Forum
Monthly Newsletter
Save the date
Upcoming AmSoc events
April 9th - Volunteer Day
April 16th - Basketball Tournament
April 17th - Easter Party for children
May 5th - 2011 Annual General Meeting
May 14th - AMSOC Team Tennis Tournament
July 2nd - 4th of July celebration
The Sports Issue
How long ‘til 2014?
Page 4: Examining the challenge
to host both the World Cup and
Olympic Games within a few
short years of each other.
Outdoor adventures
Page 8: Looking for fun
destinations to do some adventure
activities close to São Paulo?
Look no further!
Running in São Paulo
Page 10: Where can you do it?
How can you do it? And what
about those Gucci sunglasses?
Our Mission
The American Society of São Paulo
promotes friendship by organizing
social, cultural and athletic events for
its diverse membership; encourages
integration with the Brazilian society;
and supports the American traditions
of education, philanthropy and
volunteerism.
April 2011
www.amsoc.com.br
Register now for the 2011 AGM
On Thursday, May 5th, U.S. Consul the AGM is one of the best ways to keep
General Tomas Kelly and his wife Elsa in touch with and learn about what the
will host the American Society Annual American Society is doing. It’s also a
G e n e r a l great way to
M e e t i n g make contact
(AGM) at with people
their Jardins who want
residence in to improve
São Paulo.
T h e
our local
community.
reception This year’s
will start at
8 p.m. with
meeting is also
an excellent
cocktails and chance to
refreshments. meet the
After the new Consul
meeting a social hour will The 2010 board at the AGM General and his wife – if
follow. The AGM allows you have not already had
members to meet each other, and to the opportunity to do so – who are looking
talk to those on the board as well.. It is forward to hosting their first AGM.
a wonderful opportunity to share your In order to participate in the AGM,
ideas with those who are responsible you must be an AmSoc member. If you
for running the Society and planning its wish to participate, it is essential that you
events. RSVP by April 26th, as spaces are limited
The important task of board elections and the deadline will be strictly enforced.
is also a part of every AGM. Members of To reserve your space please contact
the Board of Governors serve two year amsoc@amsoc.com.br or (11) 5182-
terms and at each meeting half of these 2074. Also, be sure to bring your passport
terms expire and must be filled. or RNE to the meeting, as identification
For long-timers and recent arrivals, will be checked at the door.
Golf in São Paulo
By John Kennedy, Director of AMSOC Athletics and Joe Sherman, AmSoc president
Golf in Brazil is still an elitist sport, to the public on a walk-on basis. Being
even though they say it is the fastest privately-held, these golf clubs charge
growing sport in the country. There are high greens fees, however, the week day
a little over 100 golf courses in Brazil, greens fees are usually 50% less than the
with nearly all of them privately-held. weekends (and holiday fees), with the
And there are plans to build more courses weekend morning rates priced about 30%
for the foreseeable future. São Paulo state higher than in the afternoon rates. Golf
has by far the most courses compared to carts are a real rarity, for they usually are
the rest of the states in the country. either owned or made available to the
Even though there are no public or club members. Only a few courses have
municipal golf courses in São Paulo carts and bags to rent to non-members, so
State, most private golf clubs are open (continued on page 7)

The President’s Corner
Life is full of
surprises and
I welcome the
opportunity
to carry out
Ti m S c o t t ’s
presidential
term for the
By Joe Sherman, AmSoc president
next few months.
Tim was a great volunteer in our
organization and the Board recognized
his contributions by presenting him
with a commemorative pewter plate
at his farewell dinner. Again, the
American Society Board is made up
of volunteers and we are off to a great
start in 2011 !
Little League this semester has
about 100 children playing soccer,
basketball, flag football and tennis.
This is a great opportunity for those
with young children to volunteer.
Members of our social committee are
busy organizing events for you: Irene
Garcias organized the St. Patrick’s
celebration last month. Eileen Tasso
is coordinating the volunteer day at
the Consulate on April 9, a fantastic
partnership between the American
Society and the Consulate. Ruth
Hollard is leading the effort to organize
the children’s Easter party on April
17. Aline Ricardo is organizing our
traditional Annual General Meeting on
May 5. The 4 the of July celebration
will be on Saturday July 2, and
Richard Wegman has already started
preparations for family fun day for
Forum is published monthly, with
the exception of January and July, by
About Forum
The American Society of São Paulo
Rua da Paz, 1431 04713-001 São Paulo, SP
Tel: (11) 5182-2074 Fax: (11) 5182-9155
forum@amsoc.com.br
2 Forum
everyone
These are great events which I am sure
you will enjoy.
Our corporate sponsor campaign
is also off to a good start this year,
Serasa/Experian has just contributed
R$10.000. Earlier in the year we
received contributions from Cabot
(R$10.000); Opice Bloom (R$2000);
and Cisa Trading (R$5.000); so we
have a total of R$27.000. Thank you
to these American Society supporters.
The budget is R$130.000 so we have a
long way to go. Richard Wegman and
his committee have just concluded the
planning stages and are about to launch
this year’s campaign. Corporate
sponsorship is a key component for
our philanthropic efforts, as well as
our office budget.
I would like to remind everyone that
you do not have to be an American
citizen to join the American Society.
As our mission statement states, “…
promotes friendship by organizing
social, cultural, and athletic events for
its diverse membership”. Invite your
friends to join the American Society as
the feedback we receive is everyone
enjoys our diverse activities.
We have many new young Board
members and in the next few months
we will be working to have more
happy hours; strengthen partnerships
with other groups; and improve our
marketing communication on what
we do.
Abraços, Joe
Lynn Cordeiro, editor and layout
Channtal Fleischfresser,
staff writer
Forum is printed by EGB.
(http://www.egb.com.br)
Views expressed in Forum do
not necessarily reflect those of
the American Society board of
governors, members, or staff.
Forum reserves the right to edit
content for brevity and/or clarity.
New member
profile
N a m e :
Kimberly
and David
Martin
Origin, time
here: We
are both
from the suburbs of Detroit Michigan,
but began our nomadic life around the
United States in 1998. As for how long
we’ve been here, let’s just say our sea
shipment hasn’t been delivered yet!
Why São Paulo: David accepted the position
of South American Controller with his
company, Visteon, which enabled us to
make São Paulo his home base. Never
having lived in an urban setting, we
were excited to experience life in a big
city.
Best things so far: We can’t get enough of
the expansive views from our apartment
and the ever changing São Paulo sky,
spending weekends in Vila Madalena
drinking ice cold beer, and being able
to drive to the world’s most beautiful
beaches for the day.
Early frustrations: Unbelievably, the only
frustration that sticks in my mind was
the denial of our American issued credit
cards in the first days and the inability
to make major purchases without a
CPF. Once we could spend money
freely, life seemed fairly normal.
Have ‘saudade’ for anything back home:
TARGET, where we could wardrobe
the family, decorate the house, grocery
shop, and gorge ourselves on popcorn
and frozen Coke. For my kids, we miss
the back yard and the ease of playing
outside everyday. Eventually, I think
we’ll miss the change of seasons found
in the Northern United States. How
many sunny, warm days, can a person
take before it gets boring?
Progress with Portuguese: I’d say I’m
misunderstood 50% of the time, have
to “try again” 50% of the time, and
understand about 50% of what’s being
said (if it’s slowed down to half speed).
Favorite place to hang out: We do most of our
hanging out at Jacare in Vila Madalena.
We go for lunch and realize we’ve been
people watching for four hours!
April
 The American Society
of São Paulo

