Rustic and Sophisticated Buzios

October 23, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Nightlife

BUZIOS – www.seeyouinbrazil.com

What was once a quaint fisherman’s village is now an international hotspot for tourism. Buzios attained international attention when the renowned actress, Brigitte Bardot began to frequent the sultry peninsular paradise. Located just one hundred miles north of Rio de Janeiro (whose international fame goes without saying),Buzios is nestled away neatly into the South-central coastline of Brazil. Interestingly, Buzios has not lost much of the rustic charm it boasted half a century ago. Though it now contains an intriguing mixture of sophisticated hotels and charming little inns, Buzios exemplifies great service! It is second to none with regards to fine exotic cuisine and fabulous old world service.

Let the fine people from Buzios pamper you with their kindness, good service, and a sophistication that comes only from catering to the most discerning and finicky guests year after year. Yet remember, Buzios offers all the best of simplicity and opulence all in one astounding package. There are 26 gorgeous beaches, each one with its own air of distinction. Do you like cool refreshing waters or do you go more for the warm comfortable effect ? Buzios has both in abundance! Whether you prefer surfing, scuba diving, swimming, sailing, windsurfing, or fishing (or you name it), Buzios has it.

Just imagine catching a water taxi (yes, water taxi). A boat will carry you from one beach to another. As you contemplate your next move, the water splashes ever so delicately in your hair and the perfectly sculpted landscape simply takes your breath away. You will see mountainous looking terrain jutting up right in the middle of the ocean as you have the pleasure of visiting some of the surrounding islands. Buzios has family fun and all kinds of single nightlife (and day life for that matter).

Do you like golf? Right beside Buzios’ airport is the golf course designed by Pete and Perry Dye, who also designed courses in Denver, New Albany, and the famous Harbortown in Hilton Head, S.C. The golf course has over one million square meters of green area with 18 holes of golf. It is considered one of the most sophisticated golf courses in South America.
The night life is also international, playing host to a quarry of mixed styles of vocal and instrumental entertainment. From Brazilian Jazz to samba style, there is plenty of variety on the musical scene.

Let us help you enjoy Brazil – www.seeyouinbrazil.com

Do’s And Don’ts To Keep You Safe If You Travel To Brazil

October 17, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Hotels

A nation that is rich in sights and attractions, Brazil is one of the best destination choices when you fly south of America. Brazil is the 5th largest and 5th most populous country in the world. Its territory spans from the Atlantic Ocean to the central and east of South America, dwarfing the neighboring countries of Argentina, Uraguay, and Paraguay in the south, Bolivia and Peru in the east, and Columbia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana in the north.

10 Most Popular Brazil destinations:

Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro,

Corcovado, Rio de Janeiro,

Museu de Arte de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo,

Ipanema Beach, Rio de Janeiro,

Tijuca National Park, Rio de Janeiro,

Iguacu Falls, Foz de Iguacu, Parana

Pantanal Wetlands, Pantanal, Mato Grosso

Teatro Municipal, Rio de Janeiro,

Sugar Loaf Mountain (Pao de Acucar), Rio de Janeiro

Pelourinho, Salvador, Bahia

If you plan to travel to any of these places or plan take Brazil experience elsewhere, here are some of the things you should remember.

Do’s:

1. Try to learn as much Portuguese as you can. Yes, Portuguese. If you happen to visit other South American countries and have learned Spanish in the process, well, you can’t use it. Try to learn some word- the usual conversational phrases and sentences. Remember that although you can survive with English in large cities, most people living in rural areas would not be able to understand you.

2. Avoid dark and isolated places especially if you are alone.

3. Carry only the basics. In this way, you can avoid the eyes of petty criminals.

4. Know your destination before leaving. This rule applies before you leave the United State and upon arrival at your hotel. Keep a map if you must and don’t allow anyone to know you are lost if ever you caught in the situation. Knowing where you are going leads to a safer Brazil travel.

5. Bring necessary clothes and survival stuff. Bring long pants, long-sleeved shirt, eyeglasses, cap or hat to avoid mosquito bites. To further attracting illnesses from insects like dengue, leishmaniasis, and malaria, do bring insect repellant. Or, if you are planning to stay out overnight, bring mosquito nets, insect sprays, and necessary prescription medications.

