Known for being the largest city in South America, São Paulo can be intimidating to those looking to explore this hot Latin American destination for the first time. However, native resident Roberto Sfeir shows us that the city is just as accessible for those twenty-something’s looking for a good night on the town as it is to regular visitors returning to soak up Brazilian culture in Brazil’s largest city. I recently spoke to Brazilian Roberto Sfeir, who gave me his insider views on São Paulo living.

Why go to São Paulo? What does the city offer?

“São Paulo is one of the biggest cities in the world, good for restaurants, shopping malls, clubs and bars. It is a city that never stops. You can always eat anywhere; it has a high level of international food, high-class health care and good hotels. The best way to get around is by having a car or by taxi. Brazilian people are very open to foreign people because [they are] always happy to meet someone new.”

What is a typical day for a resident of São Paulo?

“During the week, work. During the weekends, hanging out with friends and family — a lot of time with family. Brazilian people are very close to their family members and attending social events such as movies, bowling and going to clubs.”

Where is the best place to live within São Paulo?

“The best place to live, based on statistics, is Mooca. ‘Paulistanos,’ people who live in the city of São Paulo, made this statistic. Mooca is a neighborhood with a lot of green areas, very secure, with beautiful views and close by there are shopping malls and supermarkets.”

Known as one of the fastest growing districts in São Paulo, Mooca is home to nearly 65,000 inhabitants, and has profited through recent growth in the construction industry. As Sfeir mentioned, the shopping malls have contributed to the increase in economic prosperity in the area, which has captured the interest of investors worldwide. Reflecting the city’s diversity, the population in Mooca is a mix of Spanish, Portuguese, Croatian, Japanese, Bolivian, Peruvian, and Lebanese, with the predominant residents being Italian. Mooca is an attractive place to live in the city not only because of its status as an industrial suburban neighborhood on the rise, but also because of the profitable opportunities in the real estate market that draws investors and international prospective buyers.

As for “must-sees” in the city, Sfeir recommends Ibirapuera Park, Moema, Vila Madalena, and the Pinheiros region. Ibirapuera Park is São Paulo’s principle urban park, reminiscent of New York’s Central Park. Walkers and joggers take advantage of the large open areas and many locals and tourists visit the park for leisure or to go to the convention center located there. Some of the features of Ibirapuera Park include the Obelisk of São Paulo, Cicillo Matarazzo Pavillion, and the old city hall. Five minutes away from the park is Moema, a district that has seen a growth in population since the 1970s. It is the home of one of the largest and oldest shopping malls in Brazil, as well as the Museum of Modern Art. Moema also holds many of São Paulo’s notable events, like São Paulo Fashion Week. Vila Madalena is a neighborhood located in Western São Paulo, and is renowned for its bohemian art and culture as well as its nightlife. The graffiti-covered neighborhood boasts an array of bars, restaurants, and galleries. The Pinheiros area is considered the new downtown area of São Paulo. Known as the wealthiest district in São Paulo, many of São Paulo’s elite call Pinheiros home, including four former mayors of the São Paulo. Pinheiros is also the location of many international company’s headquarters, and is a great spot for seeing the most elegant neighborhoods in the city.

When it comes to the nicest restaurants in São Paulo, Sfeir recommends going to Jardins. Jardins covers multiple districts in the city, and boasts exclusive restaurants, hotels, and nightlife.

Those looking for an authentic Brazilian meal and older atmosphere, Sfeir recommends Restaurante Fuentes, located in the Centro district. For a refined and romantic atmosphere, Sfeir says Leona is a “very beautiful and sophisticated place.” As far as the best Italian in the city, Sfeir cites Terraço Itália located on Avenida Ipiranga. For French Cuisine, Dois Coppe. Sfeir says four great Japanese restaurants in the city are Jam, Koi, Nakombi, and Gendai. For great Chinese, try China Lake and for great Spanishfood, try Luz Molinos. For those looking for great pizza in São Paulo, Castelões is the way to go.

Sfeir’s otherrestaurant recomendations in the city include Fogo de Caho, Varanda, Jardineira, Rubayat, Barbacoa, Gero, Família Manchini, Dom Piero, ViccoNostro, Fasano, Sonho de Amarelo, Cantina do Sargento, Bolinha, Dudinha, Dona Lucinha, Colher de Pau, Mocotó, Bexiga, Dom Curro, Marcel, and Pimentel.

