palace, also designed by Oscar Niemeyer, is one of the important buildings of Brazilian architectural modernism. The Palace has a horizontal configuration finished by a chapel that refers to the old farmhouses of Brazil. The distinctive shape of the outer columns resembles hammocks stretched out on balconies, such as those around the colonial mansions. The design of the columns gave rise to the symbol and emblem present in the coat of arms of the Federal District.

The Palace has a water mirror, which reflects the image of the building, creating an infinite virtual space, complemented by a bronze sculpture called The Iaras, a piece of work by the Brazilian artist and sculptor Alfredo Ceschiatti. It can also be visited by tourists and the tour visits the Entrance Hall, Chapel, State Hall, Library, Noble Hall, Music Room, Toys Hall and Gardens. In all areas, artwork from the Alvorada Palace are on display. Both visits must be booked online in advance.

The National Congress consists of the House of Representatives and the Federal Senate. The building is an architectural landmark of the Capital of the Republic and is open to visitors interested in learning more about the Brazilian Legislative Branch. The program of visits to the National Congress Palace take place every day, including holidays, from 8:30 to 17:30.

READ MORE Capital: Brasília Website: www.setur.df.gov.br

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Known as the “Cra streams and riv dle of Waters”, Cerrado ha s a network of ers of fundam springs, ental importa nce to the co untry

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Midwest

Diving in the Abyss Anhumas

Mato Grosso do Sul

Marcelo Krause

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Campo Grande is called Morena (Brunet) City, because of the reddish colour of its soil

Mato Grosso do Sul is a privileged state as it has many features that show the world it is a region blessed by nature. Located in the central-west of Brazil, the state is fed by the Paraná and Paraguay rivers system and its tributaries. Its dominant vegetation has characteristics from the Cerrado, and it covers roughly 65% of the largest floodplain in the world: the Pantanal. There are approximately 140,000km2 of fauna and flora recognized by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve, as it is one of the most exuberant and diverse natural reserves on Earth.

With abundant vegetation among its 357,000 km2, the state is considered as a benchmark in ecotourism and has also earned the title of one of the ten best destinations in the world for sustainable tourism. Being one of the largest sediment plains in the world, the Pantanal impresses with its rare fauna and flora.

The history of the state is mixed with the arrival of the first settlers in search of gold and then culture, tradition and customs were built from its diverse influences, such as the indigenous people. This is reflected in the gastronomy, in the cultural displays, and in the handicrafts, where the indigenous expression is predominant. This natural and cultural mosaic, which the state houses in its seventy-nine cities, is open to all and can be enjoyed by tourists.

Campo Grande The state capital Campo Grande is located on a plateau region and, from here, it is possible to see the horizon in every direction. The city is also called Morena (Brunet), because of the reddish colour of its land, attracting visitors due to its beautiful landscape.

Among the interesting places to visit are the Indigenous Culture Memorial, a

cultural centre located within the Marçal de Souza Urban Indigenous Village. You will also find exhibitions and crafts here.

In the Parque dos Poderes (Park of the Powers), headquarters of the state government, you will come across wild animals such as anteaters, birds and marmosets that hunt for food in the region.

And the Morada dos Baís offers exhibitions and shows with live music by local artists in a pleasant atmosphere and with good gastronomy.

Pantanal and Bonito The Pantanal region is formed by the cities of Anastácio, Aquidauana, Miranda, Corumbá and Ladário. Today, it is one of the most popular Brazilian destinations for national and international tourism.

The largest floodplain on the planet has incredible biodiversity. It is a harmonious combination of water, fauna, flora and people. Strolling through the Pantanal is an adventure in itself, whether you go by boat, on horseback or on foot through the Pantanal countryside.

It is a paradise for wildlife observers and photographers, as it is home to about 230 species of fish, 650 birds, 80 mammals and 50 reptiles. The climatic variations allow for a diversity of different attractions throughout the year, depending on the season: wet or dry.

Bonito is one of the state’s cities that offers tourism allied to environmental responsibility. The tourist hub is thus considered, mainly, by its control of tourists and its care for nature. Its main attractions are the natural landscapes, the diving in its transparent rivers, waterfalls and caves.

Among the activities here, the Anhumas Abyss is one of the main and most popular tourist attractions. The cave, from the

entrance to the base, is 72m high and you can repel down and will arrive on a floating deck built on a mirror of crystal clear water.

This clear lake is also 80m deep.