6. Take taxi instead of busses. Bring money pouches strap around your neck. If you are driving your car, always keep the door locked.

7. Respect the locals.

8. If you are a victim of crime, report immediately.

9. Brazil like any other places has rules to follow. Obey them to keep you out of trouble.

Don’ts:

1. Never bring excessive valuables and show it to public. As much as possible leave your rings, necklaces, bracelets, and other jewelries in a safe place. You can rent a purchase deposit box to keep your valuables safe.

2. Don’t carry money and credit card you don’t need because you can never tell when pickpocketers attack. Although Brazil has several safe places for tourists like Rio de Janeiro, it is always wise to keep your money in safe place. Try to carry enough cash for the day or at least one credit card with you. Leave the rest in you hotel.

3. Don’t swim in any fresh waters.

4. Avoid eating street foods and drink only bottled water. Don’t handle any animals.

5. Don’t bring to your hotel room any strangers you meet outside.

Rio De Janeiro, Just Sensational !

September 15, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Restaurants

The most important point of entry, Rio de Janeiro brims over with charm and beauty. Few cities in the world have such beautiful scenery. Situated between the mountains and the sea , the “Wonderful City” welcomes visitors with open arms. Copacabana, one of Brazil’s most famous beaches, is the scene of the greats New Year celebration in the world. Ipanema and Leblon are permanent attraction during the day and also receive many habitués at night. Barra da Tijuca, Prainha and Grumari are all excellent for surfing, windsurfing and body boarding.

Rio de Janeiro is without a doubt one of the most popularly visited spots worldwide. If you think about it, it really has it all—the mountains, beaches, Arts, museums, sophisticated and bargain shopping facilities of all kinds, historical sites, red hot night life, and the list goes on forever. And all this you´ll just discover being in Rio de Janeiro, so, don´t delay, travel to Brazil!

Many people start with Sugar loaf Mountain (Pao de acucar). Its name describes the way the mountain juts out of the ocean and dazzles you with its sweet appearance. You can reach the top of it by cable car, which will stop halfway up at Morro de Urca. Both of these sites will provide you with picturesque views of the sea and city below. Rio de Janeiro is a great destination for your vacation in Brazil, or for the lucky ones, a romantic honeymoon in Brazil!

Don’t forget about Corcovado Mountain with the famous Jesus Statue. This is the most visited spot in Rio. The view here is also fabulous and a must see for anyone with a sense of adventure. Your vacation in Brazil will be also and adventure! Rio de Janeiro is waiting for you to discover its wonderful nature!

Speaking of adventure, perhaps you are one who looks to turn the adrenaline up a few notches. Hang gliding from the popular, Pedra da Gavea (Topsail rock) is a real hit for adrenaline junkies. It boasts a height of about 3000 feet and includes your landing on Pepino beach below. Travel to Brazil!

It is not at all unusual to see some of the famous soccer players like Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, or maybe even Pele himself playing a game of Futevoley (a combination of soccer and volleyball) at one of these popular spots. Copacabana also boasts one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in the world at their New Year’s celebration. The fireworks are done in the most organized fashion from atop hotels and in boats well out in the harbor. Though often the attendance reaches the two million mark, it is a safe and joyous affair. Plan your vacation in Rio de Janeiro! Travel to Brazil!

Some of the other famous districts where the middle and upper classes like to congregate include: Barra de Tijuca, Lagoa, Jardim Botanico, Gavea, Flamengo, Botafogo, and Laranjeiras. Most of which can be reached easily and somewhat luxuriously on Rio’s sophisticated underground metro system. Speaking a bit more abstractly, picture some junctures that simply don’t exist in such harmoniously perfect forms in most countries. For example, the mountains meet the ocean and the forest meets the mountains in such blissful synergy it is impossible to describe with words. Travel to Brazil with for an unforgettable experience. Even photos are no substitute for the real thing—you have to witness it for yourself! Another unusual intersection that is not typically contemplated is where the urban jungle meets the real jungle. The Tijuca Forest (in Rio de Janeiro) boasts the second largest forest adjacent to a major city in the world. The largest one is coincidentally also in Rio de Janeiro.

Let us prepare your vacation in Brazil! Contact us for customized packages, as for a romantic honeymoon in Brazil. See the links bellow for more information on hotels, restaurants, and activities for a best vacation in Brazil! Choose the spot for your trip, and we make it the best for you! Travel to Brazil with us and have fun!