What about nightlife in São Paulo?

When it comes to the local nightlife, Sfeir says visitors can expect “a lot of drinks and a lot of fun!” Because São Paulo attracts international visitors and also caters to a younger native crowd, entertainment is one of São Paulo’s biggest industries. Sfeir recommends the Moema neighborhood as one of the best nightlife spots for its bars and shows. He says many of the locals call it the “Ipanema of São Paulo.”  For visitors looking to immerse themselves in Brazilian culture, Sfeir recommends Vila Madalena, “for its bars and salsa.” For those looking for a more upscale club experience, Sfeir says Pinheiros and Itaim offer a wealthier club atmosphere. Sfeir cites the Pink Elephant, Royal, and Mokaias some of the most popular clubs in the city. The Pink Elephant, located in Dacon Tower in Jardins, serves an international VIP crowd. Royal, located in the Centro district, caters to a crowd of jetsetters and fashionable young people with its dimly lit atmosphere and large dance floor. Originally a Miami club, Mokai nightclub came to São Paulo exuding an essence of hip-hop and celebrity lifestyle, with DJ Kaskade and Lady Gaga having been on the guest list.

When is the best time to come to São Paulo?

According to Sfeir, “the summertime, November and December, or January and February” are the best times to visit the city. “In February, there is a carnival in Brazil which is very fun and wild,” says Sfeir.

Typically held 40 days before the Catholic holiday of Lent, Carnival is held in Brazil and is the largest celebration of its kind. Traditionally held in Rio de Janerio, Carnival attracts tourists from all over the world and offers visitors a chance to celebrate with locals by experiencing Brazilian music, dancing, parades, and Carnival balls. Carnival in 2011 is taking place March 5-8, and February 18-21 in 2012, both in Rio de Janerio.

Anna Patrick is a Communications major at Boston College and a frequent commuter between Boston and the Washington DC metropolitan area in Northern Virginia. A seasoned traveler, Patrick has lived in London and traveled extensively throughout Mexico, Canada, Austria, Germany, Italy, France, the Czech Republic, Greece, Scotland, England and Turkey.

Founded as the first coastal settlement in Brazil, Sao Paulo was also the first permanent Portuguese colony founded in the New World in 1532. Since then, it has grown to become the home of around one-third of Brazil’s industrial employment. Multinational corporations look to Sao Paulo as a place of strong economic profit, as it is a mixing bowl of both industry and cultural hubs.

Attractions and Neighborhoods: As one of the major cultural centers of Brazil, Sao Paulo offers many attractions that provide insight into its colorful Latin American roots. The Museu de Arte de Sao Paulo (MASP) has been called one of the most important art museums in Latin America, showcasing artwork by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Renoir, Degas, Rodin, Matisse, Goya, and more. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, the nearby Santa Fe Plaza is a historic park marked by lines of large shade-trees and benches. The area is iconic of colonial Spanish times, and various other famous landmarks stand within walking distance. For a fresh look into Brazilian culture, the Mercado Municipal is the location of a large market where vendors sell locally produced fruit, cheese, vegetables, and other goods. Even if you are not looking to buy anything, the large stained-glass windows in the neo-Gothic style hall portray daily scenes from coffee plantations and are beautiful to look at. Whether in a museum, park, or market, the authentic Latin American culture in Brazil offers travelers a wide range of options as far as local attractions.

Sao Paulo itself is divided into 93 neighborhoods, most of which are best navigated on foot as the city thrives on pedestrian tourism. Centro is the original neighborhood in the city, founded on a hilltop and home to old missions and cathedrals. The Banespa Tower stands as an architectural wonder in the neighborhood, and the Metropolitan Cathedral can be viewed from most of the surrounding area like the two main pedestrian streets of Rua Direita and Rua Sao Bento.  The neighborhoods of Pinheiros and Itaim Bibi both boast luxurious residential areas that feature posh restaurants, hotels and nightlife. Being two of the more modern neighborhoods in the city, they are connected to Centro by a streetcar line that gives easy access to areas throughout the city. Liberdade is known for its historical relevance, having received its name after the abolition of slavery in 1888. The Liberdade Metro stop will lead you to Rua Galvao Bueno, a street filled with shops and many notable sushi restaurants. The combination of these four neighborhoods shows the distinct aspects that Sao Paulo offers visitors: history, preserved Latin America culture, and also modernity encapsulated in twentieth century expansion.