The Buraco das Araras (Macaws Hole) is another famous and unforgettable attraction. In the middle of the Cerrado, a huge crater totally made of sandstone is home to diverse birds, mainly the red macaws. The name Buraco das Araras arose because of the large number of macaws that inhabit the area and form real spectacles. In its interior, there is a great lake inhabited by alligators.

Pantanal is one of the most popular Brazilian destinations for national and international tourism.

READ MORE Capital: Campo Grande Website: www.turismo.ms.gov.br

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Paraná The state can be considered as a complete destination with huge tourism potential

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depending on the strength of the currents, but there are 19 major ones. The tourist infrastructure is very good, with trails and walkways that allow for an impressive view of the falls: one from the Brazilian side, the other from Argentina.

The park today protects the rich biodiversity, which is made up of representative species of Brazilian fauna and flora, some of which are threatened

with extinction, such as the jaguar, the puma and the broad-snouted caiman, among many others. Here, you will also find 2,000 species of plants and 400 birds, and many others of relevant value and scientific interest. This expressive biological variability, coupled with the unique landscapes of rare scenic beauty of the Iguaçu Falls, made the Iguaçu National Park the first Conservation Unit The Bird Park is an internationally recognized centre for bird conservation

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The state of Paraná can be considered as a complete destination with great tourism potential, either due to the cosmopolitan characteristics of its state capital Curitiba or due to the open air spectacle that is Iguazu Falls. There are so many possibilities, that the state has been divided into 14 regions to better offer its enormous variety of tourist attractions: unsurpassed natural beauties, large reserves of preserved Atlantic Forest, rivers, waterfalls, all the resources cultivated in its soil, a very rich historical and cultural heritage, besides the innumerable and different leisure alternatives and gastronomy.

Undoubtedly, the most popular attraction is the Iguaçu Falls, in Foz do Iguaçu. Located inside the National Park of Iguaçu, the waterfalls are part of the Iguaçu River, with falls of up to 80 meters in height. There are more than 100 falls,

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in Brazil to be established as a World Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986.

Neighbouring the Iguassu National Park is the Bird Park, an internationally recognized centre for bird conservation, located amidst the rich and lush Atlantic Forest. It is an unmissable tour in Foz do Iguaçu, where you will experience direct contact with more than 1,320 birds, covering about 143 different species.

ITAIPU BINACIONAL In Foz do Iguaçu, another famous attraction is the Itaipu Binacional Power Plant, which fascinates through its enormity and is a vanguard in social and environmental issues. The construction of Itaipu has changed the history of Brazil and Paraguay forever. The plant is the world’s largest energy producer, although the Three Gorges Dam, in China, is larger in infrastructure terms, Itaipu is still breaking records. To get an idea, since its inauguration, all the energy that has been produced, would be enough to supply the whole world for 40 days, two hours and 45 minutes.

FROM THE STATE CAPITAL TO MORRETES BY TRAIN After visiting the state capital and taking a bus tour to the city’s main attractions such as the Municipal Market, museums, the Historical Sector, the Panoramic Tower, its woods and parks, it is time to embark on a train to the city of Morretes. The Curitiba - Serra do Mar - Morretes - Paranaguá railroad represents an extraordinary 19th century

The Falls are a true spectacle of nature, with waterfalls of up to 80m in height

engineering feat. Its construction was considered as impractical by many European engineers of the time. It is 110km on one of the most famous and beautiful train routes in Brazil, all set within within the ecological reserve of Serra do Mar. The railway has more than 125 years of history. Passengers have the chance to see the largest preserved area of Atlantic Forest in Brazil, an ecological treasure that is located between the first plateau of Paraná and the coastal plain.

The route passes through the following locations: Caiguava Dam, Roça Nova Tunnel, Ipiranga River Dam, Cadeado Sanctuary, the 55m high São João Bridge, the most outstanding place, and the Carvalho Viaduct, with its abyss of more than 900m.

The city of Morretes lies in the middle of the Serra do Mar Reserve, between the state capital and the coast. Its bucolic routine, its pleasant climate, ecotourism options, gastronomic attractions and historic buildings are the main attractions. The country environment favours tecotourism. The Marumbi State Park is one of them and offers trails, rivers and mountains, as well as being divided by the Taquaral River.

It forms some natural pools of crystal clear water. Another characteristic of Morretes are the waterfalls. The most famous are the Salto da Fortuna and the Santo dos Macacos.

