sexta-feira, 19 de novembro de 2010

Reserva do Paiva

A PLACE WITH SOPHISTICATION AND CHARM, WHERE YOU CAN LIFE IN SAFETY

Reserva do Paiva. Pernambuco - Brasil

Welcome to the Reserva Paiva, a new concept of living and leisure, with the hallmark of the architect Henri Michel de Fournier, who overcome a major challenge: to strike a balance between the urban architecture and responsible use of the natural resources.

After seeing the Reserva Pava, what could be more perfect?

On the Atlantic Northeast Brazil Cabo de Santo Agostinho, PernambucO

A place with na unique natural beaty that goes beyond imagination.

Reserva do Paiva is located in Cabo de Santo Agostinho, Just 15 minutes away from Recife. State-of-the-art hospital facilities and outstanding gastronomy and cultural life within easy reach.

Reserva do Paiva is located only 9 miles away from Recife International Airport. It is accessed leads over a gated bridge and through a parkway, with electronic security and 24 hour assistance.

HISTORY, CULTURE AND NATURAL BEATY

Pernambuco is the perfect destination to enjoy, live and fall in Love. Cultural diversity, historical and artistic heritage, music, delicious cuisine, crystal water beaches and the joy os its people are the main features os Pernambuco hospitality and happiness.

A UNIQUE BLEND OF THE BEST INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

Pernambuco has a cuisine full of colors, smells, and irresistible flavours. From typical dishes to a refined gastronomy, Pernambuco's touch is unforgettable.

Just 67 houses, 36 on the seafront and 31 with a sea view, designed by six experienced, nationally and internationally renowned architects. Select from among 27 different designs, one of which will be the home of your dreams.

A COMPLETE AND EXCLUSIVE LEISURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND CONVENIENCE INFRASTRUCTURE.

A private club for you and your family to enjoy moments of sheer fun, relaxation and leisure.

Concièrge Club
Covered tennis court
Fitness room
Pilates room
Relaxation Spa
Sauna
Children's pool
Semi-Olympic and leisure pool
Terraces, solarium and look-out point
Reception hall
Discotheque
Bar and lounge
Kid´s club

Games room
Home cinema
Arena theater
Multi-sports court
Society football
Support facilities for sports
Jogging track
Cycle track
Golf buggy track
Tree-lined beach
Management
Changing rooms

ORIGINAL ARCHITECTURE
30 PROJECT OPTIONS DESIGNED BY 6
RENOWNED ARCHITECTS

Projects options include: 04 suites, dining room, 3 living rooms, terraces, deck, pool, gourmet space, and 5 parking spaces in a covered garage.

Design optins include: home-theatre, study, poolside bar, family room, cellar, two housekeepers' rooms and 5 parking spaces for visitors.

For more information visit : http://www.reservadopaiva.com/

quinta-feira, 18 de novembro de 2010

Tambaba Country Club Resort is a luxury 5 star, 150 hectare tropical Brazilian paradise. Located in the north east of Brazil, south of the city of Joao Pessoa in Paraiba, Tambaba Country Club Resort benefits from equatorial year round sunshine, trade wind breezes and an average temperature of 26C.

With Tambaba Country Club Resort within five minutes of four of Brazil’s top beaches, and with over 60 different leisure and recreation facilities on site, there is something for everyone in north east Brazil’s premier country club resort.

With a strong local demand for high quality resorts, explosive national economic growth, ever increasing tourism and in a country offering so much more than just another holiday, Tambaba Country Club Resort stands head and shoulders above the rest.

MASTER PLAN

Tambaba Country Club Resort is 150 hectares of prime tropical paradise, with 30 hectares of leisure activities and facilities and over 15 Hectares of preserved tropical rainforest. Bordered with 2 fresh water and natural spring fed rivers, as well as only 5 minutes from 4 of Brazil’s top beaches, it is modelled on the highly successful European Center Parcs concept.

LOCAL BEACHES

The capital city and the most populated city of the Brazilian state of Paraíba; it is known as the “city where the sun rises first”, due to the fact that the Seixas Cape (Ponta do Seixas), which is the easternmost spot in the Americas.
Founded in 1585, then named Nossa Senhora das Neves Town, João Pessoa is the third oldest city in Brazil, and also the last one to be founded in the country in the 16th Century. The city is also noted for its tropical climate, so pleasant for tourists; for being the largest economy (industry, trade and services), and for collecting the most taxes in the State of Paraíba; for the beauty of its beaches; and especially for the several beautiful baroque art and architectural monuments.During the UN’s Echo 92 conference about the environment, João Pessoa was granted the title of second greenest city in the world. According to an estimate based in the ratio inhabitants/green areas, the city was only behind Paris, France.