Welcome to our new members

Please welcome the following New Members who joined us in February 2011. We are very grateful for their support, and
that of all our members! See you at our Easter Party if not sooner!!! WELCOME TO THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF
SÃO PAULO! Your Membership Committee

NAME MEMBERSHIP TYPE CITIZENSHIIP COMPANY

Andrea & Joshua M. WOODRUFF Family Patron American Morgan Stanley

Angela & Jorge RAMIREZ Family American

Beatriz & Ronaldo ZNIDARSIS Family Brazilian General Motors

Bernard & Eliane WOLPE Family Patron American Volpe Real Estate Advisors, Inc.

Brian ZIVICKY & Leslie REED Family American JP Morgan

Carlos & Claudia S. MARIACA Family Patron American\ Brazilian Mariaca

Fernando Luiz & Cristiana C. S. SILVA Family Brazilian Brink’s

George B. O’HANAN & Karen Leslie SOUTHWICK Family American IBM

Gladez MENDEZ & Luis LOPEZ Family American

Jennifer & Robert B. PETERSON Family American Graded School

Jeremy T. & Lucila F. CHANCEY Family American JTC Brasil

Kevin B. & Vanessa Marrie FLURRY Family American Paca School

Kimberly & David MARTIN Family American Visteon Sistemas Automotivos

Luis A. CUETOS & Anderina GALLEGOS Family Venezuelan Nalco Co.

Luke BARBARA Single American Grupo TC Global

Manuel COLMENARES & Yulitza PEREZ Family Venezuelan Sodexo

Mark & Cindy DEIHL Family American

Monica BARRAL & Marco SILVA Family Brazilian

Paul K. & Michelle B. DAVIS Family American Burger King Corporation

Todd & Sophia WOLK Family Patron American Open Link Financial

Ulrika & Jacob STJERNFALT Family Swedish E.F. Viagens e Turismo Ltda

Save the date for the Memorial Service

This year we will honor those who gave all at the 2nd annual Memorial Service to be held at Fellowship Community
Church on Sunday morning, 29 May at 10:30 am.

2011 Forum 3
 How long ‘til 2014?
By Channtal Fleischfresser, staff writer
As Brazil asserts itself as a rising
power on the world stage, perhaps its
greatest test lies in its ability to prepare
to host the world’s two largest sporting
events: the FIFA World Cup in 2014,
and the Olympics in 2016. In addition
to the construction of stadiums and
athletic facilities, these events will
require a massive mobilization of
resources to create the infrastructure
necessary to host the millions of tourists
that will pour into the country.
Brazilians’ attitude about their
country has always bordered on self-
deprecating, as in the oft-repeated
maxim: “Brazil is the country of the
future, and it always will be.”
These days, the country can change
that perception. Its moment is here:
Brazil has the ability not only to upgrade
its infrastructure for its citizens, but
also to show the world that it is up to
the task of hosting not one but two
large-scale sporting events.
In preparation for the World Cup, the
country expects an investment of R$33
billion to be used to build stadiums and
improve infrastructure to accommodate
the influx of visitors. Renovation and
construction of arenas are expected to
cost about USD$1.1 billion, slightly
more than what it cost South Africa to
build five new stadiums for the 2010
FIFA World Cup.
So far, preparations are unfortunately
falling short. Construction of stadiums
and transportation infrastructure,
specifically airports, is woefully behind
schedule. In February, Brazilian soccer
4 Forum
legend Pelé sharply criticized the event
organizers for their lack of preparation
for the World Cup, saying that the
country would suffer widespread
embarrassment if they did not complete
preparations in time.
In an effort to encourage tourism
throughout the country, the World
Cup organizing committee set itself
the ambitious goal of readying 12 host
cities. This means not only ensuring that
the cities’ stadiums can accommodate
the games, but also upgrading local
infrastructure, including air travel,
urban transportation, hotels, restaurants,
and producing a workforce that can
effectively communicate with visitors
in English.
With the exception of a few cities
including Curitiba, whose preparations
are well under way, several of the 11
other host cities are lagging behind.
Some blame the fact that 2010 was an
election year, so investment decisions
were put off for political reasons. Others
blame corruption for the inefficiencies,
as well as an oppressive bureaucratic
system that further complicates the
planning process.
Whatever the reasons, the FIFA
Championship begins in 3 years and
2 months. The Confederations Cup,
held in Brazil a year before the World
Cup and seen as a test of the country’s
preparedness, will begin in little more
than two years. On and off the field,
the 12 cities have their work cut out for
them.
STADIUMS
With three years to go before the first
World Cup game, none of the arenas
are ready to host. Stadiums typically
need four years’ preparation: 2 years of
planning and 2 years for construction.
Five cities have yet to break ground.
Natal will shortly submit a second
proposal for its arena, after the first one
found no interested parties. São Paulo
is currently the farthest behind in its
preparations. Its proposal for renovating
Morumbi Stadium was rejected by
FIFA in 2010. The organizing body
eventually settled on the construction
of a new stadium outside of São Paulo
in Itaquera.
Despite the situation, São Paulo
hopes to host the World Cup opening
game. FIFA President Joseph Blatter
maintains that the location of the
opener has not yet been decided. In
a recent statement, Blatter criticized
the rate of progress in both Rio and
São Paulo, both natural choices to
host the championship’s opener. He
questioned whether the cities would
even be prepared in time to host the
Confederations Cup in 2013.
São Paulo’s new arena, known as
“Itaquerão,” would eventually be used
for the Corinthians soccer club. São
Paulo’s Mayor Gilberto Kassab and
Governor Geraldo Alckmin announced
in February that construction on the
stadium was set to begin in April 2011.
The Brazilian National Development
Bank (BNDES) has agreed to invest
April