 

Travel To Brazil Go For The Thrill

September 13, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Nightlife

Brazil is the largest and most dynamic South American country, bordering all but two of the continent’s other nations. In Brazil, wild Amazon adventures can be coupled with stimulating city sights and leisurely beach escapades. Brazil’s Portuguese colonization along with its participation in the Atlantic triangle slave trade with Africa produced a fusion of cultures that is celebrated today in the form of fantastic food, unmatched festivals, eclectic music beats and a diverse national identity that is finally being embraced.Eco-Sensations
Brazil’s expansive terrain is endless with natural wonders. Nearly forty percent of the world’s remaining tropical rainforests is part of Brazil’s Amazon and Atlantic forests, which are home to over 2.5 million species of insect and one-fifth of the world’s bird species! The notorious carnivorous piranha lingers in numerous quantities in the Amazon River’s waters, along with the fascinating Boto, the largest species of river dolphin. The mysterious Anaconda snake also lurks in the river’s basin; but have no fear, they are generally harmless to humans. At the Argentinean border, Iguau Falls embodies the extent of Brazil’s beauty with over 275 different waterfalls merging together into one harmonious rush of thunder with a vast number of scenic trails winding around the cascading cliffs and lush estuaries. Another aquatic phenomenon occurs 10 kilometers upstream from the city of Manaus where the dark waters of the Negro River join the yellowish Solimoes River without blending for a few kilometers. This dual colored waterway is the beginning of the Amazon River.

Carnival, and That’s Not All
Though some claim that the festival of Carnival is the best time to visit Brazil’s liveliest city, Rio de Janeiro, this pulsing metropolis is booming with life all year long. The dense population provides unrelenting entertainment while the beautiful beaches tend to be the ultimate draw. The urban centers of Sao Paulo and Brasilia, the official capital, are also teeming with nightlife, activities and history. Remember when you travel to Brazil that the southern urban regions experience a (very) mild winter during the months of June to August and the peak of summer is in January. The northern tropical regions are steadily warm year-round.

Finding Adventure In Brazil

September 11, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Restaurants

When you travel to Brazil, you will be surprised by how much the landscape will change. You can travel to larger cities like Rio de Janeiro, visit the Amazon rainforests, or find a quiet beach to read or relax in the sun. If you enjoy the outdoors, there is much to see in Brazil. Since the country is so big, you may have to make several trips in order to see all the Brazil has to offer. With many small towns in between larger ones, you will be able to see how different people live and how different cultures survive together.

The biggest event that takes place in Brazil is Carnival, which is held as a way to celebrate the beginning lent. Smaller carnival celebrations are help all over Brazil in smaller cities including Salvador, Recife, and Olinda. Sao Paulo, which is a large city in Brazil, also hosts a carnival celebration. It is best to visit plan a visit to Brazil during carnival season a few months in advance as many people visit during this time.

If you want to visit the Amazon rainforests, there are parts of it that you will be able to see. You will be able to join tour groups that will take you into parts of the jungle. There you will see many different types of vegetation, wildlife, and other life forms that inhabit the rainforests. You will also learn about the struggle to preserve the rainforests and how precious they are to the earth.

After learning about the rainforests, you may want to relax by the ocean. Brazil has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. You can choose to visit a public beach or you can find a private stretch of beach. If you choose to stay near the beach, you will be able to surf, play sports, and sit in the sun all day long if you choose. There are many outdoor activities, sporting events, walking, hiking, and camping activities that you can take part in during your stay in Brazil.

If you are looking for great restaurants, night clubs, and bars, you should stay in the capital of Brazil, Sao Paulo, or in Rio. There you will find many people who enjoy going out with friends to eat food and socialize. There are many different restaurants to choose from. After eating, you can go dancing, sit in a bar and talk, or you can take long walks on the beach.

Visiting Brazil is a fun way to spend a vacation. With so many activities to choose from, you will never be bored. Find out more information before deciding where to stay in Brazil. Depending on what you are interested in, you will find small and large towns that can accommodate you.

Hotel review: Rio Hotel and Suites Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

August 31, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Hotels

I’ve never been in Rio de Janeiro, but the Rio Hotel & Suites in Vegas surely portray the festive mood that precedes everything I’ve heard about Brazil.