Tabatinga (from the Tupi language: Clay formed by sedimentation, soft and oily, and sometimes whitish), is a beach different from any other. There is a thorough amount of clay in this beach, a few meters away from the sea, which can be handled and shaped. Many people believe this clay has phytoterapeutic characteristics, and the tourists love to rub it on their bodies and to take some of it as a souvenir from their trip to the region. Leaving the Carapibus towards Tambaba, you will find more clayey slopes (reefs), White sands and estuary sites with mangrove swamp vegetation (two rivers/swamps).

Considered as one of Brazil’s most beautiful beaches, according to the Quarto Rodas Guide, the cove of the Coqueirinho beach is a beauty known worldwide. A good option here is to refresh oneself in its crystal-clear waters, and later take a walk to one of the region’s most traditional restaurants: The Canyon Restaurant, located at approximately 800 meters away from the cove, is a mandatory stop for every visitor who wishes to try the local cuisine. Try the richness of the Paraiban cuisine, with all of its incomparable colors and flavors, in a paradise-like place. A good hint is the Paraiban “Moqueca” (fish stew) prepared by Chef Ana Luiza, a true pleasure to your taste.

As the name says, the place is incredible! A desert beach of white sand and waves that call for surfing and sports fishing. Praia Bela is a place full of coconut trees and Atlantic Forest native vegetation; it still preserves its original characteristics, such as the region’s native fauna and flora. Around this area, there are allotments with terrains for sale.

Tambaba (From the Tupi language: striking water) is a divine gift with its warm and crystal-clear waters, White sands with stretches spotted with sea shells; a permanent invitation to swimming in its natural pools. The tales say that a pretty Indian girl named Tambaba lived in the region and fell in love with a warrior from another tribe. Tambaba’s father, the chief of his tribe, did not allow their marriage. Tambaba, desperate with her destiny, started crying, and her tears transformed into a lake, and later into a beach, whose mild waves were formed by her hiccoughs. It is internationally known as the only naturism beach in the Brazilian Northeast, where, in September, 2008, the 23rd International Naturism Congress took place. In the neighboring area, Paraíba’s best real estate enterprise is located: The Tambaba Country Club Resort.

As well as geographical location Tambaba Country Club Resort was selected for its transport infrastructure and direct communication links to both residents and national/international tourists alike.
Tambaba Bay

LOCATION

Set within the coastal hills of Pitambui, and 20 minutes from the state capital of Paraiba - Joao Pessoa, Tambaba Country Club Resort is one of the leading luxury resort projects within the north east region of Brazil.

For international visitors the international airport of Joao Pessoa (recently expanded) is 15 minutes from the resort and the airport of Recife is 45 minutes away. Joao Pessoa Airport is now receiving direct international flights from Amsterdam, following their recent International Expansion Programme. With the flight times from Europe within 7 hours and from North America less than 5 hours, Brazil’s north east coast is now easily accessible for all international tourists and the international tourism flying direct into Brazil will only further fuel the areas growth.

Tambaba Country Club benefits from being strategically positioned directly between two host cities for the 2014 Football World Cup (Natal and Recife). It also will directly benefit from the high speed road infrastructure currently underway, resulting in the highway expansion programmes connecting both Recife and Natal with Joao Pessoa city and reducing the time from Natal and Recife International airports by over 30%.

With four of Brazil’s top beaches less than 5 minutes away, the beautiful and historic city of Joao Pessoa 20 minutes, the Oscar Niemeyer Arts Centre 15 minutes and the 2500 person International Convention Centre (currently under construction) less than 10 minutes from the resort there is much to see and do outside of Tambaba Country Club.

The location basks in tropical sunshine and warm temperatures all year round, yet suffers no risk of hurricanes, monsoons or other seasonal challenges unlike other international destinations. This means it is a year round destination for sun seekers, as well as a booming local economy for residents.