R$400 million in the project, while
São Paulo state would commit to
overhauling the region’s urban
transportation, including the subway
line. But Corinthians’ director of
marketing warned that the stadium’s
construction costs could easily surpass
its proposed budget of R$600 million
by as much as 40%.
Still, among the dire predictions
are signs of progress. Curitiba’s
construction is well underway, and in
a recent visit, Orlando Silva, Sports
Minister, suggested that if all goes as
planned, the city could be well on its
way to hosting the 2013 Confederations
Cup.
INFRASTRUCTURE
Preparing for the World Cup
involves much more than the stadiums
themselves. Brazil’s host cities will
have to rehaul their airports, public
transportation, highways, hotels,
and energy capacity in order to
accommodate the expected influx of
tourists.
Several of the host cities’ airports
are in urgent need of expansion
and renovation. Both São Paulo’s
Guarulhos and Rio’s Galeão airports
need to be able to accommodate 20
million more passengers each per year.
Unfortunately, airport projects require
the same 4 year planning period as
stadiums.
While the Chinese took 5 years
to build an airport that would
accommodate 45 million passengers
each year for the 2008 Olympics, at
this point many Brazilian airports will
likely have to rely on extensions rather
than full-scale renovations in order to
Fellowship Community Church
The Welcome Place since 1921
Phone (11) 3253-7609
Sunday’s
Conveniently located on Rua Carlos Sampaio, 107 – Bela Vista
Just a block and a half from the Brigadeiro Metro station on the Avenida Paulista
2011
be ready for the influx of tourists.
The good news is that the World
Cup promises to increase investment
in Infraero, Brazil’s state-run Airport
Infrastructure Company. Competition
between businesses marketing
their services to Brazil’s airports in
anticipation of the World Cup increased
the company’s profit margin. The state-
run organization’s net profit in 2010
was more than 40% larger than what it
brought in the previous year.
According to the president’s office,
Infraero is expected to invest about R$5
billion in airport construction related
to the World Cup and the Olympics.
President Dilma Rousseff has also
pledged to allow private investment in
the country’s airports in preparation for
the events.
OLYMPICS
In early March, Dilma asked former
Central Bank President Henrique
Meirelles to oversee the Public
Olympic Authority (APO) for the 2016
Olympics. At the time of going to
press his appointment must still first be
approved by the Senate. In accepting
the position, Meirelles spoke of the
event’s importance to the country and
to Rio de Janeiro. “The Olympics
are the affirmation of a country’s
evolution,” he said, “not just from an
economic, financial, and organizational
standpoint, but in the country’s ability
to organize a project of this magnitude,
adhering to the International Olympic
Committee’s rigorous specifications.”
Orlando Silva, Brazil’s Sports
Minister, said recently that the creation
of the Public Olympic Authority
(APO) is a signal to the international
www.fellowship.com.br
09:00 am - Walking in Faith Classes (English and Portuguese)
10:30 am – Worship Service (English only)
06:00 pm – Culto em português
The American Society
of São Paulo
community of Brazil’s commitment to
preparations for the 2016 Olympics.
While most of the games will be
held in Rio, the soccer competition
will also take place in four other cities:
Belo Horizonte, Salvador, São Paulo
and Brasília. Much of the infrastructure
needs in these cities will already be in
place, as they will also have been host-
cities for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
In addition to significant investment
in stadiums and infrastructure, a by-
product of Brazil’s position as host of
the World Cup and the Olympics is the
virtuous cycle that is likely to propel
the country’s economy over the next
several years. A recent projection by the
Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES)
at the end of February suggests that
R$825 billion in annual resources will
propel the economy until 2014.
In particular, this virtual economic
cycle promises to be a boon to small
businesses, as cities prepare to welcome
thousands of tourists. Between stadium
construction, hotels, restaurants, and
other services, a study by Sebrae (a
private organization that supports
entrepreneurship) shows that nearly
8,000 small businesses are expected
to benefit from the World Cup –
particularly in relevant sectors, such as:
construction, information technology,
tourism, production, agro-business,
and clothing, among others.
President Dilma Rousseff has
expressed confidence that Brazil
will host a successful World Cup,
emphasizing that the event’s
preparations will help the country’s
overall development, through income
generation, jobs, and infrastructure
investments. She estimates the World
Cup will create 330 thousand new jobs
and 400 thousand temporary jobs.
Despite all the difficulties in
preparing for these events, a successful
World Cup and Olympics would be
a huge accomplishment for Brazil,
both economically and in terms of
its international reputation. Whether
the country can overcome the
delays, allegations of corruption, and
bureaucratic hurdles, and ensure that
the country is well prepared for the
events, remains to be seen.
Forum 5
 Sporty Toddlers
By Kristin Barbieri
While sports activities for older
kids are available through schools
and activities with the American
Society (soccer, baseball), parents of
smaller children (under age 5 or 6)
may be harder pressed to find places
to help burn off the toddler’s extra
energies. As the mother of 4-year old
twin boys, I am always on the lookout
for new activities for them so let me
share what I have found.
Generalized sports: check into
your local club to see if ex-patriate
(or long-term!) memberships are
available. At our club, they offer
“Escola de Esportes” which meets
twice a week for two and a half
hours, and the kids do gymnastics,
“football” (very basic), tag and other
activities. It is available to kids age
3 and above. The only other sports
offered to small children are ballet
and swimming. Tennis and organized
football start only at age 6.
Capoeira: I checked into a
number of the martial arts activities
but decided on capoeira to start.
It’s quintessentially Brazilian, and
includes physical challenges, music
and dance, while encouraging
discipline like all of the martial
arts. Not to mention, it’s absolutely
beautiful. Classes begin at age 3 ½,
and are available in many specialized
academies and sometimes through
schools (Graded for one).
For little kids, I also was
recommended judo, but I did not
investigate that one. Ask around for
a good academy in your area; if you
are in Pinheiros I can recommend
Academia Uru Brasil; Mestre Bruno
also teaches at Graded School.
Swimming: With so many bodies
of water in and around São Paulo,
it seems almost irresponsible to not
get your toddlers in swim class.
Baby classes are available at most
swim clubs—starting with parent/
baby involvement and moving on to
where my kids are now (leaping like
lunatics from the side of the pool) and
6 Forum
through early competitions. If you are
in the Pinheiros area I recommend
Dolphins Academia.
Tennis: I for one grew up on a
tennis court. More as a target than
as a player, but even as a baby I was
around my parents on the court, first
in a playpen then as ball girl. The
culture here is different—at my club
at least, kids are not allowed on the
court at all until they are six. Over
the past weekend I learned of Le Petit
Tennis which is available to 3-5 year
olds—a method that uses fun and
games as part of the classes. Check
out www.lepetitsports.com.br if you
are interested.
Football: If your club does not
offer football to the little ones, and
you have a kid with a kick like
Ronaldinho, you may want to look
at the professional football clubs.
The São Paulo football club, for one,
offers something called “Baby Foot”
for kids age 3-5, and is offered on
Saturdays in Butantã.
Ballet: Yes, it is a sport, folks! As
mentioned above, many clubs offer
classes and there are a number of
ballet and jazz academies that offer
classes for boys and girls starting
at the age of 3. Before you dismiss
the level of sports activity, join a test
class yourself. Ouchie, ouchie.
Running: There are a number of
kids running races that are open to kids
2+. Last year, my kids participated in
the Pao de Acucar kids race—at age
3, the distance was 50 meters. A good
giggle for the parents too as kids go
running in all directions. Next one is
May 14 (http://www.pakids.com.br/),
but before that , you can catch my
dynamic duo in the 100 meter Adidas
Kids Race on March 19. http://www.
diamundokids.com.br/2011/
These are the main sports that I
have discovered in and around my
area of São Paulo. If you know of
other good spots for toddlers to learn
teamwork, discipline and to work off
some energy, please do share!
April
 The American Society
of São Paulo