The brilliant colors everywhere, the sexy uniforms of bar waitresses, the loud music that moves your body even when you are not aware that you are tapping your feet and moving your hips to the to the rhythm makes you upbeat in an instant, even if you’ve been driving all day to get there. (We drove from Rockport Texas to Vegas in two days)

Planning a wedding is a stressful event, prior, during and after. But when you are planning a wedding in Vegas and you live in the opposite coast, it could have gotten out of hands “anxy” but I have to give credit who credit deserves. The Rio made it all perfect! and with no hussle at all.

We decided to marry in Vegas because I had never visited the town before, and also because my fiancee had a three night, four days complimentary stay. I spent a whole month visiting on line every restaurant available in Vegas in a circumference of on or about 5 miles from our hotel. There were many fine options for our wedding reception, yet one stole my heart and got my attention: The All American bar and Grill at the Rio.

Because we, and most of our guests were from Texas, a good grilled steak seemed appropriate for all taste buds, bride and groom included. Reservations were made, voucher was opened, contract was mailed, and the eventful day finally arrived.

because I had been married before, I was sure of one thing, I did not want to spend my wedding day, organizing seating arrangements, decorating the long table we chose near the fireplace, etc. I wanted to be able to enjoy my wedding reception. It surpassed all my expectations!

The menu not only was delicious but served with care and on a timely manner. Presentation of the dishes was artistic to say the least,and the service rendered by the waiter was out of this world. Not only he was “Cruise” level professionalism ( I’ve traveled to more than 71 cities around the world, and the best waiters on earth are the ones who serve on a cruis ship) His timing was precise, his manners and memory; perfect.

While we were palating our desert (carrot cake with cream cheese icing with a kiwi sauce) our waiter gave us a glimpse of his dreams: to be an ilussionist. He performed three tricks for us twenty comensals, and although they were “simple” so I was told, his enthusiasm and spontaniety were welcome and appreciated. I guess that if New York and Los Angeles are the house of actors/waiter, Las Vegas has its share of entertainer/waiters as well.

Usually one you travel, even in the best of trips there is most of the time one or two issues that kind of somehow spoil the perfect trip, not this time, I can’t think of anything that was out of time, out of place or out of budget. Suites were beautiful, slot machines were abundant, tables ( my husband won $700 dollars on our wedding night at the Craps table)were Zizzling Hot! and although I always made fun of vegas slogan: “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas’ in my case it is true; My heart stayed in Vegas as one of my favorite destinations in this part of the world. The Rio? NUMERO UNO in hotel experience.

Brazil – a real estate investors dream?

August 24, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Restaurants

With a relatively stable political structure and an enviably healthy economy derived largely from foreign investment into residential real estate and oil reserves, the Latin American giant Brazil is, it seems, bucking the global downturn that is affecting many markets around the world and emerging something of an investors’ dream. In fact, it was named the world’s most significant emerging market in the respected Morgan Stanley’s Emerging Market Index just recently. Beleaguered global financial markets are looking at Brazil’s economy with admiration it seems.

“Brazil’s central bank believes that it has underestimated the strength of its economy and has moved its previous forecast of 4.5 per cent GDP growth for 2008 up to 4.8 per cent,” says Samantha Gore of uv10, a Brazil property specialist company based in Spain. “Having studied figures just released, which show Brazil’s current GDP to be £749 billion in 2007, up 5.4 per cent on 2006, the official number-crunchers decided that they’d been too cautious. Brazil does seem to be resilient to the turbulence in the northern half of the Americas, a turbulence which has sent shockwaves across Europe. And, while the Spanish property market is currently down on its luck, Brazil has the very same to thank for making a major contribution to its current fortune.”

Its property market is still very much in its infancy, however. Prices are still well below the £80k mark in most areas and are expected to yield a good rate of capital growth over the next few years as current demand way outstrips supply. Estimates suggest capital growth could be as much as 20 per cent year-on-year.

Nearly eight million new homes are needed to cater for the country’s growing population, but while its cities like Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro may be home to the largest number of its residents, it is the north-east region that is seeing a surge in investment property.

