Article by Anna Patrick

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.

Often compared to the thriving cities of New York and Los Angeles, dare yourself to travel to the largest city in South America, not to mention the third largest city in the world: Sao Paulo, Brazil. However, the real attraction to Brazil’s most populous city is its people and vibrant culture. Renowned for its giant skyscrapers, looming architecture, vast helicopter fleet, and often-unreliable subtropical weather, give into the allure of Sao Paulo and partake in your own Latin American Adventure – like the city’s motto says, Non ducor, duco, “I am not led, I lead.”

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.

So you finally did it:  You quit your job, sold your home and bought a one way ticket somwhere south of the U.S/Mexico border. Fast forward a couple months and you’re living the so-called dream life somewhere near the Equator but it’s not exactly the glamorous new existence you’d been anticipating. Sure, your apartment is nice and you love X country, but…you don’t have much in the way of friends or a social life and you really don’t know where to get started.

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.

I live in Bogota, what I would classify as a middle income city with a middle-of-the-road cost of living. One of the most frequent questions I get as an expat is: Do you think I can live on X amount of money per month in X country? My answer is always that it depends how you want to live and where you want to live. If your idea of retirement is living a simple life in a small house far outside any major city, then yes, you can probably live on $1,000 a month. Of course, if you want to live in a nice apartment in a nice part of town in a large city, your cost of life goes up. But the truth is, it’s really quite hard to answer this question because some countries are more expensive than others and some cities are pricier than others; you can live like a king on your social security check in rural Bolivia, but in Sao Paolo, you may find yourself struggling on a single retirement income.

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’ve been living between Bogota and Panama City for the last three years, and for the most part, it’s been a fantastic experience — so fantastic, in fact, that I’ve only been back to the States a couple times in the last few years. But there are times when I get nostalgic for the motherland and can’t help thinking to myself, “This would never happen in America!” Yes, these moments of desperation are few and far between, but they do exist. So here it is, my list of the top ten negatives of living in Latin America, in no particular order:

1.) Unsolicited advice and nosiness. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve left the house feeling great only to be greeted by people — often people I barely know — telling me about some great weight loss pill or program I could really benefit from. Or that I’d really look better as a blond, that I’m wearing the wrong kind of jeans and that my career choice is all wrong. In Latin America, you can expect unsolicited advice on a relatively frequent basis. And you may find your neighbors are a little more involved than they are back home. Some call it human warmth, others call it nosiness, but whatever you want to call it, accept the fact that people, whether they know you or not, often have no qualms about asking you how much you make, why you’re dating the guy you’re dating, how much your purse cost, et cetera. Often, refusing to answers means getting labeled as cold and rude. Or in the best case scenario, a weird foreigner.

2.) Children living at home until they’re 40. This might not bother you if you’re a retiree living abroad — and it does go to show that families in Latin America tend to be close — but as a 25 year-old single woman living in Bogota, it’s never been my romantic fantasy to date a 30-year old guy living still living at home and with no imminent plans of moving out any time soon. I completely understand that wages are lower in Latin America and cultural differences mean it’s normal for kids to stay home until they get married, but being American, I have a hard time getting excited about a guy who goes home to mom’s everyday for lunch.

3.) Inefficiency. Anyone who’s ever tried applying for a business visa or gone through any other legal or immigration process in Latin America knows what I’m talking about. Person A sends you to person B who sends you back to person A who then sends you off to some remote office to talk to person C who then tells you your papers are all wrong and you’ll have to start the process all over. It can be exasperating, so mentally prepare yourself for a long and arduous paperwork journey.

4.) Men thinking catcalls involving the word “gordita” are somehow flattering. Imagine walking down the street in the United States and a construction worker yelling out “Hey fatty, looking good today!” And said construction worker grinning like he’s just given you the best compliment ever. Now imagine that happening every day. I have to admit these catcalls have grown on me a little, as some are particularly creative and inspired, but overall, being compared to one of Botero’s paintings on a frequent basis does not bode well for one’s self esteem.

5.) Deadly fear of the common cold. In the U.S., I usually caught at least one or two colds every winter. However, during my time in Latin America, I’ve realized that people seem to fear the common cold like people in the United States might fear Ebola or Mad Cow Disease. In Bogota, a cold often involves multiple doctor visits, exaggerated scarf usage and serious pneumonia fears. My grandmother (who is Colombian) cannot comprehend that I would go outside in a short sleeve shirt without a jacket or scarf, never mind that it’s a balmy 75 degrees outside.

