Report shows sunny future for Brazil business tourism
September 12, 2013
International business is a major component of Brazil's economy. Professionals travel from all over the globe to visit the nation, equipped with international phone cards to Brazil so they can stay in touch with co-workers, friends and family back home. While the markets in the country have been a bit volatile, a new report from The Global Business Travel Association suggests that things will be looking up for Brazil in the near future.
The GBTA report
The news for Brazil is mixed, but overall it should be a good omen for people interested in visiting the country. GBTA initially downgraded it's near-term outlook for business travel to Brazil, in part because of the financial trouble the nation has experienced as of late. In June of this year, however, things began to rebound, so long-term forecasts are looking good.
According to the report, business travel in Brazil is set to increase 6.3 percent over the rest of the year, reaching a total of $31.8 billion. In 2014, that growth will continue, with a projected 12.6 percent increase.
In comparison to other nations, GBTA ranks Brazil as ninth in the world for business travel. Currently it is surpassed by South Korea, Italy and France, but if the markets continue to improve, it looks like it may beat out those nations in the near future.
"Business travel to and from Brazil will continue to benefit from the country's growing economy, as Brazil continues to be a globally important market," said Tad Fordyce, head of global commercial solutions at Visa Inc., which sponsored the study.
Non-business travel
Of course, many people visit Brazil for reasons other than business. Tourism is a huge part of the economy there, because the nation has so much to offer. From wild rainforests to even wilder urban life, travelers of all sorts can enjoy the culture and wonder of Brazil.
The Carnival celebration in Rio de Janeiro is one of the most popular attractions for international tourists. In 2014, the festival will take place from February 28 to March 4. Every day there are bands playing in the streets and live concerts, but the main event is the Parade of the Samba, when celebrants dress up in vibrant costumes to dance and march through the streets of the city.