GETTING THERE

Located on the main coastal road 15 minutes south of the state capital of Joao Pessoa, Tambaba Country Club Resort directly benefits from being 10 minutes from the new expanded BR-101 dual carriageway. This high speed road runs from the Recife International Airport through Joao Pessoa and on to Natal International Airport. The new BR-101 is a high speed road link connecting three state capital cities.
Driving time from Tambaba Country Club Resort is:

20 minutes to Joao Pessoa International Airport

45 minutes to Recife International Airport

90 minutes to Natal International Airport

Access for local Brazilians from the neighbouring states of Pernambuco and Rio Grande Do Norte, as well as the rest of Paraiba, is excellent. The location, along with new road connections already in place, makes three cities commutable for residents of this resort.

BY AIR

Joao Pessoa International Airport is the closest airport to Tambaba Country Club Resort. Receiving daily flights from Rio De Janeiro, and multiple flights weekly from other major Brazilian cities such as Sao Paolo, Fortaleza, Natal, Brasilia, etc it is already well served as an internal flight destination for Brazilian Tourism.

Recently expanded and internationally certified, Joao Pessoa International Airport also starts receiving International flights from The Netherlands in April 2010 via Arkefly (Tui Group), as well as exploring agreements with other international carriers from Europe and other Latin American cities. Considering the government initiatives to significantly expand direct international tourism (Embratur) to Joao Pessoa, Joao Pessoa is set to become one of the most popular international destinations in the north east of Brazil.

Recife International Airport is only 45 minutes from Tambaba Country Club Resort, and is the largest international airport within the north east of Brazil. Receiving daily flights from all major cities in Brazil and mainland Europe, along with multiple weekly flights from North America and other countries within Latin America already it is the best connected airport in the north east of Brazil. Subject of a large expansion programme ahead of the FIFA 2014 world cup, Recife International provides an excellent connection for international and national tourists alike.

Natal International Airport is less than 90 minutes from Tambaba Country Club Resort. Already popular with European carriers, it is undergoing a major expansion programme with the development of the new Sao Goncalo Do Amarente Airport ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The new airport will be the largest physical airport in Latin America, servicing both international trade distribution and international tourism. With aggressive development in the Natal area, and enhanced high speed links to Joao Pessoa providing an appealing alternative to Natal city, Tambaba Country Club Resort fits nicely within this airport’s catchment area.

THE RESORT

Tambaba Country Club Resort has been designed for universal appeal, boasting the most impressive array of resort leisure activities and facilities in the north east of Brazil. Set in the stunning rolling tropical countryside of Paraiba, and reminiscent of the hills of Tuscanny, this 150 hectare resort captures both your imagination and emotion.

This eco-friendly 5 star resort will consist of the highest quality build of villas and is purposefully designed for both tourism and residential guests. Because of the lay of the land every villa has a view over magnificent hills and coastal forest and the resort is bordered by two fresh spring water rivers available for fishing or swimming. At Tambaba Country Club you also have over 30 hectares of protected tropical forest within your resort borders, ready to be explored at your leisure.

Tambaba Country Club Resort takes its name from one of the four magnificent beaches within 5 minutes of the resort – Tambaba, Tabatinga, Cocquerinho and Praia Bella – which are among some of the top beaches in Brazil. When you consider Brazil has 4650 miles of coastline, it helps you understand why these beaches are special and why you are investing in a location that will benefit from all four, offering so much more than any other traditional beach resort

FACILITIES

Brazilians are some of the most health conscious and active people in the world. Whether to live or to vacation to, the country club concept is proving of significant appeal to both the local and international markets, who look for activities to compliment their time on the beach.

As one of the leading country clubs in Brazil, Tambaba Country Club Resort is designed to provide a wealth of activities to suit all ages and taste.
The on-site facilities and amenities include:

2500 M2 Aquatic Water Park

Swim up Bar

Choice of 3 Restaurants

Games Room

Function Room

Cafés

Spa

Fitness Centre

Sauna

18 Store boutique centre

Artificial beach area

Children’s Pool area

Kids City Play Zone

Children’s party room

Playground

Open Park Areas

Jogging Track

Full Size Football Pitch

5-a-side Football Pitch

Beach Football Pitches

Beach Volleyball Courts

Poli-sports Court

Tennis Courts

Mini Golf Course

Jogging Trail

Archery

BMX Park

Skate Park

Mountain Bike Trails

Rivers & fishing areas

Nature Trails

Horse bridal paths

Equestrian Centre

Meditation Area

Multi Faith worship area

Viewing Towers

Stables

Traditional Brazilian Cottage Industry area

Natural flower honey farm

Market garden centre

Cachaca production area

Milking farm

Shuttle Bus service to local beaches

Shuttle Bus service to city centre

Free resort buggy shuttle service Whether you wish to relax in the spa, fish in the river, visit one of the stunning beaches less than 5 minutes away, have your children play in one of the largest aquatic water parks in the north east or hit the half-pipe with your BMX, there is literally something for everyone.

quarta-feira, 17 de novembro de 2010

Brazil Real Estate Content for Your Website

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Brazilian Cuisine

The vast size of Brazil gives rise to an interesting variation in culinary experiences. Below you can gain an insight into the various types of dishes to expect from each area of Brazil.