Much of the current real estate development is focused on the Rio Grande do Norte region on the north-east coast, and more specifically around Natal, the region’s capital. The city is widely regarded as having some of the finest palm tree-lined beaches and lagoons in the world that stretch for 400 or more miles. The coastline is characterised by a chain of sand dunes, including the Genipabu and Tibau do Sul dunes that have bars and restaurants dotted along their length, and the bays of Pipa and Pirangi. Small resorts are springing up, although the whole area is still new in terms of real estate development.

Uv10 is currently marketing a number of developments in the north-east. Among them, the Quinta da Lagoa resort of 83 high-spec studio, townhouses and bungalows that the company says is ideal for rentals. Located in Tibau do Sul, near Natal, the development guarantees five per cent gross per annum for three years from delivery. “Judging by the figures from its sister resort, Pousada dos Girassois in Pipa, which enjoys 80 per cent occupancy per year, you could stand to make a lot more,” says Gore. “Girassois is one of the most successful developments in Pipa and the value of property for sale in Pipa has doubled in just two years.”

Prices at Quinta da Lagoa start from around £45,200.

Around 80,000 new houses and apartments are earmarked for the north-eastern region, especially around Natal, to cater for the region’s growing population and the demand from foreigners for second residences.

While this appears a large figure the area is vast however, and development is controlled by the government to protect the environment, adding to the area’s appeal as an investment hotspot. Combine this with the potential for some good rental returns from the region’s increasingly buoyant tourism sector that has seen significant investment in sports and leisure centres in recent years, and you have an area of Brazil that is becoming more and more appealing.

“The property market in Natal is in its relative infancy and the coastline is almost development-free; supply currently lags way below demand,” says Trevor Byrne, GEM Estates’ Brazil expert. “New development is springing up alongside sporting and leisure facilities but the authorities are paying great attention to the environment before granting licenses – aesthetics and stability are of greater importance to them than squeezing every last penny out of every last square metre.”

GEM Estates is currently offering spacious beachside apartments and villas in Tibau do Sul for as little as £75,200 and village apartments in nearby Maracajaú from £45,000. Its Lago Azul development in Tibau do Sul has a frontline beach position with ocean views. There are many on-site amenities, such as pools and tennis courts. So confident is the company in the project that it is offering all clients a seven per cent guaranteed rental return for three years from completion. The company also has Ma-Noa Park in the village of Maracajaú, near Natal, which is famed for its on-site aqua park and extensive sports facilities, including a golf course and football pitch. Prices are low and capital growth expected to be high.

“Prices of property for sale in Natal are incredibly low right now but outside investment in infrastructure such as golf courses and a new airport will increase demand for property and inevitably trigger natural price hikes,” adds Byrne. “Being the closest part of Brazil to Europe, thus drastically cutting down flying times to between seven and nine hours from most European cities, Natal has phenomenal beaches, a permanent summer and with year-round rental potential suits both audiences – the pure investor and the holiday-home hunter.”

The whole area, which enjoys a glorious climate, has attracted government funding to protect the natural heritage as well as enhancing the tourist infrastructure. Development work is closely monitored so as not to detract from the area’s natural wonders. Its towns, villages and small resorts are connected by the coastal highway that winds its way through countryside overlooking the bays and dunes, while Natal’s Augusto Severo International Airport has regular flights to and from Europe. A brand new multimillion-pound airport is under construction and is due to be completed by 2010. It will be the largest airport in Latin America.

Further investment has come though the likes of international sports stars Rubens Barrichello, who is building a motor sports facility in the region, and David Beckham, the force behind a football academy in Natal. The project is timely for when Brazil hosts the 2014 World Cup. The region around Natal is also earmarked for several large golf courses. Projects such as these increase the region’s potential for tourism, and thereby rental income and capital growth on real estate investment significantly.

“The investment in the general infrastructure and tourism in the north-east of Brazil has been significant over the past few years, and is set to continue for the foreseeable future,” says Deanne DuKhan, portfolio strategist with specialist property company Experience International in London. The company is currently marketing a number of new high specification projects, including the Jacuma Beach Resort in Natal where prices start from just £63,700, the nearby luxury beachside resort of Praia Bonita, where studios and apartments start from £39,070 and the gated community of Pipa Paradise, which comprises 128 sizable apartments and villas that offer good value at prices from £61,899.

“The government is committed to developing the area and with the new airport just a couple of years away we feel that property in the Natal area and along this coastline of Brazil offer some of the most exciting investment opportunities we have seen in a long time.”