6.) Pollution. Unless you decide to live in the countryside, pollution will become a part of your daily life. I’ve gotten used to stepping outside and a potent aroma of diesel, fried goodness, perfume and cigarette smoke filling my lungs. In fact, this smell has become so associated with Latin America in my mind that whenever I go back home and happen to catch a momentary whiff, I’m filled with a sense of nostalgic longing and am instantly transported back to Panama City or Bogota. But as a former suburbanite used to crisp, fresh air, it took me a while to get accustomed to the smog. And get used to people honking their horns for sport.

7.) The cult of beauty. So this might not be a negative if you’re a guy, but as a girl, it can get tiring. My grandmother often says she doesn’t understand how women in the United States go out in sweatpants and disheveled ponytails. She thinks everyone in the U.S. walks around looking a mess. As a woman who used to thoroughly enjoy sweatpants and disheveled ponytails, I’ve had to change my ways. Here, it seems that women are expected to get their hair and nails done at least once a week, hit the gym to fix any slight problem areas (or head to the plastic surgeon if the gym doesn’t do it), and rarely go out looking anything less than perfect. For example, take the gym: While I’m sweating profusely and looking definitively unsexy in my baggy sweats and t-shirt, the woman next to me is looking great in form-fitting spandex and casually running 6.5 miles an hour,  not a hair out of place.  I can’t compete with that kind of perfection. Now, I’m not saying all women strive to look perfect ALL the time, but beauty is definitely a bigger priority, at least in Colombia, than back home. And foreign guys will have to abandon the shorts and flip-flops unless they want to be the perpetual gringo.

8.) A serious aversion to the word “No.” Latin Americans are nice. So nice, in fact, that they hate saying no. Or telling you they don’t know. Maybe you’ve asked directions and have been confidently pointed in a particular direction, only to realize, 20 minute later, you’re going the wrong way. Or maybe you meet some friendly people and promise to get together soon but it never materializes. Just keep in mind that a “yes” in Latin America doesn’t carry the same weight as a yes in North America. Otherwise, you’re bound to be perpetually disappointed. And stood-up.

9.) Cities aren’t quite as “pretty” as back home. The roads have massive craters; the sidewalks are falling apart and uninspired concrete grey buildings from the ‘70s stand next to dilapidated colonial-era structures. Sure, there are perfectly attractive neighborhoods and districts, but for the most part, Latin American cities can be overwhelming and unorganized. It takes a while to be able to see the beauty beyond the chaotic façade, but if you look hard enough, you’re bound to see it.

10.) Social inequality and poverty. One of the hardest things about living in Latin America is having to deal with poverty on a daily basis. Economic contrasts are a much bigger part of daily life here than in the United States or Europe. While some CEOs take home six figure incomes, live in posh penthouses and go to Paris and Miami just for the shopping, maids and security guards often have to get by on $10 or $12 a day. In Colombia, 60% of the population lives below the poverty line and a strict, traditional social system means things are changing at a painfully slow pace. Frankly, the unfairness and difficulty of daily life for many of Latin America’s inhabitants can be downright depressing. But maybe one of the good things about the influx of expats moving down south is the spreading of more egalitarian social notions.

Keep in mind this list is written from the point of view of an expat woman living in Colombia. If you have a different opinion, something to add or think I’m completely wrong , I invite you to be a guest contributor and let LatinWorld know what you think.

For more of my opinions on Latin America, check out my blog or my article about reasons to visit.

Map courtesy of gosouthamerica.com

South America’s only Portuguese-speaking country is home to the Amazon Rainforest, Rio de Janeiro and its legendary beaches, Samba, Bossa Nova, and  one of the most ethnically diverse populations in the world. And while Brazil’s allure can’t be denied, neither can its size. Bigger than the continental United States, it’s no wonder planning a Brazilian vacation can be a daunting and overwhelming task. Unlike Costa Rica and Panama where getting around is cheap, quick and easy, getting around Brazil is expensive (you’ll likely have to travel by plane from city to city) and often difficult. So if you’re planning a trip to Brazil in the near future, check out this brief guide to South America’s largest country.