Brazil’s population consists of an interesting mix of Portuguese, African, Italian, German, Syrian, Lebanese and Asian origins, creating a rich cultural heritage. This ethnic mix is responsible for the great diversity to be found in the cooking styles of Brazil.
In Brazil, food varies from area to area:

The North

This area covers the rain forests and tributaries of the Amazon River. Culturally, the Amazon basin is heavily populated by native Indians or people of mixed Indian and Portuguese ancestry, living on a diet of fish, root vegetables such as manioc, yams, and peanuts, plus palm or tropical fruits. The cuisine of this region is therefore heavily Indian influenced. One popular dish is Caruru do Para, a one-pot meal of dried shrimps, okra, onion, tomato and coriander.

The Northeast

Inland, the north east region is semi-arid and used for cattle rearing. Here foods typically include ingredients like dried meat, rice, beans, goat, manioc and corn meal.
On the fertile coastal plain, Brazil’s important sugar cane and cacao growing area is located. The spectacular beaches to be found here are responsible for Brazil's fastest growing tourist region. Within the State of Bahia the predominant cuisine is Afro-Bahian, which evolved from plantation cooks improvising on African, Indian, and traditional Portuguese dishes while using locally available ingredients.
On the other coastal plains the influence on food is less African while seafood, shellfish, and tropical fruits remain menu staples.

The Central West

This region comprises open, dry savannahs or prairies with woodlands in the north. The famous Pantanal, one of the finest game and fishing regions on Earth, is also located within this region.
Fish from the main rivers as well as beef and pork from the vast ranches of the region dominate the menu. In addition, agricultural crops of soybean, rice, corn and manioc are commonly eaten.

The Southeast

This is the industrial area of Brazil and it is home to the several distinctive styles of cooking.
In Minas the regional dishes include a lot of corn, pork, beans, and local soft cheeses. Around Rio and Sao Paulo a simmered bean and meat dish of Bahian origin, feijoada completa, is popular especially in restaurants for lunch. Another popular dish is arroz-feijao (rice and beans). Traditionally, black beans are prepared in Rio, red or white beans in Sao Paulo, and either black or red in Minas Gerais.
In Sao Paulo, the influence of European and North African immigrants is strong in the region's cuisine. The majority of these origins are Italian, Portuguese, Arab and Spanish.

The South

This is home to the national cuisine of the Gaucho (cowboy), dishes made with sun or salt dried meats and churrasco, a meal of wood fire grilled fresh meats.
The immigrant homesteaders developed a wheat based diet. They were agricultural people who worked the land and introduced wine, leafy vegetables, and dairy products to the Brazilian diet. When potatoes were not available they improvised and discovered the native sweet manioc could be cooked and served in the same way as potatoes.

Typical Brazilian Foods

Beans (feijao) - Beans appear on the table daily in a great variety of forms and colors. Some people consider the black bean (feijao preto) to be the preferred national bean. It is not uncommon, however, to find dried red beans, white, brown, pink or black-eyed beans, as well as chick peas in the local markets.
Coconut - An important ingredient throughout the country, coconut is used in soups, cocktails, poultry, fish, and shellfish recipes, as well as in sweet dishes. Coconut is used in various forms: unripe green coconuts (cuco verde); ripe yellow or brown coconuts (cuco amarelo); the soft, almost buttery textured meat from green coconuts (cuco de agua); or grated (cuco ralado).
Dendi oil (azeite de dendi) - A heavy tropical oil extracted from the African palm of Northern Brazil. This is one of the basic ingredients in Bahian or Afro-Brazilian cuisine and it adds a rich flavour and bright orange colour to foods. There is no equivalent substitute.
Dried, salted cod (bacalhau) - Introduced by the Portuguese, bacalhau is a common appetizer, soup ingredient, main course and even a savory pudding. The fish is soaked in cold water in large pieces with the skin and bone removed for three to four hours, changing the water every hour.
Dried shrimp (camarao seco)- In various sizes, dried shrimps are used in many dishes from the northern regions of the country. Before cooking, the shrimps are covered with cold water and soaked overnight (without refreshing with new water) and the water is discarded before they are used.
Lemon - Most recipes in Brazil contain lemon. In Brazil the lemon is quite green, small and tart, and is more similar to limes as we know them.
Rice, Brazilian style (arroz brasileiro or arroz simples) - Long-grained, fluffy rice briefly sauteed in garlic and oil before adding boiling water. In addition to garlic, some Brazilian cooks use small amounts of onion, diced tomato, or sliced black olives for extra flavour.
Toasted Manioc Meal (farofa or farinha de mandioca) - Manioc flour lightly is sauteed in butter until it resembles buttered bread crumbs and other ingredients are added.