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Capital: Curitiba Itaipu Binacional impresses with its greatness and energy potential

Website: www.turismo.pr.gov.br

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South

Hercilio Luz Bridge, postcard of Florianópolis

Santa Catarina Exactly 12 tourist regions make Santa Catarina a state of diversity. The number of possibilities in the whole destination is practically uncountable. All the work of Santur, the state’s tourism promotional body, is based on this rich set consisting of Alto Vale, Contestado Valley, European Valley, Grande Oeste, Caminho dos Príncipes, Caminhos da Fronteira, Encantos do Sul, Verde e Mar Coast, Caminho dos Canyons, Serra Catarinense, Grande Florianópolis and Vale das Águas.

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landscape, due to its geographical condition, which brings a very large contrast to those visiting.

The diversity begins with the state capital Florianópolis, or “Floripa” as it affectionately known. Located on the coast of Santa Catarina, Floripa receives the suggestive nickname “Ilha da Magia” (Magic Island). It houses paradisiacal beaches, lagoons, dunes, trails in the middle of the Atlantic Forest and historical heritage that you will find in perfect condition. Now, the main news is that the city has the highest quality of life among all the Brazilian state capitals, which also brings benefits to tourists who visit it.

The varied gastronomy, the 400km coastline, the mountains, its unique landscapes, adventure tourism, rural tourism, thermal waters, wineries and

horseback riding are the activities and beauties that Santa Catarina today provides to its tourists. Rich in flavours and influences, the gastronomy of Santa Catarina is a portrait of the colonization of the state.

The cuisine along the coast, where the Portuguese settled, is based on seafood. Going inland, into the nuclei of Germanic colonization present mainly in the Caminho dos Príncipes (Way of the Princes) and in the European Valley, fish gives way to heavily seasoned pork and it should be washed down with one of the typical German beers. There are also small Polish, Ukrainian, Austrian, Hungarian and Dutch gastronomic centres that, added to the local cuisine, make Santa Catarina a mouth-watering state.

But what is there to do in the capital apart from eating well, of course? Although it has a coastline, with one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil, Florianópolis also stands

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are all stunning, surrounded by dunes, sandbanks or hills covered with Atlantic Forest, with calm waters for children or waves fit for surfers, trendy resorts or small communities of fishermen.

Balneário Camboriú About 80km from the state capital is Balneário Camboriú. The city competes with the capital of Santa Catarina for tourists in the high season. From December to March, approximately 1.5 million people visit the area. The only resort in the region is the Infinity Blue Resort & Spa, an opportunity considered unique for those who desire comfort.

The bustling Central Beach, where the cosmopolitan Avenida Atlântica is located, is the heart of the city, but there are more tranquil and preserved options, such as the beaches of Laranjeiras, Taquaras, Estaleiro and Estaleirinho. Another highlight of Balneário is the Unipraias Park, located in Barra Sul, which groups leisure, shopping and ecotourism but still also provides a beautiful view of the city from its aerial cable cars.

At nightfall, the streets of the city soon pulsate, with many shops, department

stores, shopping malls, restaurants, ice cream shops, cafes and bars by the sea, the starting point for the famous night clubs that stay open until dawn. The destination gained even more prominence in 2017, when it was officially recognised as a stop for cruise ships. MSC Cruises, for example, has itineraries with Balneário included for the 2017/18 season.

Beto Carrero A whole day is not enough to visit all the 100+ attractions of Beto Carrero World, one of the 10 best amusement parks in the world. BCW receives about 1 million people each year and is located on the North Coast of Santa Catarina, it is considered as the largest theme park in Latin America. From 2019, the park will have a new GJP hotel complex consisting of 250 apartments. The hotel infrastructure will be vital for an even greater development of the park. The park still boasts the only inverted roller coaster in Brazil. The Fire Whip is 700 meters long and takes 20 passengers in each carriage. There are five loops and the speed reaches 100km/h.

Foto: Divulgação/Santa Catarina Turismo

The beautiful beach of Lagoinha

Foto: Divulgação/Santa Catarina Turismo

Foto: Divulgação/Santa Catarina Turismo

out for its cultural attractions. The Historical Centre of Florianópolis concentrates tourist points such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, which has a collection of sacred art available to visitors, Cruz and Souza Palace that houses the Historical Museum of Santa Catarina, and the Municipal Public Market, which offers handicrafts, utensils and typical food from the region of Santa Catarina.