Golf in São Paulo

(continued from front page) it’s best to call
ahead of time if needing.
Caddies are usually required to
accompany the golfer. Unfortunately,
a good many of them are youngsters
that do not help their golfer to properly
line-up puts, nor give club selections
on shots, or locate errant drives off the
fairway. Lastly, the clubs all have a
decent restaurant and changing rooms
with showers and sometimes saunas
available.
Below are estimated average fees in
the region:

Estimated Greens Fees: Weekends & Holidays Estimated Rentals Fees

weekday morning afternoon caddies carts bags

Top golf courses R$ 250 R$ 500 R$ 300 R$ 75 R$130-100 R$ 60
Good quality courses R$ 150 R$ 270 R$ 180 R$ 55 R$100-80 R$ 45
9-12 hole courses R$ 50 R$ 175 R$ 100 R$ 35 n.a. n.a.

Golf clubs within and around the
city limits of São Paulo city are few
and the most expensive. However,
clubs in small towns and cities on the
outskirts of São Paulo city are growing
in numbers and competing for golfers.
Some of these clubs offer monthly dues
without the requirement of buying a
share. One popular one is Terras de
São Jose in Itu, about 100 kilometers
from São Paulo. You can also negotiate
a low weekend rate at a small hotel in
the town of Itu to play more regularly
there. Another option is the Paradise
course in Mogi da Cruzes, and it has
a hotel at the course managed by the
Blue Tree group. Lago Azul just past
Sorocaba is a nice course but has only
12 holes but the final 6 should be ready
by the end of this year. A relatively new
course is Vista Verde just off kilometer
50 of the Castelo Branco highway. This
is a challenging course, very hilly, and
lots of rough. You will also most likely
need to rent a cart. If you are used to
fairly flat courses with little trouble, I
recommend you try Fazenda da Grama.
Below is a list of golf courses within
about 1 hour from Faria Lima that we
recommend playing.

Golf Club Location Comments

São Paulo SP city exclusive, very expensive, flat & well maintained
São Fernando SP city out-skirts exclusive, very expensive, flat & well maintained
Clube de Campo SP city out-skirts exclusive, very expensive, hilly & well maintained
Guarapiranga SP city out-skirts challenging layout, flat, well maintained
Aruja SP city out-skirts open, not very challenging, & mostly Koreans
São Francisco SP city 9 holes, wide open, easy & cheap on weekdays

Quinta de Baronesa about 1 hr from SP city exclusive, links layout & very well maintained
Lago Azul about 1 hr from SP city 12 holes, flat & open, not too challenging
Terras de São Jose about 1 hr from SP city old fashion course layout, get a good workout
Fazenda da Grama about 1 hr from SP city wide open, modern greens, not too challenging
Vista Verde about 1 hr from SP city very hilly, narrow fairways, lots of rough
Paradise about 1 hr from SP city new 8 years ago and interesting

To join a country club is prohibitively
expensive and a relatively illiquid
investment. However, if you want to
consider joining one we suggest you
consider the following: São Fernando
(Cotia); Guarapiranga (Parelheiros);
São Paulo (St. Amaro); and Clube de
Campo (Interlagos). The first three are
golf clubs whereas Clube de Campo
offers other sports such as sailing,
horseback riding, tennis, among others.
Guarapiranga is a bit more flexible and
has a six month temporary membership
and the dues are twice what a member
pays. The temporary membership is
renewable several times if you behave
yourself. The cost to join these clubs
starts at R$ 45.000, and green fees at
R$ 450 on weekends.
In the past AMSOC has organized
several golf outings per year. If you
are interested in playing please contact
John Kennedy at john@kennedy-
partners.com If we can get a good
group together we will organize a golf
outing, probably on a Friday or Saturday
afternoon. And this year AMSOC will
be organizing the 6th Challenge Golf
Cup, a traditional tournament between
the Americans and the Scots of the
St. Andrews Society in October or
November.