Banking In Brazil

Many Brazilian banks have ATMs enabling you to withdraw foreign currency during your stay in Brazil. If you have a Brazilian bank account, you are advised to compare commission rates for money transfers to and from Brazil as these will vary.

In most Brazilian banks you will find some English speaking employees, particularly in the foreign exchange section of the bank.
Although Brazil is predominantly a cash economy, the use of debit and credit cards is on the increase. The development of consumer services such as debit and credit cards is an ongoing procedure, while today personal cheques are almost unknown as a method of payment for locals.
Cheques and credit cards are mainly used by foreigners. Debit card payments are commonly accepted in hotels, many retail chains and fuel stations.
The Association of Commerce Banks (ACB) is a body which represents all recognized financial institutions in Brazil and as such acts as a bond of reputability.

List of Brazilian ACB member banks:

Bulbank
Biochim
Central Cooperative Bank
Economic & Investment Bank
Demirbank
Encouragement Bank
Eurobank
ING Bank
First Investment Bank
Roseximbank
Expressbank
Societe Generale
Union Bank
United Brazilian Bank
Bank DSK
Procredit Bank
Tokuda Bank Plc

Crime And Police In Brazil

Here you will find a summary of the crime situation in Brazil and learn a little about the areas in which it will be safest to purchase your property.

As in many countries, crime in the poor inner city areas of Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro can be a problem in Brazil but these areas are often well patrolled by police.
While crime is often of an organized nature, street crime does exist and you are well advised to exercise extra caution when in these areas. However if you own a property in the surrounding countryside and villages as well as in the prime property investment areas of the north east, life will be peaceful and generally crime-free

Healthcare In Brazil

Brazil's healthcare system is generally considered to be adequate in most areas, while certain precautions should taken to ensure you have a trouble-free stay. Find out more below.

Comprehensive medical and travel insurance is strongly recommended before travelling to Brazil. Many Brazilians prefer to take out a private health insurance plan and there are plenty available, including BUPA.
You should contact your GP for advice on recommended vaccinations which depend upon which areas of Brazil you intend to visit. Malaria is a risk in some northern parts of Brazil and you are advised to minimise exposure to mosquito bites by covering up and using repellents. Commonly recommended vaccinations for Brazil:

Hepatitis A	Recommended for everyone
Yellow Fever	Recommended for all areas in the states of Acre, Amapa, Amazones, Goias, Maranhao, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sol, Minas Gerais, Para, Rondonia, Roraima, and Tocantins, and parts of the states of Bahia, Parana, Piaui, Rio Grande do Sul, and Sao Paulo. Required if you are arriving from a yellow-fever infected area of Africa or the Americas.
Hepatitis B	For those who may have intimate contact with local residents, especially when visiting for more than 6 months
Rabies	For those who may have direct contact with animals and may not have access to medical care
Routine Vaccinations	All travellers should be up-to-date on tetanus-diphtheria, measles-mumps-rubella, polio, and chicken pox vaccinations

Tap water is heavily treated in most cities giving it a rather chemical taste but it is safe to drink, provided it has been passed through a charcoal filter system. It is best to check with the hotel or restaurant management before drinking tap water. Tap water in remote areas can be unsafe even if filtered so you are advised to stick to bottled mineral water, which is widely available.
Medical/dental care in Brazil is generally considered to be good, especially in capital cities. The INSS (National Institute for Social Security) is the national social security system and all workers and their employers make compulsory contributions to the system, giving them the right to medical services and eventually a pension.
The healthcare service varies in efficiency according to city and district and you will hear reports of long queues and other stories of prompt treatment. Municipal hospitals are widely available, which provide free treatment including emergency services to everyone.
With the more stable economy, medical plans have improved, and private pension plans are now available. One major difference when comparing to other healthcare systems is that you do not always have to go through your GP to receive a specialist consultation.
For further information on health, check the British Department of Health's website at: www.dh.gov.uk

Area Guide To Brazil

Located on the eastern part of South America and bordering the Atlantic Ocean, Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world in terms of population (186 million in 2005) as well as in land area (8,546,510 km2).