Dining and Nightlife: Because Sao Paulo attracts national and international guests, visitors should expect to find an array of cuisine options. For a more authentic meal, look for a dish including “cahaca,” a spicy specialty with a sugarcane spirit that is popular among the locals. One restaurant offering this delicacy is Acqua Benedicta (located at 62 Rua da Matriz) which also offers American and Caribbean foods. Another local favorite is the restaurant Le Coq Hardy (located at Rua Jeronimo da Viega), which features a quaint piano bar and decorated wine cellar that showcases its many bottles of Bordeaux. The city’s restaurants also include a large amount of Portuguese cuisine, Italian specialties, and sushi restaurants.

A city that rarely sleeps, most Sao Paulo residents do not begin their nights out on the town until midnight or later. They also dress to impress – women favor black or darker colors while men are typically less formal. Because the nightlife scene tends to be spread out, it is best to stick to one area or neighborhood and bar and club hop in that region for the night on foot, to avoid the congested traffic coming into the city. Some of the city’s best bars and clubs for the younger crowd are located at Vila Olimpia, while Vila Madalena is a more posh location featuring mostly bars and restaurants instead of clubs.

Local Transportation: Pedestrians will find themselves in good company in Sao Paulo, since most of the city is set up exclusively for pedestrian traffic as most areas and neighborhoods can be explored on foot. However, Sao Paulo has the most motorcycle couriers in Brazil, which can pose a threat to pedestrians sharing the roads.

With public transportation demands on the rise due to the magnitude of business traffic commuting to the city, the expansive bus system has grown to include a fleet of more than 16,000 units. There are also three main train systems – the Sao Paulo Metro, CPTM, and the ETU-SP as well as the many other train lines that branch off from those systems. Those looking to travel across longer distances of the city should invest in a Bilhete Único, or “unified ticket” that is essentially a smartcard used for fare collection for the train, buses, and subway system. It also offers discounted prices and makes transitions easier between transportation systems. Ultimately, the reputation for transportation in Sao Paulo is one of chaos and congestion, but improvements are underway and are typically a platform of every local political election.

Traveling to Sao Paulo: Many popular airlines fly directly into Sao Paulo, such as American Airlines, United, Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways, Air Canada, US Airways, Mexicana, Delta, Continental Airlines, Aerolineas Argentinas and more. The biggest airlines that fly into Sao Paulo directly are TAM Linhas Aeras, American Airlines, and United. The best way to find direct flights to Sao Paulo from your local airport is to check www.skyscanner.com for flights, airlines, and prices. Average ticket prices to travel to the city range from $900 to $1,500, but cheaper prices from discount sites like www.kayak.com offer flights for around $800.

Anna Patrick is a Communications major at Boston College and a frequent commuter between Boston and the Washington DC metropolitan area in Northern Virginia. A seasoned traveler, Patrick has lived in London and traveled extensively throughout Mexico, Canada, Austria, Germany, Italy, France, the Czech Republic, Greece, Scotland, England and Turkey.

If you’re shy like me, meeting people in a foreign country can be a slow and daungting process, but it’s not impossible. The odds are, if you could make friends back home, there’s no reason you can’t make friends in your new home.  I’ve moved abroad twice: Once to Panama City and then to Bogota, so I know how it feels to be alone and lonely in a foreign country. You tell everyone things are fantastic and you’re absolutely sure of your decision, but inside, you can’t help having those nagging doubts that maybe you were wrong; maybe you just can’t make it work in X country. So what do you do when you’re alone in a foreign country and don’t know anyone?

(1) Look into expat resources. I know that most of us move abroad because we want to assimilate in the local culture and make Panamanian/Costa Rican/Mexican friends, but I’ve found that expat groups are a really great way to meet people going through some of the same things. Everyone who joins these forums or groups is looking to meet people and socialize, and many of these groups are also open to non-expats who are interested in language/culture exchange. If you’re in the under 40 demographic, Coachsurfing.org  is a fantastic resource; aside from hosting meet-ups at local bars or parks, most Latin American countries also have sub categories meaning that if you  want to learn French, go hiking or get involved with the local gay community, there’s likely a group for you. Aside from Coachsurfing, most Latin American countries will have at least one social group catering to expats, and the Internet is your best resource for finding out more about these.

