Brazil launches educational website and game app to woo tourists

by McLean Robbins on

The Brazilian Tourism Board, known as Embratur, has launched two new tools to woo potential visitors. The country is on the cusp of world attention with the coming 2014 FIFA World Cup and Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The new tools – an interactive Brand Channel website and a new video game app called “Brasil Quest” – are designed help travelers learn more about the country and plan trips.

The Brazil Brand Channel website, developed in partnership with Google, will assist travelers in planning their trips to the country through interactive tools, images and detailed information about what to do while in Brazil. The site officially launches on Tuesday. New Yorkers can test the site at Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt Hall from noon to 3:30 p.m. that day.

Thursday, Embratur will launch the free “Brasil Quest” game app for iPhone, iPad and Android in Times Square. The game celebrates the 12 Brazilian host cities of the 2014 FIFA World Cup through the journey of YEP, an alien that decides to visit Brazil in search of happiness and becomes enchanted with the country’s beauty and offerings. Users can download the game at their smartphone App Store and Google Play beginning March 23.

From noon to 5 p.m. EDT on Thursday, March 22, visitors can go to the northwest corner of 45th Street and Broadway to play the game, which will be broadcast on a large screen in Times Square. The top three players will win a trip for two to one of three popular destination cities – Rio de Janeiro, Salvador or Manaus.

[Image via Brazil Tourism]

Tips for enjoying Rio de Janeiro’s beaches without looking like a tourist

by Jessica Marati on

If you daydream of sunbathing on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, you probably have visions of looking tall, tan, young and lovely. But more often than not, you probably just look like a tourist. Thankfully, we have some tips that’ll have you faking the local carioca look in no time, so you can worry more about catching rays than robbers.

Choose the right posto
Some of Brazil‘s most famous beaches — Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon — are located in Rio’s Zona Sul, and their sections are divided by lifeguard stands called postos. The area in front of Posto 6 in Copacabana is crowded and touristy, while Posto 8, recognizable by the large rainbow flag flying over it, hosts a predominantly gay crowd. Postos 9 and 10 have a younger, more bohemian feel. Choose the posto that’s right for you.

Dress appropriately
For the gals, that means itty-bitty string bikinis (appropriately called fio dental in Portuguese) – all women of all sizes wear them so you don’t have to worry about stares. Guys can get by with a pair of boardshorts or speedos. Havaianas are mandatory for everyone. And please, keep your clothes on — or hop in a taxi to Rio’s only official nude beach, Abricó.

%Gallery-150759%Rent a beach chair or bring a kanga (sarong)
A borrowed hotel towel will make you a target in no time. On the more popular strips, beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent. Just sit on one, and someone will come to collect the charge, which should be no more than a few Reais. You can also lie out on a kanga (sarong) brought from home, or purchase one right on the beach. They also make great souvenirs.

Come with an appetite
Most cariocas don’t bring picnics or drink coolers to the beach. Instead, they take advantage of the hundreds of food vendors who make their way up and down the strip, hawking everything from cold beers to iced teas to sandwiches and empanadas. It’s a great chance to sample Rio’s famous street food.

Pay attention to the sunscreen meters
Rio’s most popular beaches post SPF recommendations based on the day’s weather for a variety of different skin tones. Pay heed: southern hemisphere sun is no joke, and nothing spells gringo like a red hot sunburn.

For more posts from Brazil, check out Gadling’s recent coverage of Rio Carnival 2012.

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A history of coffee in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and the best cafes to get some for yourself

by Jessica Festa on

Want to know where you can find some of the best coffee in the world? While your local coffee shop probably has some decent brews, you can find the really good stuff in São Paulo, Brazil.

Introduced by Francisco de Melo Palheta in the eighteenth century – from seeds smuggled in from French Guiana – coffee was Brazil’s greatest economy booster from the early nineteenth century until the 1930s. Concentrated in the Paraíba Valley between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, and later around the red soil areas of the countryside of São Paulo and Paraná, it was the country’s main export for almost 100 years.Large coffee plantations

In the beginning, coffee plantations were small, isolated worlds of their own. They sat on expansive properties and incorporated slave work, which was later replaced by regular employees and immigrants. Today, coffee is produced in more factory-type farms, and these traditional plantations are no longer operational. They can, however, still be visited in the São Paulo countryside. The visits can provide a trip back in history, as traditional architecture, machinery and slaves’ barracks can still be seen on the properties.