2010
2011 Forum 7
 Venturing out of São Paulo and into Nature
By Maark Abrams, AmSoc board member
It is now midnight and I’m hunched
over my Blackberry jotting down notes
on the adventures taken by the Graded
Boy Scouts. Although we´ve had a
number of near-to-home campouts like
this one (we´ve taken over Joe Sherman´s
expansive backyard practically on the
bank of the Guarapiranga Reservoir),
most of the time we´ve been guided to
exciting adventure sites by Outward
Bound do Brasil, the largest outdoor
education program in the world. Our
band of brave souls have gone white
water rafting in Jequitiba (www.
jequitiba.com.br), rappelling and
canoeing in Nazaré Paulista (www.
pousadafazendinha.com.br), rock
climbing in Bragança Paulista, and
had extensive backpacking trips in the
Serra de Mantiqueira mountain range
and in the Horto Floestral in Campos
do Jordao. As I listen to the chatting,
laughter and even singing from the
nearby tents that house the 16 scouts
and 5 dads on this trip, I´m convinced
that whether it is through the scouts,
a guided eco-tourism trip, or on your
own, venturing out into the wild is great
for everyone. Here are a few ideas that
are within a few hours of São Paulo:
White Water Rafting at Jequitiba
Only 90 kilometers from São Paulo,
just past Embú das Artes, the Sítio
8 Forum
in Jequitiba offers a number of Eco-
tourism opportunities for the whole
family (some activities have minimum
age requirements of 7, others 12). It
is possible to drive out on a Saturday
or Sunday and ride the rapids, slide
along on the zip lines traversing the
river, do the arborismo course, play
sports, mountain bike and have lunch.
There are places to camp and inns for
those who wish to spend the weekend.
The 5.2 kilometer guided trip down the
river over at least 3 waterfalls (Class I
to IV) takes a total of 4 hours (2.5 hours
on the river). Check out the site, www.
jequitba.com.br for more information
on the programs and costs. (The Sítio
can be reached by taking the Regis
Bettencourt Highway, accessible from
Av. Francisco Morato. )
Campos do Jordão´s Horta Florestal and São Bento
de Sapucaí
We had a number of exciting
adventures in the Serra da Mantiqueira
- the mountain range that divides the
states of São Paulo and Minas Gerais.
Once we camped at the Refugio de
Montanha Pedra do Baú in São Bento
do Sapucaí, (on the way to Campos do
Jordão). The first night we settled into
camp and the next day we backpacked
up to the three rock formations: Ana
Chata, Baúzinho and the ever-present
monolith, Pedra do Baú. When our
Outward Bound guide described the
three seemingly insurmountable peaks
and asked which one we wanted to
climb, the decision was unanimous –
Ana Chata – the one where you had to
pass through a cave first and then raise
yourself up out of the cave onto the
summit. On another hike with younger
participants we chose the neighboring
Baúzinho, a fairly easy trek up to the
summit. Both have great views of the
valley and Minas Gerais in the distance.
Pedra do Baú can be climbed but it is
recommended that a guide lead the
group with all of the necessary safety
equipment. For information on this
great, but rustic, facility that offers
simple lodging or camping in an open
field, email refugiodobau@uol.com.br
or phone 12-3664-7145 or 11-9686-9564.
Last November we experienced a
two-night camping trip in Campo do
Jordão´s Horto Florestal. Led by our
Outward Bound instructors, we divided
up the gear and food for the following
48 hours and headed off into the 8,300
hectares of uninhabited, yet beautifully
maintained State Park. Each day the
scouts shared the responsibilities for
setting up the camp site, preparing the
meals, finding and purifying water and
for navigating our way through this
desolate preserve that combines stands
of araucaria trees and natural forest
with expanses of wide rolling fields.
With no established campsites, latrines,
cooking facilities and conveniently
located water faucets, we were really
on our own. At night, we walked up
a grassy knoll, above the tree line, and
saw the explosion of stars above us.
There were shooting stars, and satellites
zipping by, the Southern Cross and
all manner of constellations shining
down on us. The Horto Florestal is
only available for day visits unless
you are participating in an educational
program. The Graded Scouts took
an orienteering course organized by
Outward Bound Brazil. Should you
wish to camp in the Horto Florestal,
I recommend you contact Rodrigo
Bastos, General Manager of Outward
Bound Brazil (Rodrigo@obb.org.br
or 12-9732-2212) to see what kind of
outdoor educational program you can
develop. The Park offers many trails
and if interested in hiring a guide, try
www.zoomaventura.com.br. When in
Campos do Jordão take advantage of
the many activities this picturesque
April