(2) Join something. For months after moving to Colombia, I complained to anyone who would listen (in the U.S. because I didn’t actually have anyone who would listen in Colombia) that I wasn’t meeting anyone. It then dawned on me that meeting people takes effort and it wasn’t going to happen if I sat around my apartment all day working in front of my computer and didn’t join any clubs or grups. So I moved my home office to a local cafe, joined a gym and am considering buying a bike and joining a weekend biking club. Soccer is huge in Latin America, so if you’re interested in “futbol”  joining a local soccer league is a great way to meet people with similar interests. Many countries also have ultimate Frisbee and baseball/softball leagues, as well as birdwatching, hiking, reading, poker groups and more. Join something that interests you.

(3) Live with people. Even if you’ve lived on your own for 10 years and the thought of having roommates fills you with dread, living with other people is one of the best way to feel connected to your new country and build a social network. Latin Americans are notoriously  friendly and outgoing, and will usually make an effort to include you in activities. Plus, roommates will introduce you to friends who will introduce you to other friends.

(4) Resist the urge to say no when people ask you to come out. As I mentioned, I’m a very shy person so the thought of going to a party with just one person I know (they might go talk to someone else and leave me standing awkwardly alone in a corner!) is terrifying.  But I always push myself to say yes and I nearly always have a good time. Yes, maybe I’m standing awkwardly on my own for a few minutes, but it never takes long before I’m talking to someone new. Even if you don’t make lasting friendships at bars or parties, these activities provide a social outlet and an opportunity to learn more about the culture and customs in your new country.

(5) Take a group Spanish or Portuguese class. If you’re already fluent in the local language, pick up another language. Group language classes will give you the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. If you’re under 30, sign up for a class at a university, where you’re bound to meet other young people interested in getting to know you and learn more about your culture. If you’re a little older, language institutes and academies often hold night classes for professionals that cater to a 30 plus crowd and even language classes aimed at retired folks.

For more on my travel experiences, check out my blog. For additional travel information, take a look at my pros and cons of visiting Latin America. Or, check out Adriana Harvey’s story about her experience studying abroad in Cuba.

However, in an attempt to better answer this question more scientifically, I’ve been keeping track of my expenses for the last few weeks here in Bogota, and it breaks down like this:

(1) Rent (1 bedroom with cable, Wi-Fi, electricity, gas, water and once-a-week maid service included in a “nice” area of town): $225.00

***Of course, if you are 60, you probably don’t want to live in a 5-bedroom apartment with a bunch of 25 year-olds, so I called some rental agencies in a variety of middle upperclass neighborhood and found that a 1-bedroom (no utilities) apartment runs between $250 and $1,000.

(2) Utilities in an upper middle-class neighborhood (electricity, gas, Internet, cable, water) if you decide to live on your own: $195 per month

(3) ”Typical” Meal in a middle class neighborhood: $3.00

(4) Nice meal in Bogota’s most upscale dining district (without appetizer or wine): $10.00-$17.00

(5) Gym membership in a nicer gym (per month): $30.00-$100.00

(6) Bottle of water: $0.75

(7) Taxi, 65 city blocks: $4.50

(8) Typical monthly grocery bill at a “higher-end” chain store: $80.00-$100.oo

(9) Gallon of gas: $3.00-$4.00

(10) Normal bus: $0.65; Transmilenio bus: $0.80.

(11) Cocktail at a high-end bar: $7.50-$12.50

(12) Beer at your average bar: $0.90

(13) Coffee at a casual bakery or cafe: $0.50-$1.00

(14) Skim milk frappaccino with light cream at a “fancy” cafe: $2-$4

(15) Health Insurance (I have my own in the U.S., but I’ve called around and a policy, depending whether you get public or private, runs anywhere between): $35-$120 per month

(16) Misc (because I always seem to spend money and have nothing to show for it): $150.00

Total Expenditures in Bogota:

Total: $764.00

Total Expenditures in the U.S:

Total: $639.00

So basically, I need $1,303 to live every month. Obviously, this figure doesn’t reflect leisure travel, home-insurance, car insurance, car payment or savings, but this budget should give you an idea how much you need to get by and have a few nice dinners and drinks along the way.

For more on my experiences in Latin America, check out my blog. And for additional information on Latin America, check out more reasons to visit.

