Brazil’s growing thirst for Scottish whisky
Brazil's growing middle class is developing a taste for whisky that has come from Scotland in what could be a developing trading platform between the two countries.
Whisky exports from Scotland to Brazil have shot up by a massive 50 per cent, the Scottish Whisky Association (SWA) has told the BBC.
In particular, the city of Recife is estimated to have highest per capita consumption of whisky across the globe, which is a revelation that will surprise many people.
Michael Moore, Scotland's secretary has welcomed this growing interest in whisky from the South American country's citizens.
"The numbers tell the story of a growing demand for Scotch whisky here in Brazil. But from the people I've met here and the changing demographics of this country, I am very confident that the potential for future sales is much greater," he told the BBC.
Brazil unveils World Cup schedule
In a move likely to please football fans, Brazil has today (October 21st) unveiled the schedule for the World Cup in 2014.
The programme will see Brazil open the tournament with just one game on Thursday June 12th in Sao Paulo, however supporters will be treated to a "Super Saturday" of four matches over the first weekend.
Christ the Redeemer celebrates 80th birthday
People interested in Brazilian property will be aware that one of the nation's most famous landmarks is celebrating an important anniversary.
Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro marked its 80th anniversary on Wednesday (October 12th) amid hundreds of worshippers.
Gay pride march promotes equality
Thousands of Brazilian homosexuals marched along the famous Copacabana beach promenade this weekend.
The gay pride parade called on authorities in the country to ban homophobia in order to increase equality.
Brazil and the EU sign cultural cooperation deal
Brazil and the EU have signed an agreement to improve their cooperation on cultural issues, which could interest those looking to invest in Brazilian property.
The European Commission has signed a four-year joint action plan that will focus on cultural diversity, heritage and the development of a sustainable cultural and creative economy.
It was signed-off on the margins of the EU-Brazil summit and is being heralded as another positive step in the parties' economic relations.
Androulla Vassiliou, the European commissioner for education, culture, multilingualism and youth, praised the deal as a recognition of the key role that culture plays in every society.
She said: "Strengthening cooperation and dialogue on culture as part of our strategic partnership is instrumental to improving mutual understanding and fostering closer links between our peoples."
Last month, Justin Dove told Investment U that the worsening outlook for Europe is making Brazil an increasingly attractive destination for those looking to buy Brazilian property and to increase their exposure to emerging markets.
Posted by John Holmes
Neymar will stay in Brazil
Brazilian striker Neymar has been the subject of transfer rumours for months as the footballer's skill came to light.
However, while Brazil is celebrating having such a star player in the run-up to the World Cup in 2014, teams around the world have been bidding to take him off Santos' hands.
Brazil experiences tourism boom
The boom in Brazil is pulling in people from all over the world and as the country's reputation has grown, so has its tourism.
According to the World Tourism Organisation, the number of tourists arriving in Brazil increased by 18.8 per cent in the first half of 2011.
UK to boost Brazilian tourism
Brazil is looking to the UK in order to boost tourism in the run up to hosting international sporting events.
The Latin American country is hosting the World Cup in 2014 and the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.
Brazil is a year-round destination
Brazilian property may be a wise investment as the country is the perfect all-year-round holiday destination.
Marco Lomanto, director of products and destinations for Embratur, said that in the run up to the World Cup, the 12 cities hosting the event will have promotions running explaining their history and encouraging people to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Brazil has a lot to offer tourists
Brazil is becoming increasingly popular with tourists as it becomes more and more accessible.
In the run-up to the World Cup in 2014 and the Olympic Games in 2016, the country is pumping huge investments into infrastructure, with a particular focus on improving air travel and airports.