1.) Rio de Janeiro: No place in Brazil gets more press than romantic, glitzy Rio de Janeiro. South America’s most visited city gets almost 3 million tourists a year and can be loosely characterized as a super-sized Miami-type resort city. Situated on Brazil’s southeast Atlantic coast, Rio is famous for its sexy white sand beaches (who hasn’t heard of Ipanema and Copacabana?), Samba, Bossa Nova, hosting  the world’s wildest carnival and, of course, the giant statue of Christ that overlooks the city. Rio is hot and happening all year round and boasts some of Brazil’s best night clubs and restaurants. One downside? High crime rates have been scaring away increasing numbers of tourists in recent years. But don’t worry – as long as you exercise proper precautions (such as not walking around drunk on the beach at 3am in the morning) you should be OK.

Christ the Redeemer statue. Photo courtesy of Hanneorla.

2.) Salvador and Bahia: If it’s sun and beaches you’re after, Salvador and the Bahia Province is your best bet. Salvador is located on Brazil’s northeastern coast, 1,100 miles north of Rio — so unless you’re a fan of epic bus rides, you’ll want to take a two and a half hour plane to here. Hot and humid year-round, the city boasts 30 miles of attractive coastline some of the world’s best beaches.  And if you happen to be here for Carnival, you can tell your friends that you participated in the world’s largest street party, with two million people partying for nearly 20 miles. Brazil’s African heritage can best be appreciated in Salvador and Bahia, where over 80% of the population claims African heritage, a heritage reflected in the region’s spicy, African-inspired cuisine, its unique Afro-Brazilian religions, its music and in Capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial arts quickly gaining popularity throughout Latin America and even the United States and Europe.

3.) Sao Paulo: A gargantuan city with a metropolitan area of nearly 20 million people, Sao Paulo is located 266 miles south of Rio and has a much more “down to business” attitude than any other city in Brazil, perhaps a resulting from being slightly inland. Brazil’s wealthiest city is not quite as well known as Rio and Salvador, but as the country’s economic engine, it is the country’s most cosmopolitan and sophisticated city. It’s hard to fall in love with Sao Paulo at first site, but foodies will appreciate its incredibly diverse restaurants scene, and party-lovers will find everything here from rock concerts featuring well-known acts to Korean Karaoke to all-night Samba/funk clubs. This incredible variety can be attributed to Sao Paolo’s immense ethnic diversity, which includes substantial Asian, Arab, African and European communities. In fact, more people in Sao Paulo claim Italian heritage than Portuguese heritage. Sao Paulo and Rio are connected by frequent bus service, but if you’re short on time, a short flight is a better option.

The Sao Paolo skyline. Photo courtesy of Fernando Stankuns.

4.) Manaus and the Amazon: The Amazon city of Manaus is often viewed as the gateway to the rainforest, but it does have an interesting history as a rubber production center and boasts quite a few impressive historic buildings. However, most travelers head directly to the Amazon.

Although it extends into nine South American countries, it is Brazil that’s best known as being home to the Amazon Rainforest, the world’s largest rain forest, home to nearly 20% of the world’s flora and fauna species. Here you’ll find 2.5 million insects (so be sure to bring plenty of insect repellent), nearly 2,000 bird species, 40,000 plant species, almost 500 mammals and 3,000 different types of fish. Plenty of tour companies — American, European and Brazilian — offer Amazon hiking and river cruise excursion, but keep in mind that the Amazon is best suited for hardy travelers with plenty of adventure travel experience. It’s hot and humid year-round with heavy downpour six months of the year and you’ll have to deal with pesky insects and rough travel conditions. Because there is virtually no ground transport to Manaus or the Amazon region, you’ll have to fly in from one of Brazil’s major cities.

5.) Brasilia, the Panantal and Southern Brazil: Brazil’s capital city since 1960 is known for its futuristic architecture, designed by Oscar Neimeyer. As a completely pre-planned city, Brasilia lacks the character and soul of other Brazilian cities, but architecture buffs will want to visit the UNESCO-designated city. Brasilia is Brazil’s fourth largest city and easily connected to Sao Paulo and Rio via frequent bus and plane routes. One positive about Brasilia is the city’s cooler, more comfortable temperatures.

