As the largest city in Brazil—and the third largest metropolis on earth—Sao Paulo is the ultimate megacity for the urban explorer. Home to 20 million “Paulistanos”, Sampa, as it is affectionately known, has its own unique charisma and courteous locals alongside a bustling nightlife and profound cultural fingerprint.
The city’s world-class cuisine and shopping alone are known to fill the days from dawn to dusk. Indeed, São Paulo hosts the majority of the country’s wealthiest people, a welcoming Paulistanos population who knows how to work hard and spend what they make on the city’s many shopping and culinary temptations. Even those that don’t live there drop by at least once a year for their annual luxury shopping needs in the Vila Madalena or Jardins neighborhood, widely considered the eighth most luxurious street in the world with its modern designers and artisans.
As one of Brazil’s financial and commercial hubs, São Paulo hosts a variety of well-known events such as the Brazil Gran Prix Formula 1 São Paulo, São Paulo Fashion Week, the Indy 300, and even the 2014 World Cup.
The region surrounding São Paulo, is equally enticing. Adventure seekers can travel just south of the city to Parque Estadual Serra do Mar, a rain forest covered mountain range and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and sports lovers will feel right at home while experiencing the numerous football games and cheering alongside the passionate Brazilian fans. Located in Southeastern Brazil, between Curitiba and Rio de Janerio, São Paulo is also only 43 miles from the Atlantic Ocean beaches.
Known for its energetic samba music, São Paulo hosts the annual traditional Carnival celebration. The lively beats pulse through the city making it an especially fun place to visit. With sprawling views of buildings, cathedrals, museums, sports teams and parks, São Paulo has something for everyone and is a surprising gem for any luxury Brazil journey. Contact a Ker & Downey luxury travel consultant today to include the fashion, history, and urban flavor of São Paulo in your next South American adventure.