I miss my pup.  He’s up in the states chasing squirrels like an idiot, a relentless pursuit that will probably never bear fruit.  Pets – be it dogs, cats, hamsters, ferrets, and the like – are practically members of the family in the U.S. and Canada.  Leaving one behind is a very tough thing to do; thus, when considering moving to Latin America, a major question is “Can my dog/cat/etc come too?”  The answer is yes.  And depending on the country, the process is quite easy.

Mexico: With hundreds of thousands of visitors from the U.S. and around a million expats and retirees living in the country, Mexico is pretty straightforward in allowing pets across the border.

For dogs the main concern, of course, is rabies.  PROOF OF A RECENT RABIES VACCINATION IS THE MOST IMPORTANT DOCUMENT YOU CAN BRING!  Do not even attempt to bring Sparky into Mexico without one.  Fortunately, they are easy to obtain anywhere in the U.S.  This vaccination must be done at least 30 days before entry into Mexico but cannot be older than 1 year.  For dogs under 4 months, the animal must be kept at the owner’s residence in Mexico until it is old enough to get a rabies vaccination.  Cats and other animals do not need proof of rabies vaccinations.

Also, for all dogs its necessary to get a Certificate of Good Health from your vet.  This just says that, well, your pet is healthy, free of any contagious diseases.

With cats the process is a bit easier.  All that is needed is a Certificate of Good Health, obtained at any vet’s office in the U.S.  At the border your cat will be inspected, and if it is deemed that the animal is unhealthy, you will have to pay for kitty to be treated by a vet in Mexico.  But if the cat is healthy, then there are no problems.

Birds are a bit more of a hassle.  Some species are restricted by either the Mexican government for importing or the U.S. government for exporting.  You may even have to quarantine your bird at one of the U.S. Animal and Health Inspection Service’s center before going to Mexico.  It’s best to get in touch with them before planning to take your bird southward.  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/

Other animals, such as hamsters, rabbits, ferrets, and other furry critters are allowed into Mexico without much fuss as long as they are in good health.  Reptiles and amphibians, however, have restrictions depending on the species; check with http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ for specific information.

Costa Rica: The regulations for bringing pets in is similar to Mexico’s, with a few differences.

Both dogs and cats need proof of a rabies vaccination performed at least 30 days prior to entering Costa Rica, but no more than 1 year old.  Failure to have this document will result in a lengthy quarantine and many headaches.  They will also need the Certificate of Good Health form saying they are carrying no communicable diseases.

Birds are now allowed into Costa Rica; however, you are not allowed to take them out if you decide to leave.  So make sure the move is what you want if you plan on bringing a bird along.

Other pets such as small mammals and reptiles also require the Certificate of Good Health.  Some species may be restricted, so it is good to check with http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ first.

Panamà: Compared to Panamà, getting an animal into Mexico or Costa Rica is a breeze.  Panamà has more paperwork, more procedures, more headache – but don’t panic, LW is here to help.

For dogs and cats the usual forms – Certificate of Good Health and rabies vaccination – are the first thing you should get done in the U.S.  They are the same as the ones in Mex and Costa Rica and have the same time restrictions.  Additionally, you need to mail a $30 money order to the Consulate General of Panamà.  And, most annoyingly, you need to send a Quarentine For Domestic Animals form to the Minister of Health in Panama.  This must be done at least 3 days before the animal’s arrival.

Now here’s the tricky part.  Your cat or dog MUST be checked by a Panamanian vet at the Tocumen airport in Panama City, and the vet must be government-authorized.  Easy, right?  Well yes, except the vets only work from 9am to 3pm and from 7pm to 10pm Monday through Friday.  If your plane lands after hours or on the weekend, you either have to keep your pet at the airport until the vets go back to work or arrange for a government vet to meet your plane.  You can arrange this with the Ministry of Health, but will have to pay extra.

Birds and reptiles are a real pain to get into Panamà, but not impossible.  The first document you need is an import permit, which you get from the National Environmental Authority (ANAM).  Next, your bird needs to be vaccinated before arriving in Panamà for the following diseases: New Castle, Tuberculosis, Avian Influenza,  Chlamydia, and Salmonella.  Proof of these vaccinations must be included in the Certificate of Good Health.  Also, the Certificate of Good Health and the import permit must be certified by the Consulate in Panama before your bird arrives.