Bavarian-style town offers: arborismo,
horseback riding, cultural events,
mountain biking, lake fishing, train
rides, guided tours for kids as well as
a number of interesting tourist sites
(palace, chocolate factory, waterfall,
etc.).
Atibaia
We have taken a number of trips
to Pousada Pedra Grande – a great
family destination, (http://www.
pousadapedragrandeatibaia.com.br
11-4411-0999). This inn offers many
options for those looking to escape
São Paulo without having to travel too
far. There are camp grounds, chalets
and cabins, as well as a number of
amenities such as pools, soccer field,
zip line over the river, a rope bridge,
TV and game rooms and a number of
great trails. It is worthwhile hiking up
to the Pedra Grande, a gigantic rock
formation offering great views of the
city of Atibaia. On clear days you can
see hang gliders taking off. Although
rustic, the inn has generally everything
you might need including a guide who
will lead you on a visit to nearby caves
during the morning nature walk and up
to Pedra Grande itself. This location is
perfect for families where some wish
to camp and others enjoy being under
a roof, on a bed and in front of the
fireplace.
So no matter the adventure, whether
braving an Outward Bound experience,
taking advantage of the sports and
activities offered in charming towns
nearby São Paulo or camping out in Joe
Sherman´s backyard, your family will
enjoy and benefit from the experience.
Check out the sites of the outstanding
destinations mentioned above. Other
great adventure spots in other states
include:
· Chapada Diamantina, BA (www.
guiachapadadiamantina.com.br)
· Chapada dos Veadeiros, GO
(www.chapada.com)
· Chapada dos Guimarães, MT
(www.chapadadosguimaraes.com.br)
· Monte Verde, MG (www.
guiamonteverde.com.br)
· Penedo, RJ (www.penedo.com)
· Cânion Itaimbezinho, RS (www.
bemtevibrasil.com.br/aparados.html)
2011
Night Rides in the City
By Maureen Kennedy, AmSoc board member
Back in the day when my husband
and I were still dating (sigh), we spent
many a months flying back and forth
between New York and São Paulo to
visit one another. During that tender
time, we logged a lot of evenings in
Parque Ibirapeura, my husband on
foot, running, and me cruising beside
him on one of the – let’s call them
charming – old bikes for rent in the
park.
When I moved down to São Paulo
last fall, I debated whether I should
bring my bike with me. After all,
would I really want to ride round and
round in the park like a hamster on a
hamster wheel or worse yet, take to
the street by myself (why not hold a
‘Rob me!’
sign while I’m at it)? Add to that the
fact that I was six months pregnant
at the time and the bike was already
collecting dust, and well, you get the
picture.
But of course, when you’re
moving, common sense sometimes
eludes you. And despite my better
judgement, the bike got packed up
and shipped to São Paulo with the
rest of our belongings. And yes, when
the bike arrived, given all the traffic
and pollution, I asked myself, “What
were you thinking?”
Not one to be defeated by
circumstance, I did a little digging.
And what I found was despite its über-
urban nature, São Paulo actually has
a very active biking scene. So, if like
me, you brought your bike down here
and are wondering what to do with
it, or if you’re looking for a fun way
to spend an evening or a weekend,
search no further.
The biking groups below offer
guided rides in the city at night (after
traffic has died down) and, in some
cases, weekend rides in the country.
Sampa Bikers
www.sampabikers.com.br
Good for beginners, Sampa Bikers
The American Society
of São Paulo
ride every Wednesday night,
leaving from the parking lot next to
Camelo Pizzaria, Av. Pres. Jucelino
Kubtschek, 151 (Itaim) at 9 pm,
returning at 11.
Night Bikers
www.nightbikers.com
For a moderate ride (a step up from
beginner), join Night Bikers on
Tuesday nights. The
group meets at Rua Pacheco de
Miranda, 141, at 8:45 pm.
Clube dos Amigos da Bike
www.cab.com.br
This group offers rides for both
beginners and those with more
experience. Beginners meet every
Tuesday night, leaving at 9 pm
from the Extra store in Itaim. The
advanced
riders bike on Wednesday nights,
leaving Extra at 9 pm, returning at 11
pm.
Saia Na Noite
www.saiananoite.com.br
Saia Na Noite is a women’s only
group with rides every Tuesday
night, leaving from Doceira Ofner
(Av. Nove de Julho, 5623) at 9 pm.
Need some gear? Check out the
following bike shops:
Biketech
www.biketechjardins.com.
br
Tutto Bike
www.tuttobike.com.br
TotalBike
www.totalbike.com.br
BikeTime
www.biketime.com.br
Forum 9
 Put on your running shoes!
By Ruth Hollard, AmSoc board member
For a newly arrived expat, running in
a city known for it’s high crime rate is a
daunting thought. Actually it is pretty
common for expats to spend months
(or years) within the gates of their
closed condominiums or on treadmills
at the gym, and only venturing out for
a run when at the beach. But actually
very few crimes in São Paulo are
committed against runners (like,
what kind of robber actually wants
to run AFTER a victim? ) Using
a few precautions, it IS possible to
run in São Paulo, and, if you are
like me, you will grow to love São
Paulo once you discover the joys of
running in this fantastic city. You
will discover that the public parks
are full normal people just like
you and me, and São Paulo will
suddenly become a much friendlier,
more human place to live.
Obviously, you need to use
some common sense. Here are a few
no-brainers:
DO NOT:
- Wear your Rolex.
- Wear your Gucci sunglasses.
- Talk on your iPhone 4g while
running.
- Text on your iPhone 4g while
running.
- Run at night on the street (parks are
OK until closing hour)
DO:
- Run early in the morning (I like to think
that the robbers are still sleeping)
- Run with a friend until you are at ease
running alone.
- Hire a personal trainer if you don’t
have a running partner.
- Carry your car key or house key in
a safe pocket and have it readily in
hand when you get to the car or to your
house.
- Carry some i.d. (I laminated a copy of
my drivers license)
- Carry a little cash in case you run into
some nasty people (I NEVER have and
never will)
10 Forum
Some other general hints before you run:
- Start with a medical checkup www.
einstein.br or www.fleury.com.br to run the perimeter counter-clockwise.
- Run early to avoid pollution, traffic,
heat, rain & harmful UV rays.
- Keep a “zona azul” parking coupon
book in your car.
- Take a little cash to pay the guys that
rip you off by “watching your car”.
- Take a snack and beverage and keep it
in your car for after your run
- Don’t forget hat/sunglasses/sunscreen
if running in the afternoon.
Once you’ve checked everything
off the above list, you are ready to
run. Where? Depending on your
neighborhood, you could run on the
streets by your house (ask the security
guards from your building if they think
this is a bad idea- they know of all the
local crimes). Personally, I like to run
on the streets by my house during the
week and on the dirt trails in the parks
on the weekends.
Which park?
Parque Ibirapuera
Rua Quarto Centenario
My personal favorite. Besides
the numerous shady asphalt lanes
throughout the park, there is a 6km
dirt path around the perimeter. It
starts at porta 6. Park on the street on
Rua Quarto Centenario (zona azul but
only after 8H00) or Rua Macau (free
parking if you arrive early). Go into
porta 6, take the dirt path on the right
The path is pretty well-marked using
wooden posts except for one little loop
in the middle of the park (why it is there
is a mystery to me) where it is easy to
lose the path. Generally if you get
lost, just keep running as close to
the perimeter as you can until you
find the dirt path again. There are
2 water fountains along this run.
I make a point to stop each time
around so I don’t get de-hydrated
during long runs. This park fills
up on the weekends so it’s best to
go early. www.parquedoibirapuera.
com
Parque Alfredo Volpi
(also known as ‘Bosque do
Morumbi’) Rua Eng. Oscar Americano,
382 6H-18H
Tel. 3031-7052
I drove right by this little jewel for years
before realizing that it was a public
park! ( The entrance is on busy Rua
Oscar Americano, if you miss it just
drive around the perimeter until you
come back to the entrance.) The thick
‘mata atlantica’ vegetation drowns out
the sounds of traffic and the tropical
foliage is a veritable wildlife refuge.
There is even a natural spring and
small ponds. There are 2 paths, one for
walking and one for running. Both are
very short, only around 1.5 km. But
the hills make up for the short distances
and the shade and forest smells make
for a very peaceful run. This is a great
place for getting your heart rate into
your anaerobic zone on the hills. There
are also picnic tables and a playground
for the rest of the family. No bikes or
dogs are permitted on the paths. Parking
is inside of the park, and it’s free.
USP
Av. Afranio Peixoto
5H30-20H Mon-Sat
April
 The American Society
of São Paulo

The University of São Paulo

campus is a good place for long
runs with its tree-lined roads,
Basketball Tournament
but it is pretty much asphalt By John Kennedy, Director of AMSOC Athletics
only. There is plenty of parking.
Just come in Portaria 1 at the On April 16 at Chapel School in Chacara always tough and athletic Cougars, GM,
end of Av. Afranio Peixoto and Flora, the American Society is planning PACA School and the American Society.
stop wherever you’d like (the to host its first basketball tournament We expect several more teams to enter
parking gets packed on late in years. The tournament will be 5 on 5 from our regular sports leagues in softball
Saturday mornings). Pets are full court games with two 10-12 minute and football.
welcome but water fountains halves. Depending on the numbers of So if you are basketball player and
and bathrooms are located team entrants, we expect to complete the have an interest in playing, either as an
inside of the buildings. tournament in one day, starting at 9am and individual or play with a group of buddies
going to late afternoon. that would like to form a team, contact
Parque de Povo To date, there are a handful of teams that John Kennedy at
have indicated their commitment to play, john@kennedy-partners.com.
Ave. Henrieque Chamma 590 such as two teams entering from the US There will be snacks and refreshments
Tel 3078-6869 Consulate teams who have several ex-semi- on sale, and the public is welcome to
This is a new park on the pro basketball players on their squads, the attend.
marginale at Cidade Jardim
bridge. Parking can be on Rua
Napoleon Michel or on rua
Henrique Chamma (some days
parking here is prohibited).
The park has asphalt paths,
bathrooms, water fountains.
This is a good place to run early
in the morning as the trees are
still young and do not provide
a lot of shade yet.

