Between 1 January and 31 October this year, foreign tourists in Brazil spent a total of US$ 3.54bn – 12.5% more than during the first ten months of 2005.

Embratur, the national tourism organization, has been working hard to promote Brazil as a tourist destination, for example by participating in international tourism fairs in other countries. Brazil has also hosted a record number of international tourism-related events in 2006.

Around the world, more travel agents than ever before are offering Brazilian destinations. In Europe alone, for example, 90 new tour operators have started selling holidays in Brazil in 2006.

Alongside the success of tourism, there has also been an increase in the number of foreigners visiting Brazil for business purposes. According to Embratur, business visitors tend to spend more money than tourists, and very often return to the country for a holiday with their partners or families.

For more information, visit the Embratur website.

Source: Office of the President and Embassy of Brazil in London