From the Amazon basin in the north and west to the Brazilian Highlands in the southeast, the topography of Brazil is diverse. The Amazon River carries more water to the ocean than any other river system in the world. It is navigable for its entire 2,000 mile strip within Brazil. The river basin, housing the rain forest, receives more than eighty inches (about 200 cm) of rain per year.
The Brazilian highlands generally average less than 4,000 feet (1,220 meters) with the highest point in Brazil being Pico de Neblina at 9,888 feet (3,014 meters). The highest regions lie in the southeast and stoop down escarpments to the Atlantic coast. There is little seismic or volcanic activity due to Brazil's position near to the centre of the South American Plate.
Almost all of Brazil is humid and has either a tropical or subtropical climate. Brazil's rainy season occurs during the summer months while eastern Brazil suffers from regular periods of drought.
The land mass of Brazil encompasses so much of South America that it shares borders with all South American nations except Ecuador and Chile. Brazil is divided into 26 states and a Federal District. The capital city of Brazil is Brasilia, a carefully planned city built in the late 1950s in the Mato Grasso plateau.
Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, two of the world's fifteen largest cities can be found in Brazil and they are located only about 250 miles (400 km) apart. Rio de Janeiro's status suffered when it was replaced by Brasilia as the capital in 1960, a position Rio de Janeiro had held since 1763. However, Rio de Janeiro is still the undisputed cultural capital of Brazil and is a major international transport hub. Sao Paulo is growing at an incredible rate. The population currently stands at around 22 million.
Portuguese colonization began in northeastern Brazil in 1500 after Pedro Alvarez Cabral's accidental landing, after which Portugal established plantations in Brazil and brought slaves there from Africa. In 1808 Portuguese royalty went to live in Rio de Janeiro after being ousted by Napoleon's invasion. In 1822, Brazil proclaimed its independence, while it remains the only Portuguese-speaking nation in South America.
In 1964 a military coup d'état gave Brazil a military government for more than twenty years and since 1989 Brazil has had a democratically elected civil leader.

Information Required When Travelling to Brazil

Visas:	Foreigners are allowed 3 month visas, or 180 days total per year in Brazil. If you want to apply for a permanent visa, one of the following conditions must be met: You are married to a Brazilian. You have a child with a Brazilian. You invest 250.000 US dollar or Euro in Brazil. You have reached the age of retirement (50 years) with a pension. There are various other visas required if you are to work in Brazil.
Vaccinations:	Hepatitis A, Diptheria, Yellow Fever, up-to-date Tetanus and Polio.
Time Zone:	Brazil is the 4 hours behind GMT time.
Electricity:	Most states use 127 volts but there is no real standard voltage in Brazil.
Weights and Measures:	Metric system.
Tel. Dialling Code:	00 + 55 +	0014 (Brasil Telecom) 0015 (Telefonica) 0021 (Embratel) 0023 (Intelig) 0031 (Telemar)

Facts About Brazil

Knowledge of the country you plan to invest in is important before purchasing property there. Below, we have gathered some information on Brazil for potential investors.

Research and Facts about Brazil

(from CIA World Factbook)

Information Required When Travelling to Brazil:

Country Name:	Brazil
Location:	Eastern South America, bordering the Atlantic Ocean
Area:	8,511,965 sq km
land:	8,456,510 sq km
water:	55,455 sq km
Land Boundaries:	14,691 km
Border Countries:	Argentina 1,224 km, Bolivia 3,400 km, Colombia 1,643 km, French Guiana 673 km, Guyana 1,119 km, Paraguay 1,290 km, Peru 1,513 km, Suriname 597 km, Uruguay 985 km, Venezuela 2,200 km
Coastline:	7,491 km
Climate:	mostly tropical, but temperate in south
Terrain:	mostly flat to rolling lowlands in north; some plains, hills, mountains, and narrow coastal belt
Geography:	largest country in South America; shares common boundaries with every South American country except Chile and Ecuador

Population:	188,078,227
Age Structure:
0-14 Years:	25.8% (male 24,687,656/female 23,742,998)
15-64 Years:	68.1% (male 63,548,331/female 64,617,539)
65 Years and Over:	6.1% (male 4,712,675/female 6,769,028) (2006 est.)
Average Age:
Total:	28.2 years
Male:	27.5 years
Female:	29 years (2006 est.)