Running in São Paulo isn’t

only good for your heart, soul
and mind, but it may also
help you to integrate into this
wonderful country. So get out
there and experience São Paulo
from the runner’s perspective.
At the very least, you will have
a new appreciation for your
city. But be careful, you risk
falling in love with Sampa and
you may never want to leave.

2011 Forum 11
 The Community Action Committee needs you to
help Maria Paula
Sometimes the Community Action mental handicap that has made her although she still has a difficult time
Committee can meet a need easily. schooling difficult. She attended a academically. In addition to going to
Recently we asked our community for public school for one year but was a private school, Maria Paula sees a
help in donations for 12 new babies unable to keep up with her peers, both speech therapist and a psychotherapist
at two different organizations. The academically and emotionally. Nilma, once a week.
numbers aren’t yet There are two ways our
in on the second community could help. First,
campaign but, as the private school costs R$650
usual, our community a month. This is a lot of money
hit the target and then for a “family” like Lar Tia
some. Thank you! Edna where there are 18 other
Maybe we can children with needs to be met.
help again, this time Would anyone be willing to
with support to a contribute towards Maria
child at one of the Paula’s educational needs,
AmSoc supported either with a one-time donation
orphanages, Lar Tia or a monthly donation?
Edna. After a rough Second, Nilma feels that
start to life, Maria Maria Paula would benefit
Paula was taken in by tremendously from one-on-
Lar Tia Edna when one contact with a caring
she was four years person who could give her
old. She thrived in much needed support and
her new home and is attention – a mentor of sorts.
a fun-loving, happy Would anyone be able to take
little girl. Now ten years old, she loves the director of Lar Tia Edna, then an interest in Maria Paula - visit her,
to play soccer and other ball games and placed her in a small private school play
one of her favorite pastimes is playing where again Maria Paula continued to games with her, help her with homework
board games and card games. She’s struggle. She now goes to a school for and make her feel like the special little
helpful when needed, cooperative, children with special needs, Essência girl she is?
well-behaved and loves going on Equipe de Ensino, in Moema. She gets If you’re interested in helping, please
outings. She is eligible for adoption. lots of individualized attention and contact the AmSoc office on 5182-2074
Maria Paula suffers from a slight this is helping Maria Paula learn, or amsoc1@amsoc.com.br

12 Forum April

Tiffany Raffle
for Charity
Many remember our fun event in October
last year when Tiffany & Co. hosted the
American Society for “Petals for a Cause”.
Invitations were sold and guests were
received with cocktails and treats and then
picked a flower to see if they won one of the
ten pieces of jewelry offered by Tiffany’s.
All the money collected (R$16,000)
went directly to the Community Action
Committee (CAC). Two pieces were not
picked and thus donated to the American
Society. The value of these two prizes (a
watch and a silver necklace) is R$9000.
This is your chance to win one of these
prizes and more by buying some raffle
tickets at R$30.
Most importantly you are contributing
directly to the projects sponsored by CAC.
Tickets will be sold at all our events, by
Board members, CAC members and our
office. The drawing will take place at our
Annual General Meeting on May 5th.
Make a difference by supporting our
children’s organizations of CAC.
Volunteer Day
on April 9th
There is still time to register for the April
9th Volunteer Day. The Community Action
Committee (CAC) of the American Society
is looking for volunteers of all ages to make
this year’s Volunteer Day a success. You
can choose to participate in the activity you
like the most: football, basketball, soccer,
swimming, playing games, face painting,
crafts, cooking lunch, etc. Families can
participate together, and kids are welcome
to come and help.
You can sign up for Volunteer Day
shifts from 10:30-1:30 and from 1:00-5:00
by contacting the CAC’s new Volunteer
Coordinator Guadalupe Alas lupealas@
gmail.com
We also need donations of snacks, drinks,
hamburgers, hotdogs, and baked goods, or
you can sponsor lunch for a child for just
R$10.
2011
Community Action Committee
Accomplishments of 2010
The CAC is comprised of 20
leaders who have volunteered to
organize and supervise the activities
planned for our 10 chosen charitable
children organizations. We have
designated a guardian angel from
the committee for each institution
that monitors any donations which
we make to the institution as well as
organizes volunteers to help at the
institution
What CAC has done this last
year 2010:
Monitored donations made to our
institutions
R$100,000 has been allocated to our
institutions for completion of bakery,
new floors, roofing, equipment,
transportation repair, scholarships
for outstanding students, as well as
emergency funding.
Christmas Angel Party for 250 children
from our institutions
A day of games, shows and
organization and gift bags from
AMSOC members and friends
given to each child . Monetary
value spent for this event is
approximately R$120,000.
Two volunteer days for approximately 50
children each
A day of sports, games, lunch and
loving care from our volunteers.
(approximately R$10,000)
Campaigns to raise necessities for our
institutions (approx. R$10,000)
Special Milk campaign
Babies clothes and toy campaign
Warm jackets campaign
Over 2000 man/woman hours have
been volunteered just this last year
Total of over R$250,000 has been
allocated this year either in monies
or inkind giving. We can do much
more if we have more contributions.
The American Society
of São Paulo
These are our sources with which
you might help us with for 2011:
- Corporate donations
- Helping hand membership (R$300
of the membership goes directly to
CAC)
- Support of Events sponsored by
AMSOC to raise funds
- Tiffany raffle in April
- Auction items at 4th of July
- Vida Jovem/AMSOC Show and
Dinner August 2011
- Tiffany Event in November
- Golf Tournament in October
-Adult Charity Halloween party in
October
Help us make a difference in the
lives of these beautiful children
and continue to be proud of our
community and The American
Society of São Paulo.
We also plan volunteer days with
sports and lunch several times a year
for about 50 children at a time.
The Angel Christmas party is
organized for 250 children from our
institutions. Each child is sponsored
by AMSOC members and friends
and receives a Christmas bag with
a full set of clothes, a toy and
candy treat in a back pack . All the
children are picked ou by buses
where a whole day of games with
lots of prizes, shows and of course
Santa Claus who gives them their
Christmas bag of presents.
Forum 13

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14 Forum
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ern Uni. Treats individuals, couples, and families.
Specialized in anxiety, depression, cultural issues, and
adjustment disorders. Call Dr. Garman at (11)7179-
9723 or 3898-2330 or send an e-mail to
hcbgarman@aol.com.
Need English Tutor
Eliza, my sister (4), and I would like to use our Eng-
lish with a native speaker. I would also like to learn
how to read and write in English. If you are interested
in tutoring once a week in Higienópolis, please e-
mail Joana, my Mom, at joanacanedo@gmail.com.
Thanks, Thomas (6).
Computer & Webmaster Support
Are you having problems with your computer? Ri-
cardo Sabbag is the right person to help you out! If
you need general computer assistance or webmaster
services contact Ricardo at
quantumki@hotmail.com or 8472-7319.
Smith Limo Service
We provide our customers with excellent personalized
service while visiting São Paulo State. Bilingual Driv-
er. English and Spanish. Appropriately dressed. Dis-
crete and Fully insured vehicle, tinted windows and
AC. Affordable prices. The driver assists the passen-
ger during the entire duration of the assignment. Call
Paul for more information. Tel: +55 11 6064-4843 or
smith.limo.service@gmail.com
Piano Class
Beginning music classes for piano or keyboard. Spe-
cial method for children 4 years and older, teenagers,
adults and senior citizens. Classes in Portuguese or
English. Contact: Suely Azevedo, 8456-5365 – 49
year old music teacher with 30+ years of success-
ful experience! Class is your house in Morumbi and
South Area. R$95 (reais) per class (50 minutes)
April
 The American Society
calendar of São Paulo

Learn more about this month’s AmSoc events (highlighted) at www.amsoc.com.br.