Rio Cultural Centers: Flamengo Options

August 23, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Restaurants

Thinking about renting an apartment in Flamengo? Excellent idea! Flamengo has become an increasingly sought-out neighborhood in Rio for several reasons, including its art deco architecture buildings, famous bars like Belmonte and ultimately its cultural centers and museums. Until the 1950s, Flamengo and Catete were the principal residential zones of Rio’s wealthier middle class and that may be the reason why some of many embassies (today consulates) were established here.

Nowadays, Flamengo is a vibrant middle-class residential neighborhood, with much charm and culture to be had. In this article we will describe some of the cultural centers and museums established in the Flamengo district including the Modern Art Museum, Oi Futuro Cultural Center, and the Catete Palace. The best thing is that most of these marvels are free.

Our first stop is the city ´s Modern Art Museum. It has a privileged location on Flamengo Park alongside Guanabara Bay, with the landscaping designs of Burle Marx. The Museum of Modern Art in Rio de Janeiro started its construction in 1954, and is perhaps architect Affonso Eduardo Reidy´s most striking design: rows of angled concrete ribs support and enclose the gallery space. Inaugurated in 1958, the Modern Art Museum has a very unusual history; after a tragic fire in 1978 burned most of its collection, and damaged the structure of the building, a tremendous reconstruction effort put the museum back on its feet, and today the permanent collection has over 2,000 pieces by Brazilian and international artists. A major contribution was made by art patron Gilberto Chateubriand, with a private collection of 4,000 pieces. It is also under the care of MAM, and can be seen in the permanent exhibition. An interesting program of art shows and exhibitions keep the museum as an excellent attraction throughout the year. An impressive collection of the works of Picasso, Max Ernst, Rodin, Brancusi and other artists from Brazil and elsewhere is housed in this concrete and glass building in Flamengo Park.

Another major attraction of the Museum of Modern Art is the film collection (”Cinemateca do MAM”), one of the best in Latin America, with over 12,000 titles including some rarities. There are sessions and festivals open for the general public, with Brazilian and foreign cult movies that are not normally shown on the commercial circuit. Art workshops are held at the Oficina da Gravura. Additional Information on the Modern Art Museum in Rio: Open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 12 noon to 6 p.m. Av. Infante Dom Henrique, 85 – Flamengo Park.

Our next Cultural Center for Flamengo is OI FUTURO, located at Rua Dois de Dezembro, 66. The Center is maintained and supported by major telecom player in Brazil: OI and has been receiving since its founding grants from several foundations to enhance its cultural assets and infrastructure. OI FUTURO is housed in a building that was built in 1918 and has just been remodeled, resulting in a gain of over two thousand square meters of internal space. The building’s fa?e was preserved. There are four floors, interposed among the building’s eight levels, connected by glass stairways and elevators. Each floor presents different exhibits throughout the month. OI FUTURO’s varied program includes activities related to music, videos and plastic arts. Visitors will also find an up-to-date library with an abundance of research material: magazines, newspapers and on-line computers as well as exhibition rooms. A full multi-use theater with 180 seats presents regular plays every week, at popular prices. A very charming Wi-Fi connected bistro is located at the upper floor of the Cultural Center, which leads to the terrace of the building. From the terrace, you can even see part of the Flamengo beach and Guanabara Bay. You can check OI FUTURO ´s monthly cultural program and schedule in English at http://www.oifuturo.org.br/oifuturo.htm#/en/

Additional Information on the OI Futuro Cutural Center: Open Hours: Tues-Sun. 11am-8pm; Address: Rua Dois de Dezembro, 63 – Flamengo, Phone:(21)3131-3060. Free Admission for several exhibits, with the exception of theater plays.

Our last stop is the Catete Palace. The Catete Palace – seat of Brazil’s Republican Government from 1897 to 1960 and scene of activities of eighteen Presidents – has seen some of the most important events in Brazil’s political life, including the Declaration of Brazil’s entry into World Wars I and II and the suicide of President Get? Vargas in 1954. Transformed into a museum when Bras?a became the nation’s capital in 1960, and closed for restoration from 1983 through 1989, the Republic Museum reopened with a broad-ranging cultural program that includes exhibitions, concerts, plays, movies, videos, boutiques, restaurants and a book-store.