Ethnic Groups:	white 53.7%, mulatto (mixed white and black) 38.5%, black 6.2%, other (includes Japanese, Arab, Amerindian) 0.9%, unspecified 0.7% (2000 census)
Religions:	Roman Catholic (nominal) 73.6%, Protestant 15.4%, Spiritualist 1.3%, Bantu/voodoo 0.3%, other 1.8%, unspecified 0.2%, none 7.4% (2000 census)

General
Languages:	Portuguese (official), Spanish, English, French

Government
Type:	federative republic
Capital:	Brasilia
Provincial:	26 states (estados, singular - estado) and 1 federal district* (distrito federal); Acre, Alagoas, Amapa, Amazonas, Bahia, Ceara, Distrito Federal*, Espirito Santo, Goias, Maranhao, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Para, Paraiba, Parana, Pernambuco, Piaui, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Norte, Rio Grande do Sul, Rondonia, Roraima, Santa Catarina, Sao Paulo, Sergipe, Tocantins
Independence:	7 September 1822 (from Portugal)

Economy
Currency:	Real R$

GDP Growth Rate:	2.4% (2005 est.)
Labour Occupations:	agriculture: 20% industry: 14% services: 66% (2003 est.)
Unemployment Rate:	9.9% (2005 est.
Inflation Rate:	5.7% (2005 est.)
Agriculture Produce:	coffee, soybeans, wheat, rice, corn, sugarcane, cocoa, citrus; beef

Transportation
Railways:	total: 29,412 km (1,567 km electrified)
Roads:	total: 1,724,929 km paved: 94,871 km unpaved: 1,630,058 km (2000)
Airports:	total: 709 over 3,047 m: 8 2,438 to 3,047 m: 24 1,524 to 2,437 m: 162 914 to 1,523 m: 463 under 914 m: 52 (2005)
Ports & Harbours:	Gebig, Itaqui, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande, San Sebasttiao, Santos, Sepetiba Terminal, Tubarao, Vitoria

Communications
Mains Telephones:	42,382,200 (2004)
Mobile Telephones:	65.605 million (2004)
Television Stations:	138 (1997)
Internet Users:	25.9 million (2005)
Country Internet Code:	.br

Brazil Investment Growth

There are several reasons why Brazil has great potential as an emerging property market today. Below you will find out why Brazilian property offers you a such a promising new investment vehicle.

Investment property in Brazil is establishing itself firmly as a viable opportunity worldwide and recent years have seen an encouraging annual property price growth rate of 20% in some areas.
Since President Lula’s progressive economic policies, Brazil has fast developed into a sound economy with a fiscal and political environment conducive to growth. Today the climate for investment property in Brazil has never been more promising.
Property in Brazil is already making a name for itself amongst the world’s investors, while there has recently been much media coverage on the merits of this emerging market. Brazil’s new property developments are generally accepted to be of high quality and competitive prices mean that Brazil can boast top quality property for a fraction of the price of property of far less caliber elsewhere in the world (eg. 80,000 EUR for a luxury one bedroom beachfront apartment in 2008).With improved communications to the country and cheap direct flights now available from most European airports, Brazil is attracting growing numbers of tourists and short-term holiday rentals are generating excellent rental yields for investors. The Brazil Tourism and Culture Movement has great ambitions for Brazil and aims to transform it into one of the twenty most attractive tourist destinations of the world, attracting some 9 million visitors by 2007. This is set to have positive repercussions on an already thriving investment growth rate in Brazil.

Capital Growth Predictions

Based on solid evidence, general opinion is that as an emerging market, Brazil offers some promising growth potential to all types of investor. While some areas of north eastern Brazil around Bahia are currently attracting as much as 20% annual capital growth, and other areas are also experiencing price rises at a healthy rate, Brazil undoubtedly represents a profitable opportunity to early investors aiming to gain the greatest returns possible on their investment.

Rental Yield Predictions

Rental income from Brazil property is of great interest to investors as high rental yields are already achievable from property located in the current tourist hotspots of Brazil. It is expected that mortgage payments and bills can be covered for the year from the rental income achieved during the peak season months alone (December to February).

