Introducing São Paulo
One of the world’s biggest metropolises, São Paulo looms large over South America. While the city lacks the natural beauty of Rio, Sampa – as it’s affectionately called by locals – has much going for it. This is, after all, the cultural capital of Brazil, with a dizzying array of attractions including first-rate museums, nightly concerts, experimental theater and dance. The nightclubs, bars and restaurants are among the best on the continent. Paulistanos (inhabitants of the city) believe in working hard and playing harder, and despite constantly complaining about street violence, clogged highways and pollution, most wouldn’t dream of living anywhere else.
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Though founded in 1554 by Jesuits, São Paulo remained a colonial backwater for much of its history. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that it began to emerge from the shadows, and the 20th century brought an explosion of immigrants from all over the world to work on the railroads, in the factories and in the fields. By the 1950s São Paulo took the lead as the country’s industrial and commercial center. The result of the flood of immigrants is clear: the city of 17 million (metropolitan) is Brazil’s most culturally diverse destination. For the wanderer, a stroll through Sampa’s neighborhoods is a window into the shops and restaurants of the world.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
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Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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RE: Brazil - please critic this itinerary
by Wendy79 01 June 2012
I really enjoyed spending one day in Sao Paolo. I think I had about a ten-hour layover; I took the bus to the center of the city, went…
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RE: Brazil - please critic this itinerary
by ban_janti_return 01 June 2012
It's not worth you time and airport is far away from the city. Simply book a flight on Iguazu on the same day. Best part of Sao Paulo…
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Re: Brazil - please critic this itinerary
by baker279 01 June 2012
Thanks for all the replies. If I do visit Sao Paulo how long should I spend there? I was stopping because of the flight schedule and…