The gardens of the Museum acquired new lighting, with the replacement of 71 forged iron posts – in the eclectic style – for other posts with contemporaneous designs made of steel. Today, on the ground floor, the Entrance Hall and the Ministerial Room still retain the solemn atmosphere of capital meetings and decisions regarding the nation’s destiny. Two long-standing exhibits present historical information about the first occupant of the Palace and his descendents and about the inauguration of the Republic Museum. The remaining rooms hold temporary exhibits that represent varied aspects of Republican Brazil.

On the second floor, known as the “noble floor”, luxury and thematic diversity stand out. The Chapel room and the Blue, Noble, Pompeian, Venetian, Moorish and Banquette rooms show off their vintage Brazilian and French furniture, paintings from artists such as Baptista da Costa, Gustavo dall’Ara, D?o Vilares, Rodolfo Amoedo, Henrique Bernardelli, besides sculptures, chandeliers and porcelain from the 19th and 20th Centuries. The third floor highlights the reconstruction of President Get? Vargas’ room. The remaining rooms are devoted to the display of objects, text documents and photographs from the Republic Museum’s own collection. The complex also hosts one of my favorite movie theaters in town. The theater is especially known for its art movies and is named “Cinema Museu da Rep?ca”. You can check the theater’s schedule in any newspaper in town.

Additional Information on the Catete Palace: Open Hours:Tues-Thurs-Fri, noon-5pm Wed, 2pm-5pm- Sat-Sun-Holidays, 2pm-6pm. Free admission Sundays and Wednesday to the Catete Museum. Address: Rua do Catete, 153 – Catete. Phone: (21) 3235-2650 The park in the Catete Palace is opened for visits until 10 p.m.

We described in this article only some of Flamengo´s cultural centers and museums. There are many other Cultural Centers all within the Flamengo district boundaries, with many art exhibits and public libraries. We also suggest and appoint the following:

Figner Mansion Arte SESC Cultural

Julieta de Serpa House of and Culture

Cultural Center Oduvaldo Viana Filho

Carmen Miranda Museum

Telephone Museum

As we mentioned before, most of these Cultural Centers have free admittance. Other positive aspects of these cultural centers we described above, is that they are very modern and underwent major renovation efforts. If you have cultural interests, consider settling in Flamengo neighborhood on your next trip to Rio. We are sure this district hosts one of the liveliest cultural scenarios in town.

Why Plan Rio De Janeiro Brazil Travel

August 13, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Hotels

You might have heard that Rio Janeiro Brazil is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. So what is it that makes it so remarkable and alluring? It has plenty of hot places and interesting locations that you must visit. So if you have never considered planning Rio de Janeiro Brazil travel, it is time now. For more details, read on.

One of the most popular events in Rio Janeiro Brazil is the carnival which is held every year. It goes on for four days and nights; an extravagant manifestation that is the outcome of a whole year of preparation, organization and practice. If you are interested in planning you Rio de Janeiro Brazil travel so that you are there for the carnival, just make sure you check out the dates as they change each year. To reach any one of the carnival locations, you might have to make travel arrangements from your place of stay, so you should compare the flight tickets and book accordingly. You can also look through agencies dealing with apartment rentals or hotels; you can do this on the Net as well.

Next in order of importance in Rio Janeiro Brazil are the beaches. Some of the most popular Brazilian beaches include Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, Barra, Praia do Pepino and Leme. If you are not one who enjoys the beach so much, then perhaps the nightlife will be something youd like better. If that is the case, then you could visit Copacabana which is famous for its superb nightlife. If you are planning Rio de Janeiro Brazil travel, another place to visit is Ipanema which is well-known for the performances of the classical arts, bars and dance clubs.

If you love watching football games, then Maracana in Rio Janeiro Brazil is one of the biggest football stadiums in the whole world which seat as many as a hundred thousand spectators. Or if you are planning a honeymoon or are a romantic anyway, you may plan Rio de Janeiro Brazil travel; you can take an aerial tram in the evening to the Sugar loaf mountain for breath-taking views for the beaches, Guanabara Bay and the city

Other places of interest in Rio Janeiro Brazil include the Amsterdam Sauer Museum which is situated on Ipanema’s Diamond Row and has a colorful display of gems as well as a model of a mine. The Museo Carmen Miranda has on display wonderful baiana costumes and headdresses of star singers. For the sporting type, you have windsurfing, water-skiing, cycling, golf, parachuting, hang-gliding, diving, tennis and squash. Or if you want an aerial sightsee of Rio de Janeiro you might want to take a ride in a helicopter. If you are at Copacabana, dont forget to explore the Parque Nacional de Tijuca which is like a jungle. You can take a stroll on Praca Floriano if you would like to take pleasure in the outdoor cafes, samba musicians or the Teatro Municipal which is the home of the orchestra, opera and striking architecture. So plan you Rio de Janeiro Brazil travel accordingly.