One important aspect in coffee production was the size of the available workforce. To help create a higher output, the administration of the state of São Paulo made the immigration issue the focus of its activities, establishing a program that supported European immigration. Advertisements were run all over Europe, and immigrants were brought from their homes to the coffee farms. This allowed for rapid development in São Paulo.

With immigrant labor, the culture of coffee gained momentum and – for three quarters of a century – almost all of the country’s wealth was concentrated in coffee agriculture. Coffee farmers became the social and political elite and the new aristocracy in Brazil. This helped industrialization and allowed for the construction of large and beautiful farm houses and mansions in São Paulo.

The crack of 1929

The international crisis of 1929 had an immediate dual effect in the Brazilian economy: while it reduced international demand for Brazilian coffee and pushed prices down, it prevented the Brazilian government from borrowing international funds to absorb the surplus stocks of coffee. However, the government could not abandon the vulnerable producers and, from this period on, the Brazilian government began to play an active role in the economy. Coffee was something so important to the Brazilian economy, many began to call it the “green gold.”

Brazilian coffee today

Currently, Brazil is the world’s largest producer of coffee, accounting for 30% of the international coffee market. This is equivalent to the production of six other major producing countries. The coffee grounds are concentrated in four major producing states: Minas Gerais, Paraná, Espírito Santo, and, of course, São Paulo. So where can you get a little sip of heaven for yourself? Here is a list of the city’s top coffee shops and padarias (bakeries) where you can get the best brews that São Paulo has to offer.

Coffee Shops:

  • Arábia Café (pictured)- Opened in 2007, they serve coffees, sandwiches, and Brazil’s famous esfihas, savory pastries filled with meat, vegetables, and spices.
  • Coffee Lab– This roasting lab focuses on micro brews and features coffees with unique characteristics.
  • Nespresso (Nestlé boutique)– This famous brand developed exclusive capsules called Novo Dulsao do Brasil, which combine tastes of honey and malt.
  • Octavio Café & Bistrô– An official coffee evaluation done by the Universidade de São
    Paulo revealed that this venue serves some of the highest quality coffee in the area in terms of a full sensual experience.
  • Santo Grão– Here you will find select Brazilian blends, which are served fresh ground and roasted. You can even call the shop to see when the next round of coffee grinding will be, so you can watch the process for yourself.

Padarias:

  • Bella Paulista– This fusion bakery combines fresh coffee and baked goods with a pizza and snack bar, fulfilling every craving you may have.
  • Benjamin Abrahão Mundo dos Pães– This very traditional padaria has been open since 1952, and serves some of the best coffee in São Paulo.
  • Di cunto– Also very traditional, this padaria has been open since 1935 and has been developing their product over time.
  • Dona Deôla– This venue was opened in 1948 by Mrs Dona Deola, a Portuguese immigrant. Her hard work over the years has paid off, and her successful products have allowered her to open four bakeries.
  • Galeria dos Pães– If you want delicious coffee and great service at any time, this bakery has over 200 employees and 24 hour service.

[photos via anthony_p_c, DrikvdM, andybullock77, Arabia Cafe]

Isolated tribe discovered in Paraguay

by Kraig Becker on

Officials in Paraguay say that they have found evidence of a never-before contacted tribe living in a remote region of that country’s Chaco forest. The discovery came about as two Brazilian ranching companies moved into the region and began encroaching on the tribe’s space. Now there are fears that these indigenous people could be unfairly forced off their land due to increased deforestation and a growing number of cattle ranches.

Experts believe that the tribe belongs to the Ayoreo Totobiegosode culture, which is a reclusive group that has had violent encounters with the outside world in the past. While this particular tribe has yet to be spotted, authorities say they have found numerous footprints, broken branches and traps designed to capture turtles. Those traps resemble the ones used by other Ayoreo tribes encountered in other parts of the forest.