Brazil’s Panantal is often overlooked by travelers headed to the Amazon, but deserves a look due to its incredible biodiversity. As the world’s largest wetland, it is home to over 1,00o bird species, 400 fish species, 500 reptile species, 300 mammal species and 9000 invertebrates. Tours to the Panantal can easily be arranged from Sao Paolo and Brasilia.

Iguazu Falls is southern Brazil’s best known tourist destination, but the region is also home to some of the best beaches and most attractive cities. Southern Brazil has historically attracted a large number of German and Italian immigrants, making it Brazil’s most European region. Cities in southern Brazil are connected to other Brazilian cities by frequent bus routes and flights.

Iguazu Falls. Photo courtesy of Ewanr.

It’s hard to capture a country as large as Brazil in one article (imagine trying to describe the United States’ attractions in 1,000 words or less) so I invite all Brazilians, expats living in Brazil or Brazil lovers to contribute their two cents on Brazil’s top attractions and best kept secrets!

For more on my travel experiences, check out my blog.

Want a smaller nose and smoother skin? Need a new smile but can’t afford hefty dental bills at home? Well, move over, L.A.; Latin America is taking over as the world’s new plastic surgery mecca.

Over a million Americans travel abroad every year to seek medical treatment, most for elective procedures.  Latin America offers patients affordable elective and non-elective medical and dental procedures, usually at one third to half the cost of the same procedure in the United States or Europe.  As the name implies, medical tourism allows patients to combine medical treatment with a relaxing, tropical vacation south of the border; in fact, most medical tourism packages include excursions to nearby attractions and guided sight-seeing tours.

Because plastic surgery is so prevalent in Latin America (it’s estimated that up to 70% of middle and upper class women in some Latin American cities have had at least one cosmetic procedure), Central and South American plastic surgeons provide some of the most advanced and cutting edge surgical techniques in the field, usually in first class rate hospitals with better after-care than most U.S hospitals.

Medical tourism is booming in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Panama and Mexico, perhaps with Brazil and Colombia among the world leaders in elective cosmetic procedures. In a a continent where so much importance is placed on beauty (particularly female beauty) Latin American surgeons have honed their skills and helped develop some of the most innovative surgical techniques in practice today. But plastic surgery isn’t the only thing boosting the medical tourism industry in Latin America; even those seeking non-elective procedures such as fertility treatment, joint surgery or organ transplants will likely find more affordable treatment options than at home.

Although Latin America is generally considered the third world, it boasts many excellent clinics, cosmetic centers, and hospitals.  However,  it’s important to make sure that the chosen hospital, clinic and doctor has international healthcare accreditation. The majority of doctors who participate in medical tourism packages were trained in the United States or Europe or at the top universities and clinics in their respective countries. Unless the patient is very familiar with the country of choice and the doctor who will be performing their procedure, it’s a smart idea to go through a Medical tourism company, which will arrange everything from the hospital, to lodging, meals, the operative doctor, aftercare and post-operative excursions.  Keep in mind  that although there are plenty of first rate medical facilities in Latin America, there are also an equal number of subpar facilities; going through a medical tourism company can help assure quality and satisfaction. Patients should also keep in mind that a tropical climate means that there may be infections and diseases not found in Europe and the United States and patients should obtain all required vaccinations before heading south.

One of the reasons that medical care is so much cheaper in Latin America than in the United States is because Latin American health care professionals earn about 20% of what American health care professionals earn and medical malpractice suits are rare and difficult to win. Although lower wages help keep medical costs down,  if something goes wrong during or after surgery, the chances of a patient successfully suing the hospital or doctor are slim to none, a factor individuals should keep in mind before deciding to seek medical treatment abroad.

Most importantly, it’s important to do research and contact several medical tourism companies to find one that’s right for you. Medical Nomad (www.medicalnomad.com) is a great source of information in the realm of world-wide medical tourism and allows users to find accredited providers and hospitals in Latin America. In addition, the website provides plenty links to medical tourism articles and information in various countries. Some popular agencies include: Healthbase (www.healthbase.com); Medretreat (www.medretreat.com); WorldMed Assist (www.worldmedassist.com); Planet Hospital (www.planethospital.com). Most of these agencies can help potential patients arrange cosmetic, dental, weight-loss and non-elective procedures.