With such strict deadlines and procedures, it may not be a bad idea getting the help of an attorney in Panamà to assist you in bringing an animal in, especially if its a bird, reptile, or other kind of exotic pet.

Brazil: The land of samba welcomes pets; just make sure the paperwork is in order.

For dogs and cats the first thing you need is the rabies vaccination, which follows the same guidelines as the other countries: no less than 30 days and no more than 1 year since the vaccination.  Second is the ubiquitous Certificate of Good Health, obtained in the U.S.   However, with Brazil, this certificate needs to be authorized in the U.S. by an APHIS office.  Check their website http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ for an office near you and make an appointment (walk-ins aren’t allowed).  The APHIS signature costs $24.  After this step, take the certificate to a Brazilian Consulate in the U.S: for further authorization, which will require a money order of $20.

After all of the authorizations are complete, your pet is ready to go.  You only need two documents: the original rabies vaccination and the double-authorized Certificate of Good Health.

For all other animals an import permit is required, which must be obtained before the animal arrives in Brazil.  This form is obtained from the Ministry of Agriculture (Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento).

No quarantine facilities exist for pets at Brazilian airports.  If there are problems with the paperwork, the pet, be it a dog, cat, or iguana, will be sent back to the U.S. at the owner’s expense or destroyed!!

Do you have additional info on pet travel?  Hints or tips?  Success or horror stories?  We want to hear from you!

If you are looking to move down south, you can find Latin America real estate by clicking on the link.

photo provided by jorgenjuul at http://www.flickr.com/photos/jorgenjuul/309794248/

A bungalow at Dos Ganchos

By Patrick Connelly

While it may not sport the plethora of resorts that countries like Mexico offer, Brazil has recently built up a reputable armada of beachside all-inclusives and romantic getaways.  With over 7,000 km of coastline, the area is immense and options are numerous.  Here are a few of Brazil’s best resorts, with representatives from several different parts of the country.

1. Ponta Das Ganchos – Southern Brazil (Near Florianopolis/Sao Paulo)

Leave the kids at home.  Literally.  They won’t be allowed in.  Ponta Das Ganchos, located on a private peninsula, is Brazil’s most romantic getaway: no one under 18 is allowed.  Twenty-five beautiful bungalows situate perfectly between the white beach and the lush Atlantic Forest, creating an intimate, isolated environment while offering top notch amenities.  From spas to movie theatres to massage tents, Ganchos has everything a couple needs and more.  The resort also sports one of Brazil’s finest diving areas at nearby Arvoredo Island.

I’s seclusion and luxury at the highest level, and such privilages do come at a cost.  But the location is not only picturesque, but also very convenient; the resort can be reached easily from Rio, Sao Paulo, and Buenos Aires.

2. Rio Das Piedras - 45 Minutes from Rio de Janeiro

This resort you can bring your kids to.  In fact, this Club Med creation caters to the young extremely well, and is a perfect place for a family vacation.  Its everything that you’d expect from member of the Med hegemony: quality, efficiency, and a well-rounded approach.  Das Piedras, a stone’s throw from Rio de Janeiro, has plenty to offer the kids as well as the parents, from waterskiing to spa treatment to archery lessons, all included in the overall fee.  A massive 320 rooms, in both club and deluxe sizes, means that getting a room is not nearly as hard as it is at Dos Ganchos, but on weekends the resort can get crowded with Paulistas from Sao Paulo and other cities.

Das Piedras also offers great dining and bars, most of which is included (some old wines and spirits are not), as well as Club Med’s famous monitors that keep watch over the kids while parents relax.

3. Blue Tree Eco Resort Park - Angra dos Reis (90 miles from Rio de Janeiro)

Another resort that is a favorite of weekenders from the large cities, Blue Tree Eco Resort is part of the Blue Tree Hotel chain and is a top quality destination for families and couples alike.  As the name suggests, Blue Tree is focused around a natural experience, combining the beauty of the surrounding environment with modern perks.  Numerous small, tranquil bays and islands dot the coastline while the Atlantic Forest covers everything in brilliant green.  Many of the resort’s activities are centered around this unique setting, with extensive canopy walking through the forests and watersports amidst the islands.  Along with Das Ganchos, Blue True also has some of southern Brazil’s best dive spots.