Holidaying in South America:rio De Janeiro, Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo

May 1, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Hotels




South America is a vast continent of jungles, rain forests and some of the world’s most exciting cities. Miles and miles of fabulous beaches, soaring mountains and a passionate culture that thrives on music and dance make the region a must for a holiday.

Rio de Janeiro

Rio sits between lush mountains and the glorious beaches fronting the Atlantic and is a true city of the imagination. The pulse of the samba is rarely absent from this city in which every day is a celebration.

Climate

Like all of coastal Brazil, Rio is sultry and humid for most of the year. Summer temperatures hover around 28 C. The rainy season occurs from October to January. Winters in Rio feature temperatures of around 23 C.

Transport:getting there and getting away

Flights connect Rio with all of Brazil and Latin America, as well as many other major cities. Buses depart for most destinations from Novo Rio Rodoviaria.

City buses are often crowded and struggle through Rio’s traffic. Rio has an excellent, air-conditioned subway system but it only covers points north of Botafogo.

Accommodation:from cheap stays to luxury resorts

Check on the internet for the range, location and cost of Rio de Janeiro hotels

Events:what’s on and what’s hot

*Carnaval is the five-day internationally-famous extravaganza beginning at midnight on the Friday before Ash Wednesday. Dancing, parades, head-dresses and flaunted bodies make up this unforgettable spectacle.

*The Fiestas Junina’s is celebrated in public squares throughout June.

*August 15 sees music, colorful stalls and a parade celebrating the Festa de NS da Gloria do Outeiro.

*Festa da Penha is one of the largest religious festivals in the city. It’s held every Sunday in October.

Buenos Aires

With its fading architecture, grand boulevards and old-style cafes Buenos Aires seems like an European city of another era.

Transport:getting there and getting away

Buenos Aires is a major transport hub for the southern part of South America. The city has two airports: Aeropuerto Internacional Ministro Pistarni (known as Ezeiza), for international flights. Domestic and regional flights use Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (Aeroparque) which is just five miles out of town. Both airports can be reached by bus.

Getting around Buenos Aires is easy. The city boasts an efficient underground known as the Subte and a round-the-clock bus system. Plus the major tourist attractions are near each other so it’s well worth exploring on foot.

Climate

Summers are hot with the temperatures reaching 40 C and winters can get very cold. Spring (October to November) and Autumn (March to May) are warm and pleasant. Rain can come at any time but it tends not to be heavy.

Accommodation:from cheap stays to luxury resorts

Check on the internet for the range, location and cost of Buenos Aires hotels

Events

* Buenos Aires Tango is a tango festival that takes place between late February and early March all over the city.

* The Feria del Libro annual book fair celebrates Latin American literature in April at the Centro Municipal de Exposicions.

* Mid-May sees the art fair, Arte BA.

*More tango related activities on June 24 when aficionados remember Carlos Gard el, the man who made the tango famous.

*December features the Campeonato Abierto Argentino de Polo.

São Paulo

São Paulo is the largest city in South America. It’s also Brazil’s most cosmopolitan and boasts pulsating nightlife, fine restaurants and an impressive cultural and arts life.

Transport:getting there and getting away

São Paulo has three airports: São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport (GRU, for domestic and international flights) and Congonhas, (CGH, for domestic flights).

The city is very congested so the subway is the best method of getting around.The buses are very crowded.

Climate

Not as pleasant as other Brazilian cities but generally warm and sunny all year round. Rainfall is highest during the summer months.

Accommodation:from cheap stays to luxury resorts

Check on the internet for the range, location and cost of Sao Paulo hotels

Events

*São Paulo Fashion Week is the crowning event in the Brazilian fashion scene.

*São Paulo Gay Parade in June features a huge carnival.

*Brazilian F1 Grand Prix is in October.



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