Destinations-Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is the biggest city in South America and the economical heart of Brazil . With a population that has grown to over 18 million (metropolitan area), Sao Paulo is a city of immigrants: millions of Italians arrived here in the 19th century, followed by a massive Japanese immigration wave. Smaller groups of, among others Lebanese and Germans followed. In the second half of the 20th century mass immigration from rural Brazil , mainly from the North East, escaping the drought and poverty of the sertao, changed the demographic landscape of Sao Paulo drastically. This diversity and industrial development has produced Brazil 's largest, most cultured and best educated middle class.
Sao Paulo is a dynamic city, with skyscrapers spreading all over the enormous metropolitan area, never ending nightlife and restaurants for all tastes.

• ACCESS ROUTES
  Sao Paulo hosts the busiest international airport of the country, most intercontinental flights depart and arrive at Guarulhus, the international airport north of the city. There is also an inner-city airport, Congonhas, with direct flights to most Brazilian destinations and short transfers to hotels. From the main bus station, Rodoviaria Tiete, busses leave to practically all over Brazil and also to some neighboring countries. To Rio (approximately 6 hours; operated by 3 different companies) busses leave at least every hour. Bus companies are well organized and offer various classes; the luxury class is a good alternative for short (expensive) flights. The main business district, the historical center and bus station are connected through a modern, safe and reliable metro system. The only minor detail is that there aren't many lines.
• ACCOMMODATION
  There is an unlimited amount of hotels in Sao Paulo, all imaginable accommodation is available. They fill up during the week, with congresses and business people; the hotel industry is practically 100% focused on business travelers. The best areas for leisure accommodation are the Jardins (around the Avenida Paulista, the economic heart of the city) and the old center.
• WHEN TO GO
  Whole year. Expect some heavy rain in the summer months (Dec-Mar). Being situated on a highland plateau (approximately 800m), temperatures in Sao Paulo are usually moderate, in June and July temperatures can drop below 15C.