View at the Enotel Resort

Many people have been asking about property ownership in Brazil, and specifically about purchasing real estate through a foreign (non-Brazilian) company.  The short answer is yes, you can buy real estate this way, as opposed to using your personal name.  However, the process is lengthy and complicated.  That’s why we are here.

LatinWorld.com’s in-house Brazil expert, Diego Simon, is a native brasileiro with years of experience in the real estate market there.  Here´s what he had to say about the subject:

“The whole process may take from a few weeks to a few months (editor’s note: what in Brazil doesn’t take a few weeks or months?).  The first requirement for the process of real estate acquisition in Brazil by a foreign company is a previous authorization of the CDN (Conselho de Defesa Nacional). To acquire real estate, the foreign company needs to register at the “Secretaria da Receita Federal”, obtaining a tax number called CNPJ (Cadastro Nacional de Pessoa Jurídica).

‘The register of the company must be formalized with an inscription at the CADEMP (Cadastro de empresas da Área do DECEC), which is the Department of Exchange and Foreign Capitals (Departamento de Capitais Estrangeiros e Câmbio).  The request is made at the Central Bank of Brazil (Banco Central do Brasil).  To start the process, it’s necessary to have a photocopy of the company’s constitutive act, authenticated by the Brazilian Consulate at the company’s country of origin, and translated by an authorized translator in Brazil.

‘We strongly recommend the guidance of a specialized lawyer, with strong knowledge of Civil, Comercial, Tax, and International Laws in Brazil, to intermediate the buying process according to the Brazilian laws and, at the same time, preserve the interests of your company.

‘On the other hand, the acquisition of real estate under a personal name is much more straightforward.  It is recommended if possible, because the only requirement is the registration for a Brazilian CPF (Cadastro de Pessoa Física).”

Here is the official law on the subject, albeit in Portuguese.  “IN 568 de 08/09/2005, Art. 11 itens 5,9 e 10 da alínea “a”, combinado com os itens 1 a 6 da alínea “b” do inciso XIV do Art. 11 da Instrução Normativa do BACEN de n° 568 de 08/09/2005.”

Similarly, Cristina Adam from Kapital International had this to say:

“Your company will have to be registered as a tax payer. A property bought under a person’s name  registers with CPF, and companies register with CNPJ.  So the registered address can be the new property address and the documents required will be the social contract of your company and the passports of the owner(s) of the company.”

With such a complicated process, it is definitely in your best interest to find a top notch real estate attorney that understands the ins and outs of not only real estate ownership in Brazil, but also foreign company investment.  This will go a long way in making this process much smoother.

To browse Brazil real estate listings, visit VivaReal. They have a growing database of Fortaleza real estate, Florianopolis real estate as well as other cities.

Se o Português é a sua língua nativa, você pode visitar o portal VivaReal para buscar imóveis em São Paulo, como apartamentos em São Paulo e casas em São Paulo.

photo provided be luiz at http://www.flickr.com/photos/graduale/354513902/

The famous Hercilio Luz bridge alight

By Patrick Connelly

Florianopolis is a city cursed with names.  The current label is in reference to Floriano Peixoto, who was Brazil’s president from 1891-1894 and is accused by many residents of the city of being a brutal dictator that murdered hundred in the area during his administration.  Not exactly someone to build statues of or name streets after.  But, alas, he gets his own city.  However, the alternative is just as cacophonic.  Many residents are campaigning for the name to be restored to its original moniker: Our Lady of the Banished.

Despite its inability to come up with a suitable name, Florianapolis is booming.  The island city – well, half of it is on an island – has become a tourist and expat destination for adventurous people all over the world.  Great beaches are in no short supply and the climate, while still tropical, is not the same scorching heat that typifies some of the more northern cities.

Surfers first made the city famous abroad during the 1970′s and 80′s with the discovery of incredible wave breaks at the Joaquina and Campeche beaches, both of which are still hugely popular today.  Already frequented by Brazilians as a prime weekend destination, foriegners soon began to flock to the “magic island” in the 90′s and a healthy English-speaking expat population now exists.

The island, which is the main tourist and expat draw, is divided into north and south sections.  The northern half has seen the majority of tourist attention and thus has the hotels, popular beaches and nightspots, etc. etc.  Along with Joaquina and Campeche, the north also has uber-popular beaches like Jurere and Inglesias, popular among partygoers, expats, and families alike.