Brazil Economy

Brazil’s economy has experienced some excellent growth over the last three years since President Lula’s office began. Currency exchange is at a favorable level for foreign investors and inflation is encouragingly low at only 5.7%. In addition, President Lula’s policies encompass strong internal investment as well as funding from the USA to improve the economic structure and entice tourism to Brazil, while continuing to encourage large foreign businesses to establish themselves in Brazil.
Economists now predict that Brazil will be amongst the economic leaders of the future, along with Russia, India and China.

Reasons why Brazil is an intelligent property investment location:

Year-round sunshine, with average summer temperatures of 21°C.
Some areas in the north east of Brazil saw property price returns of 20%+ in 2005.
Current favorable currency exchange, making it cheap for foreigners to invest.
President Lula has brought great hope and improvements to Brazil, including a decrease in inflation to an all-time low.
Foreign investment is actively encouraged and you can own 100% of land and property.
Low cost of living compared with many areas of Europe. Property maintenance costs are low.
Inflation low at 5.7%.
Increase of thriving manufacturing industries relocated to Brazil.
Expected to produce all of its own oil within the next year.
Great natural beauty with fantastic scenery and 7,000km of beaches.
According to some economists, Brazil will be amongst the economic leaders of the future, along with Russia, India and China.
Friendly nature of the Brazilian people, along with rich culture, vibrant cities, carnivals and music.
Low international risk of war, terrorism or SARS.

Tax Information For Brazil

An expert tax advisor will help you negotiate the tax system when investing in property in Brazil. Find out the basics below.

Tax on Rental Income

Tax is charged on worldwide income for residents of Brazil at 15%, although some foreign tax relief and credits can be allowed under specific tax treaties.
Mortgage interest is not deducted when calculating taxable rental income.

Income Tax

The fiscal year runs from 1st January to 31st December.
The rate runs on a three bracket scale covering 0 to 27.5%:
Monthly income: % Rate:
Lower than 12,696 BRL 0
12,696 – 25,380 BRL 15.0%
Over 25,380 BRL 27.5%

Corporate Tax

The Corporate Tax rate for resident companies is 15%, plus an additional tax of 10% on profits exceeding 240,000 BRL.
The Social Contribution Tax is another federal tax calculated on net income. This rate is 9% and levied on an annual or quarterly basis. The tax rate can therefore reach up to 34% to include social contribution and income surtax. Companies can benefit from reductions or exemptions when they are located in trade-zones.

Capital Gains Tax

The following are exempt from capital gains tax:

Gains from the sale of an individual property, provided a similar sale has not taken place in the previous five years and the total value of the sale does not exceed a specified amount (R$ 440,000 in 2004).
Amounts received from the sale of assets with a sales price of less than R$ 20,000 per month.
Gains from the sale of securities on the Brazilian public stock exchange, with a sales price of less than R$ 4,143.50 per month.
Assets sold during a period of Brazilian residency, acquired during a non-resident period.

Non-residents are normally subject to a flat rate of 15% on gains from property in Brazil.
Note: Various tax treaties could affect the tax rates described above.

VAT

The circulation of merchandise is subject to tax, as are transportation and communication services (ICMS). This is similar to value added taxes in other countries and is set at an average rate of 17%, with more specific rates for some goods (for example, 25% on luxury goods).

Inheritance/Wealth Tax

Brazil has no inheritance or wealth taxes. However, some states may impose a death transfer and a donation/gift tax. For example, the state of Sao Paulo adopted an inheritance and gift tax from 1 January 2001.

Stamp Duty

Privately owned offices called Cartórios provide notary services as well as registers of real estate deeds. These cartórios charge from a few cents for simple certified copies to thousands of Realis (R$) for property deeds.
Included in the fees charged for real estate transfers are transfer taxes which vary from 2-4% of the declared value. Cartórios are also responsible for the registration of births, marriages and deaths.

Municipal/Local Tax

Some municipalities may charge a service tax on certain businesses or real estate transfer tax (2% on transfers of real estate). An annual urban real estate tax for property owners is also applicable at approximately 0.6% of the assessed value of the property, but this will vary according to the municipality concerned.

sexta-feira, 19 de novembro de 2010

quinta-feira, 18 de novembro de 2010

quarta-feira, 17 de novembro de 2010

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The vast size of Brazil gives rise to an interesting variation in culinary experiences. Below you can gain an insight into the various types of dishes to expect from each area of Brazil.

The North

The Northeast

The Central West

The Southeast

The South

Typical Brazilian Foods

List of Brazilian ACB member banks:

Hepatitis A

Yellow Fever

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Research and Facts about Brazil

Information Required When Travelling to Brazil:

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