April 2011 Important Dates: 21 Tiradentes Day (BR), 22 Good Friday, 24 Easter Sunday

4 Monday Scottish Country Dancing Club 1st Monday of every month at Drake’s Pub, in Brazilian British Centre at 8 pm. Please visit
http://www.standrews.com.br for more details.

6 Wednesday INC Monthly Coffee & Vendors For more information please contact Birgit at monthlycoffees@newcomers-sp.com.br
Day

9 Saturday Volunteer Day at the U.S. See page 13

Consulate

13 Wednesday INC Red Rose Coffee For more information contact Birgit at monthlycoffees@newcomers-sp.com.br

16 Saturday Basketball Tournament See page 11

Includes silent auction, raffle prizes, buffet dinner, Caipirinha bar, DJ & dancing! Have
16 Saturday INC 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner only 35 pairs of tickets left. Member & guest: R$150/person, non-members: R$200, table
of 8: R$150/person . For ticket reservation: tickets.gala50@newcomers-sp.com.br. More
informations: www.newcomers-sp.com.br

At Chapel School. There will be sandwiches, soft drinks, water, cupcakes and Easter egg
17 Sunday Easter Party for Kids hunting in the yard! Let’s play together! For members: R$ 20/child, max R$ 50/family. For
non-members: R$ 30/child, max R$ 70/family.

26 Tuesday CAC Meeting 1pm - 3pm, AmCham Building, Rua da Paz 1431, contact Eileen Tasso for more information:
eileentasso@gmail.com

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2011 Forum 15
Brotas: Coffee and Adventure Sports
By Melissa Sabella Harkin, AmSoc member
If you’re looking for an adventure,
something different from a typical
vacation, visit Brotas, a Brazilian
municipality located in the state of São
Paulo. It is about 250 kilometers from
the capital city of São Paulo. The town of
Brotas itself has around 20,000 residents.
Even though it is small, there are plenty
of hotels and other accommodations at all
price ranges. You can go as primitive or
as upscale as you would like.
Despite its coffee-oriented historical
economic development, Brotas is known
internationally for its specialization in
adventure tourism, hosting the practice
of several adventurous sports such as
rafting and canoeing, taking advantage of
the Jacaré Pepira River.
Adventure tourism is your average
outdoor activities taken to a new extreme.
In some cases, it is a whole new sport
that nobody’s ever thought of before. For
example, imagine going through a three
hour obstacle course in the rainforest...
up at the tops of the trees! It’s called
Verticalia, and no place on earth has it
except Brotas.
Of course, you don’t have to climb
to the tops of the trees to find a little
adventure in Brotas. If that’s too much for
you, there are all kinds of great outdoor
activities, such as rafting and kayaking
the Jacare Pepira River.
Brotas is blessed with steep hills
and rushing rivers, and the residents
have capitalized on it, offering vacation
packages with some of the best river
rafting you’ll ever see.
There is also wonderful hiking in
the area around Brotas. The Itaqueri
Mountain Range rises high above the
town, and the unique geology of the area
gives it waterfalls. A tour guide can take
you to see the different waterfalls, each
one unique from the others. They are
famous throughout Brazil.
Some like the wild and unusual
adventure sports Brotas has to offer, but
for others the pristine natural beauty of
the area is the draw. Brotas is remote and
small, so it has not been overdeveloped.
The surrounding area is full of endangered
plants and animals, and other species
that you won’t see anywhere else. Many
Brotas tourists like to simply hike and see
untouched nature at its best.
Brotas has become a major ecotourism
destination. It is a lush, tropical paradise
with the mountain peaks in the distant
background and natural springs running
here and there throughout the forest.
There are also day tours to some of the
elegant and historic ranches in the area.
Each is different and has its own unique
attractions, like the Tamandua Ranch with
its “singing” sand that makes a singing
noise when you rub it. A good Brotas
guide will know all about the ranches in
the area.
The Alaya Adventure Center offers
programs for the entire family. It is
comprised of five acres of land at the
margins of River Jacaré. The main
attraction is Verticália (acrobatic
circuit) – 3 hours of adventure on the
tree tops, passing through stairways,
cables, suspended bridges and Tyrolese,
amounting to a total of 35 different
activities.
Cachoeira Água Branca - In the D. Calila farm
can be found this delicious waterfall, ideal
for relaxing, sunbathing and enjoying the
waters of a natural pool. There is also a
visit to the farm’s distillery, where one
can taste the liquor “pinga” which is
made by craftsmanship.
Cassorova Waterfall - A tour lasting the whole
day at the Cassorova ranch. To heat
up, start with a beautiful trail that cuts
through the Cassorova Valley until the
Quatis Waterfall. A pause for resting
at the natural pool of the ranch, and an
authentic lunch with countryside food
cooked on a firewood stove is part of the
second leg. After that, a small walk to the
Cassorova Waterfall ends the day.
Nova América Ranch Accommodation and Adventure
- A historic ranch, embedded in one of
the most beautiful landscapes of the city,
marked by the presence of the “morros
testemunhos” hills. Among its activities,
treking, tree climbing, rappel, horse
ridding and rural tourism.
Night Rafting - Ideal for adventure lovers,
it is carried out at full moon nights. The
course covers 12 km of river, downstream,
in a trajectory that lasts 3 hours of pure
adrenalin. In addition to the 3 hr course
in inflating boats on the river, it also has
2 hrs reserved for the Luau, under the
perfume of flowers, and the fresh night
breeze. The minimum age allowed is 14
and the activity begins at 8pm, leaving
from the city of Brotas, at Av. Mário
Pinotti, 504. For reservations or further
information, call +55 (14) 3653-5933.
More information @ http://www.
brotas.com.br/