Conversely, the southern part of the island has been able to retain a way of life that has existed for hundreds of years.  Portuguese immigrants from the Azores islands arrived to the island in the 18th century and set up a fishing/agriculture society which is still evident despite the growing number of surfers and sunbathers around their fishing nets.  For the foreigner, the south offers a a refuge from the sometimes crowded north and, despite being underdeveloped in terms of tourist infrastructure, still has a number of hotels and real estate opportunities.

The island of Santa Catarina, on which the city is located, has been named by Newsweek as one of the most dynamic places to live in the entire world (http://www.newsweek.com/id/46125/page/12).  It is an extreme mix of traditional shrimping villages and modern skyscrapers, of bikini-clad women and sleepy hamlets.  Each year hundreds of foreigners fall victim to the spell of the “magic island” and now call it home.

Florianopolis can be reached by air from almost any city in Brazil and is a only a short flight from both Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

Here’s a video about the region

If you are interested in renting or buying Florianopolis real estate, visit VivaReal.

cover photo by Joao H at http://www.flickr.com/photos/john_jones/1537275160/

first photo by Eduardo Cavasotti at http://www.flickr.com/photos/cavasotti/16306955/

second photo by Pablo O Palmiero at http://www.flickr.com/photos/pablopalmeiro/2856353153/

Getting pensions transferred to Brazil can be a big headache if one is not prepared before hand. I’ve heard the process called “impossible” and “exhausting”, among other things, but these comments usually come from people who haven’t actually gone through it. In reality, with careful planning the process is quite easy, if not a bit long.

Pension Requirements

First off, Brazilian pension requirements for U.S. retirees are a bit steep at $2,000 U.S/month. This number is always subject to change, and with an increasing number of retirees looking to Brazil, it may certainly lower. This $2000 requirement covers the pension holder and two dependents, all of which will receive permanent resident visas. Additional dependents require proof of an additional $1000 in pension funds per month.

What You Need

This is the tricky part. Paperwork, paperwork, paperwork. The cost of living in paradise.

Background Information:

1. Visa application forms. The Brazilian embassy says you need two per applicant, but I’ve also heard three are necessary. Better to be safe than sorry.

For dependents under the age of 18, a copy of the birth certificate is needed as well. Also, their visa application forms must all be co-signed by the minor’s parents or legal guardians and then notarized by a Notary Public.

2. Photos. Again, the embassy says two per applicant, but I’ve also heard three. Either way, passport-style photos are the best, the ones you can get made at any Kinko’s or Walgreens. Just don’t bring a cut out photo of you at the office Christmas party. That probably won’t fly with Brazilian authorities. Avoid the headache, get the pictures made where they take passport photos.

3.Marriage, birth certificates. Depending on the number of dependents attached to the pension. Spouses need both the birth and marriage certificate, while children only need the birth documents. If you are flying solo, of course, only your birth certificate is necessary.

4. Copy of passport information. Just a copy of the information pages of the passport. The pension holder and all dependents must have a copy of their own. I’m really happy you went to Fiji last year, but don’t make copies of the country stamp pages. Not needed.

5. Criminal Record. Well, a non-criminal record would be better. This is time-sensitive, so plan accordingly. A complete criminal record check by the Federal Bureau of Investigation must be done within 90 days of your planned move to Brazil. Any record check older than 90 days is useless and the process will have to start again. The records check is necessary for all dependents over the age of 16. Check this link out for more info in the FBI background check:

http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/emergencies/emergencies_1201.html

6. Proof of Residence in wherever it is that you currently live in the U.S.

Pension Information : With all the red tape done, its time for your pension paperwork.

7. Proof of Retirement. A statement from the Social Security Administration saying that indeed you are retired and receive x amount in pensions. If applicable, the form should state both the lifetime portion and the temporary portion. For more on this statement, click here:

https://secure.ssa.gov/apps6z/isss/main.html

8. Proof of Pension. Documented proof, provided by your pension provider, of the amount that you receive on a monthly basis. Of course, this must equal or exceed $2000 U.S./month. Additional dependents must be covered by the amount as well, an additional $1000 U.S. a month. Again, it is good if your provider can state the long-term and temporary portions of your pension.

9. Bank Statement. A statement from your bank is necessary, stating that $2,000 (or more) of your pension fund can be transferred to Brazil on a monthly basis.

Photo from flickr