For additional information on Latin America, check out reasons for visiting and underrated destinations worth a trip.

Real estate titan Sam Zell has just upped his ante with increased investments in Brazil. He paid $53 million for 8.5% of Brazilian Finance & Real Estate. His total investments in Brazil now surpass $500 million. His company, Equity International invests in emerging markets across the world, but approximately one third of those investments have gone into Brazil. His group has invested in companies Gafisa and Tenda, both focused on residential contruction as well as BR Malls, one of the biggest builders of shopping centers in the country. He seems to have a sixth sense about when to buy and sell. His timing was impeccable when he sold Equity Office Properties to Blackstone for $39 billion. What year was that you ask? 2007! Yes, right before the collapse of real estate prices in the United States. Some acknowledge that there are good opportunities to invest in the United States, but that is not where his focus is. On the company’s website they state, “Equity International is a privately held investment company focused exclusively on real estate-related businesses operating outside of the United States.”

How did Zell get started? Most business tycoons on Forbes’ list of billionaires have to start somewhere. Zell started out renting homes to students and friends at the University of Michigan while attending law school. He bought and sold distressed property during the crises in the 80s. He eventually owned over 225,000 properties throughout the United States. He was born to Jewish immigrants from Poland that moved to the United States right before the Nazi invasion in 1939.

According to different sources there is a housing deficit of somewhere in the neighborhood of 7-9 million homes in Brazil. This year the Brazilian Government lauched a program called Minha Casa, Mihna Vida (My House, My Life). It has plans to subsidize and finance the construstion of 1 million homes for poor and lower middle class families. Brazil historically has high interest rates, but in recent years rates has come down significantly to around 9%.

Real estate companies in Brazil are taking advantage of this growing market. Giants like Lopes and Brasil Brokers, two of the largest real estate brokerages in the country have seen accelerated growth in recent years. In 2007, Brasil Brokers raised money on the Brazilian stock exchange and has been growing through acquisitions. Headquartered in Rio de Janeiro, they currently operate in 15 states throughout Brazil. The real estate franchise model is not as prevelant in Brazil as the United States or Europe, but Century 21 recently set up shop in Sao Paulo and has goals of growing to 1000 offices in the next decade. Lopes, one of the oldest real estate companies in all of Brazil has been growing its profits at a fast pace. Lopes posted Pro-forma Net Income of R$17.5 million (~$10 million USD) in 3Q09, increasing by 61% over 2Q09 and by 66% in relation to 3Q08. The company recently signed an agreement with online real estate marketplace VivaReal, to begin commercializing new construction projects as well as properties listed by its franchise arm Pronto Imoveis. VivaReal is founded by Brian Requarth, Web entrepreneur from California. The company is focused on building the largest marketplace for buying and selling real estate in the country. Having launched in May 2009, they are off to a good start with a few hundred thousand home buyers using its site to find properties throughout Brazil on a monthly basis. VivaReal is going after the +$1 billion that is spent on real estate advertising in traditional media in Brazil each year. With increased investments in real estate and more internet users than Germany, the company has a lot of room to grow.

With the recent announcement that Brazil will host the Olympic games in 2016 coupled with the World Cup in 2014, all eyes are on this emerging country with incredible potential. Some have compared Brazil’s current status right now to the United States in the 1950s. With a AAA rating from several major credit rating institutions and outstanding press from publications like The Economist, investors like Zell are counting on big returns in Brazil.

“In order to talk about property value appreciation [in Brazil] you must first consider what effect the global economy has had on the country as a whole,” claims Sueli Pacheco, Owner/Director of Pacheco Imóveis in Sao Paulo.

Sueli Pacheco is one of several highly respected real estate professionals from Sao Paulo whom believe that the worldwide economic crisis has indeed exerted great downward pressure on the Brazilian real estate market but nonetheless claim that the Brazilian real estate sector is strong enough to continue to grow; “simply at a slower more sustainable rate,” believes Mrs. Pacheco who says that:

“We expect this second semester to perform quite well. Key indicators show real estate appreciation will continue its upward path; just not as accelerated as before…”

The Worldwide Economic Crisis Is Having Very Little Effect On Both Brazil’s Residential as well as Commercial Real Estate Markets

Other very reputable professionals such as Celso Kocinas, Owner/Director of Zylber Assessoria Imobiliária — whose focus is primarily on the commercial real estate sector — tell us that Brazil is in very good shape right now. Even more astonishing is the belief that it is expected to continue to be that way.

