Introduction

• Peter Lyons– DePaul CTI Graduate August 2004– Master’s Telecommunications Systems– March 2004, Rio de Janeiro– December 2004, Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro,

Sao Paulo

Background Brazil (Brasil)

• Following three centuries under the rule of Portugal, Brazil became an independent nation in 1822. By far the largest and most populous country in South America, Brazil overcame more than half a century of military intervention in the governance of the country when in 1985 the military regime peacefully ceded power to civilian rulers.

• Brazil continues to pursue industrial and agricultural growth and development of its interior. Exploiting vast natural resources and a large labor pool, it is today South America's leading economic power and a regional leader. Highly unequal income distribution remains a pressing problem. Estimated Population: 190 million persons.

Government overviewFederative Republic of Brasil

• chief of state: President Luiz Inacio LULA DA SILVA (since 1 January 2003); Vice President Jose ALENCAR (since 1 January 2003); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government head of government: President Luiz Inacio LULA DA SILVA (since 1 January 2003); Vice President Jose ALENCAR (since 1 January 2003); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government

Economy

• Economy - overview: Characterized by large and well-developed agricultural, mining, manufacturing, and service sectors, Brazil's economy outweighs that of all other South American countries and is expanding its presence in world markets.

• In 2004, Brazil enjoyed more robust growth that yielded increases in employment and real wages. The three pillars of the economic program are a floating exchange rate, an inflation-targeting regime, and tight fiscal policy, all reinforced by a series of IMF programs

Economy - Continued

• 2003 to 2005 Brazil ran record trade surpluses and recorded its first current account surpluses since 1992. Productivity gains - particularly in agriculture - also contributed to the surge in exports, and Brazil in 2005 surpassed the previous year's record export level.

Culture

• Its multi-racial society contributes hugely to the vibrancy and creativity of the culture - and the huge African influence on Brazilian music, dance etc merits a mention.

• “Not only is the world looking to Brazil for inspiration, Brazil itself is growing in confidence to break free of its stereotype of football, carnivals and samba.” - Megan Lane, BBC– She puts Brazil's new-found influence down to its people's attitude

to life - relaxed, sensual, up for a party

Language -Portuguese

• While Portuguese is topically similar to Spanish, it takes a slightly different ear to catch spoken Portuguese in Rio. “Paulista” Portuguese is a little more straight forward for Spanish Speakers.

• I recommend a Portuguese Language Series from Pilmsleur (available Barnes and Noble and Borders). It is very useful to know some basic Portuguese phrases as English is not widely spoken by most Brazilians.

Useful Information

• CURRENCY: Real – 1 US Dollar = 2.17459 Brazilian Real

1 Brazilian Real (BRL) = 0.45986 US Dollar (USD) (best exchange rate from local ATMs)

• ELECTRICITY– 110/120V, 60Hz in Sao Paulo and Rio

Safety• Crime is a problem in many countries, in Brazil a

visitor should take some basic common sense steps to avoid potential problems.

• Do not carry large amounts of cash, flashy jewelry, or thick wallets. Keep your items to a minimum. (credit card-some cash, rubber banded around each other and carried in front pocket.)

• Digital cameras are a major target for thieves and should be carried discretely if at all, especially at night.

• Keep your valuables locked in the safe in your room.

Gratuity

• Restaurant tipping is about 10 %. Otherwise, where you would hand out one dollar, give one Real (that's about 35 cents). You need not tip taxi drivers.

• It is customary to tip highly trained, bilingual tour directors about US$3 to $5 per person per day, and your coach or car driver about US$2-$3.

Rio de JaneiroIpanema Plaza Hotel- Rua Farma de Amoedo

• Located about one block from Rio’s beautiful Ipanema beach. Rua Farma de Amoedo is lined with dozens of nice cafes, and restaurants.

• One of my favorites is a fresh fruit juice stand one block to the east of the hotel on Rua Farma de Amoedo.

• The staff is extremely friendly and helpful, especially when it comes to recommendations re: nightlife, dining and general tips. – Must see in Rio Corcovado(Christ the Redeemer), Sugar Loaf

(Pao de Azucar) Handgliding lessons, and a futbol match at the Rio stadium if possible.

Alt. Lifestyle Section of beach

Shopping/ATMs/ETC

To CopacobanaTo Leblon

IpanemaLeblon

Copacabana

Sao PauloParthenon the World Hotel- Rua Gomes de Caravalho

• Located in the region of the Olímpia Village, near the main business center of Sao Paulo. Close to entertainment district, bars, restaurants and theaters. 4 km from Congonhas airport and 35 km from Guarulhos airport.

• Great little café across the street from hotel (Frans Café) …wonderful sandwiches and mixed coffees

Frans Cafe

Bars/Night Clubs

Shopping

Must See in Sao Paulo

• MUSEU DE ARTE MODERNA (MAM) AV Pedro Álvares Cabral, 188