Brazilian companies River Plate and BBC recently purchased the land on which this tribe lives. Those two organizations have been systematically logging the forest to create more land for grazing cattle and both were cited for illegal deforestation in the region just last year. As these two companies continue to remove trees from the Chaco forest, they force the natives living there onto increasingly smaller plots of land or into a situation where they can no longer avoid contact with outsiders.Because these tribes haven’t been touched by the modern world, first contact must be handled very delicately. The indigenous people lack immunities to diseases and infections that we take for granted and something as simple as the common cold can have a devastating effect on a tribe. It is also not uncommon for them to react violently against interlopers in their territory, particularly interlopers that they don’t understand very well. It is because of these dangers that the United Nations has passed a treaty that makes it illegal to contact these people unless communication is first initiated by members of the tribe.

The Paraguayan government hasn’t decided how it will proceed yet, although there have been calls to investigate how River Plate and BBC came by the plots of land they are now clearing of trees. It is highly possible that the government will step in and prevent further encroachment on the land in order to protect the natives who are living there, but that outcome is far from certain.

When I read stories such as this one I can’t help but wonder what those tribes think of us when they encounter us for the first time. Clearly we are of the same species but we have technology that must seem like magic to them. I can’t imagine how that makes them feel.

[Photo credit: IIosuna via WikiMedia]

Weekend trip from Rio de Janeiro: Buzios, Brazil

by Jessica Festa on

While many travelers to Brazil choose to spend a majority of their time in the large and lively metropolitan city of Rio de Janeiro, there is a culturally rich and sophisticated village about two hours away that is well worth a visit. Búzios, with its sandy beaches, opportunities for adventure, ambient restaurants, and charming shops, was once a tiny fishing town made famous by a visit from actress Brigitte Bardot in 1964. Now, the area is thought to be similar to the luxurious Saint-Tropez, and for good reason.

Getting in:

To get to Búzios you can fly into Búzios Airport, which receives regular flights from Guarulhos Airport in São Paulo, or from Santos Dumont in Rio de Janeiro on Fridays and Sundays. Private and non-regular aircrafts use Umberto Modiano Airport, also in Armação dos Búzios. Likewise, you can catch a Viação 1001 bus daily from Rodoviária Novo Rio in Rio de Janeiro.
Beaches:

Búzios is world-renowned for its breathtaking beaches. While there are many worth exploring, here are some of the best:

João Fernandinho Beach (pictured right)- This small, laid-back beach has clear, calm water as well as a unique desert-like landscape.

Brava Beach– If you’d prefer something a bit more adventurous, Brava Beach is well-known for its strong waves and excellent surfing opportunities.

Geribá Beach– For those who want to be “in the know” and surround themselves with beautiful people, Geribá Beach attracts a hip and sexy crowd.

Azeda Beach– This secluded beach is said to be one of the most beautiful in all of Brazil. It’s considered an Environmental Protection Area and can only be accessed via water-taxi or hiking a small track from Ossos Beach.

Ferradura Bay– This warm-water beach is loaded with activities including banana boating, waterskiing, bar hopping, and trying different restaurants.

Sports and Adventure:

Because of its excellent water and nature-rich location, Búzios is home to many outdoor and active options, some of which are:

Scuba diving– Because of the crystal-clear water in Búzios, there is great visibility for seeing marine life like giant turtles, grouper, manta rays, and bright corals. Moreover, the water is around 72 degrees, making it comfortable to stay in for long periods of time. One great place to dive is Âncora Island, which you can reach in about 30 minutes via boat. Arraial do Cabo, which is about 30 minutes by car, is another great spot and is well known throughout the entire country. If you’ve never dived before and want to learn, or if you have but would still like to go with an instructor, Casamar, Mar Azul and True Blue are all reputable companies.

Búzios Golf Course– This elite course consists of 18-holes and was designed by internationally famous architects Pete and Perry Dye. Golfers come from all over the globe to experience the unique landscape and topography of the venue, which can be seen by clicking here.

Sailing– Búzios plays host to some great sailing, and athletes come from all over the world. Even famous Brazilian sailing champion Lars Grael practices in Búzios. Furthermore, the city hosts a Brazilian Sailing Week for the country each year. If you’d like to try sailing for yourself, I would recommend going with Happy Surf located on Ferradura Beach.