“Demand for commercial real estate (stores, shops, offices, etc.) is extremely high right now. Property value and appreciation has been significant and rental rates are high. The real estate sector in Perdizes for example [a neighborhood in Sao Paulo] is very strong regardless of the economic crisis or the falling US dollar.” claims Mr. Kocinas who further says that:

“Everyone is looking to rent commercial property. If I had a handful of shops to rent out right now I could rent them out very quickly.”

So Where is all This Upward Pressure Coming From?

The downward pressure on Brazil’s real estate sector is definitely a consequence of worldwide economic turmoil, but where is the upward pressure coming from? Why do real estate professionals such as Mrs. Pacheco and Mr. Kocinas think so highly of this market?

* The Brazilian government is making major investments in infrastructure.
* Brazil’s Central Bank is continuing to lower interest rates.
* Brazil is continuing to see strong growth throughout the construction sector.
* The Brazilian government has raised the lending cap for Brazilian workers which are buying homes through government backed programs.
* In the past couple of years we have seen more and more real estate trust funds (REITs) enter the Brazilian market.
* Tourism in Brazil is flourishing.
* The government has made great strides in reducing the red tape associated with foreign investment in Brazil’s real estate sector.
* Big name real estate internet portals have begun paying attention to Brazil thus giving the market even more foreign as well as domestic exposure.

Conclusion

Key economic indicators as well as the testimony of respected real estate professionals such as Celso Kocinas and Sueli Pacheco make Brazil’s real estate market seem highly shielded against the current global recession. The accelerated way in which the Brazilian real estate market over performed for the past couple of years may indeed slow down, but it is highly unlikely that it will come to a halt.

Brazil skyline photo kindly provided by flickr

LatinWorld: Why should foreign real estate investors and companies visit or exhibit at São Paulo’s Real Estate Expo (Salão Imobiliário São Paulo)?

Ricardo Matrone, Show Manager of SISP

Ricardo Matrone: The economic crisis in August of last year affected the strongest markets in the United States, Europe and numerous Asian markets. Brazil was also affected, but the scope of the crisis was not as broad as other markets. The crisis was primarily among banks that provide loans to builders resulting in a more superficial economic downturn. Despite the tougher environment, Brazil is still a growing market with a housing deficit providing great opportunity for businesses, entrepreneurs and investors. These types of opportunities are difficult to find in today’s current economic climate. Investors interested in the Brazilian market have the opportunity to come here and forge partnerships with companies that know the local market, but need financial support. There are many companies throughout Brazil, especially in the interior of São Paulo and the Northeast who have knowledge of the market, they know and understand what can be done to execute a successful venture, however, they need investors and partners.

Before the economic crisis investors had a lot of different options for places to put their money, but with the current situation investors look to emerging opportunities and Brazil has been identified as one of those countries, whether it be partnering up with an existing company or launching your own venture. This is the vision that we have in our planning, media and promotion of the Salão Imobiliário (Real Estate Expo) also known as “Property Week”. We want the event to resonate with important investors coming from outside of Brazil so they don’t lose out on the business opportunities presented during this action packed event. So far there is great interest, mainly coming from the U.S. through broker associations in Florida and other states that have closely worked with large Brazilian companies through partnerships in the past making them more connected to the opportunity. We just want to make sure that others are aware of this event so they can participate as an exhibitor or an investor.

LatinWorld: Are you also interested in attracting attendees and exhibitors from the rest of Latin America?

Ricardo Matrone: The São Paulo Real Estate Expo has positioned itself as the largest event of its kind in Latin America and it continues to grow in popularity. Not only are investors interested in Brasil, but they are also looking at other countries in Latin America. For example, companies in Uruguay, Argentina, Chile and Costa Rica were present last year as exhibitors showing their products to investors from the U.S., Europe and even Asia. So this event is not only about Brasil, but other parts of the region as well. On the other side of the coin there is a growing interest and a strong representation of projects in the state of Catarina in southern Brazil. You’ll see comercial and residential projects and in many cases there are Argentines that look to buy a secon home or investment do to the proximity to country.

Find out more about SISP clicking HERE