S p e a k i n g o f t h e M e t ro p o l i t a n Cathedral, Greater Florianópolis is also much sought after by religious and rural tourism enthusiasts. There are centennial churches, religious caves and faith celebrations in almost every municipality in the region. Another point of the capital that deserves to be highlighted is the beaches that are among the most beautiful in Brazil. There are hundreds of them on the Island of Santa Catarina, where the state capital Florianópolis is located, and in its neighbouring municipalities. They

Central Beach of Balneário Camboriú is 6km in length

READ MORE Capital: Florianópolis Wine production is regular in Santa Catarina and tourists can visit many wineries

Website: www.turismo.sc.gov.br

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South

Rio Grande do Sul The state is highly regarded throughout Brazil for its traditions and nationally known wine, chimarrão (mate) and barbecue. Rio Grande do Sul carries the nickname of the least tropical state of the country as it has a cooler climate compared to the other states. The population of about 11.3 million is divided between the 497 municipalities and has a touch of Europe within Brazil. The architecture shows German influence and there are many traditions and the locals show great pride, displaying its flag in diverse places.

The state capital, Porto Alegre, which has about 1.4 million inhabitants, has everything that forms a large metropolis: gastronomic options, an intense nightlife, museums that tell stories about the main history and facts about the most European state of Brazil.

A good tip while you are visiting the state capital is to visit the Museum of Science and Technology at PUC Rio Grande do Sul. The museum has various items and works on display that refer to various scientific and technological aspects, some of which are interactive.

Recently, the capital of Rio Grande do Sul was the scene of the last concert of the tour of the band Coldplay, who put on a show worthy of a major event. The British musicians played their biggest hits to an audience of nearly 60,000 people, who watched the show at Grêmio Arena, the stadium of one of the biggest football clubs in Rio Grande do Sul. The biggest highlight of the state is Serra Gaúcha, one of the most sought after destinations by Brazilians and tourists from all over the world. In addition to the gorgeous weather throughout the year, the region has a large number of attractions for any season. In the summer, there are natural lures such as waterfalls.

In winter, the cold weather incentivises people to take advantage of the diversified hotel and gastronomy.

Gramado and Canela are the biggest highlights along the mountain range, attracting thousands of visitors, who come to the region looking for leisure activities as there are many, from ice bars to adventure tourism and with hiking on the hills.

Gramado, known as the city of cinema hosts a famous Film Festival every year. It is a city that has a gastronomic

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Stone church in Gramado, one of the icons of the Serra Gaúcha

plurality and one of the most extensive array of hotels ranging from the simple to the luxurious, which gave the city the recognition of the best tourism infrastructure in Rio Grande do Sul. The nearby town of Canela offers a wide choice of ecotourism, whether horseback riding, visiting animal mini-festivals or taking a leisurely stroll through the local parks, enjoying the scenery.

Lastly, the capital of the grape is one of the 65 tourism-inducing destinations in Brazil. According to the Ministry of Tourism, Bento Gonçalves is the icing on the cake of Rio Grande do Sul. With an average of 1 million visitors a year, the city annually holds a series of events related to the harvesting and tasting of grapes and wine. In addition to the Italian gastronomy, a characteristic of the city, tourists can understand the whole process of harvesting and manufacturing wine by visiting one of the local wineries.

Not only having the opportunity to taste a great wine and maybe even becoming a sommelier and knowledgeable about the drink, Bento Gonçalves also has the option of taking a tour on one of the traditional Maria Fumaça steam trains, which run on a

route through the Serra Gaúcha, displaying several of its various beauties and showing visitors the most beautiful views and landscapes in the region, yielding photos worthy of postcards.

The various attractions in the state have prompted the Brazilian Tourism Ministry to indicate that 75% of the state’s cities have tourism potential, according to the New Tourism Map. In all, 371 cities in the state of Rio Grande do Sul show a tourist vocation, an increase of 26% compared to last year, when the local map had 294 municipalities.

The number of regions remained at 27 in relation to the previous map.

A c co rd i n g to t h e n ew m a p , 5 4 municipalities are in categories A, B and C, which are those that concentrate the flow of domestic and international tourists.

In this list there are destinations such as Porto Alegre, Bento Gonçalves, Gramado, Canela, Cambará do Sul, Capão da Canoa and Xangri-lá.

READ MORE Capital: Porto Alegre Website: www.turismo.rs.gov.br

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