Experience an eco-tour– Búzios has a diverse landscape of mountains, hills, beaches, and rich flora, making it ideal for people who enjoy hiking and exploring the outdoors. Visit Emerências Reserve, the only place in Búzios where you will find the beautiful and vibrant endangered golden lion tamarin (monkeys), or Tauá Reserve, which is home to over 300 butterfly species and sixty bird types.

Fishing– Because Búzios is surrounded by beaches on all sides, it is a prime location for fishing. Shark, sea bass, anchovas, and sea bream can all be caught and enjoyed from the beaches; however, if you’d like to experience an authentic fishing trip with an experienced local, head over to the Fishermen’s Colony to rent a boat and hire a sailor who will promise a catch of up to twenty fish each hour.

Kite surfing– Búzios, the land of water sports, is also home to excellent kite surfing opportunities. While kite surfing is fun it can also be dangerous, which is why it’s important to learn from a certified instructor. Eduardo Graf, a 6-year instructor certified by the International Kiteboarding Association, runs the Búzios Kitesurf School. Participants will be able to fly like a kite over Rasa Beach while taking in views of the beaches and the town.

Explore the cultural hub of Rua das Pedras (Stone Street)

The cobblestone road, which is often thought of as the place to see and be seen, extends towards the Orla Bardot and is a continuation of the road accompanied by the Armação Beach. Moreover, bars, clubs, hotels, shops, restaurants, and art galleries litter the street, making it a lively and interesting area to explore the city through.

Experience the arts

There are an array of worthwhile galleries and shops on the road to put you in a creative mood while experiencing local and international art. Galeria das Artes features numerous artists from all over the world showcasing a mix of medias like bronze sculptures and oil paintings in permanent displays. If you enjoy public art, Christina Motta has beautiful sculptures set up in the area, like the famous bronze Brigitte Bardot piece (shown above). Other must-see galleries to visit on the street include Celina Lisboa (contemporary paintings), Abigail Schlemm (illusionist paintings), Atelier Flory Menezes (paintings and sculptures on permanent display), and Vilmar Madruga (world-renowned paintings).

Gastronomy

There are an array of diverse and delicious restaurants on Rua das Pedras, but these are some of the best:

Chez Michou– Stop here if you’re craving a casual, mostly open-air atmosphere and delicious sweet and savory crepes. Choose from unique options such as cheese and banana, chicken curry, and caramel banana while enjoying beers, cocktails, and music.

Sawadee– This upscale oriental restaurant with traditional low tables and plush cushions for kneeling brings a fusion of cultures to Brazil. The flavors are exotic and hand-carved decor, Asian-inspired art, outdoor gardens, and numerous small tea lights create an exotic ambiance.

Cigalon– This romantic restaurant has beach views, an extensive wine list, generous portions, and food that seems to be a mix of Argentine and French fare. It is one of the best places in town to get ceviche and delicious duck.

Capricciosa– This famous pizza restaurant bakes pies to perfection. Best of all, they’re made in a wood oven and guests can choose from an array of toppings like spinach, shrimp, tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and more.

Salt– If you like unique dishes and international flavor, you’ll love this place. This contemporary restaurant opened in January of 2011 and is often praised for its fresh seafood, friendly staff, beautiful dark chocolate interior, and upbeat music.

Estancia Don Juan– This funky restaurant is painted in vibrant Earth tones and serves some of the most delicious Argentine cuisine in town. Old photographs and posters adorn the walls and furnishings are carved with unique and precise detail. The wine list is extensive, and their steaks are served sizzling and juicy.

Nightclubs

The nightclubs on Rua das Pedras are some of the best in the world. Check out:

Pacha– For those who love techno and house music, this upbeat indoor/outdoor club has amazing views of Canto Beach. Their unique design features part of the club being partially built in glass, 3 feet below sea level, and overhangs the sea for 98 feet.

Moor- Here you will find a mix of Argentinian restaurants, a bar, and a nightclub on the second floor. The venue also hosts concerts and performances on a regular basis.

Privilege– Known for its world class DJ’s and breathtaking views of Orla Bardot, this upscale two-story nightclub brings in a sexy crowd. If you like trance music and beautiful people, this is where you’ll want to go.

Patio Havana– This sophisticated venue features concerts of blues, jazz, and popular Brazilian music.