Brazil - Caribbean beaches at Brazilian prices.
Brazil, the fifth largest country in the world, divided into states, then again into municipalities and fringed with over seven hundred kilometres of unspoiled fine sandy palm fringed beaches. Brazil's breathtakingly diverse coastline has become a magnet for divers and water sports enthusiasts keen to explore the wonders of the azure blue sea.
The landscape of Brazil offers much more than stunning beaches, it is renowned for the inland natural wonders of the rain forests, Amazon jungle and vibrant cities, alive with a melting pot of cultures. Apart from the natural beauty Brazil also provides exceptional value for money.
Brasilia, the capital is located inland built on reclaimed subtropical land, is mainly noted for its modern architecture receiving only a small proportion of the tourists visiting the northern beaches or the more attractive cities of Rio de Janeiro world famous for its festival and beaches at Ipanema and Copacabano and Sâo Paulo. With a population numbering over 10 million, Sâo Paulo is the heart of Brazil's commerce and finance. It is also renowned for its vibrant nightlife but it is Salvador de Bahia (Bahia) that is considered one of the most charismatic, steeped in history with an abundance of monuments and awash with the sights and sounds of Brazilian and African culture, in the many clubs and bars.
The Brazilian Federal Institute for Tourism has stated that Natal in the north-eastern province of Rio Grande de Norte is currently experiencing the country's highest growth in tourism, due to the stunning stretches of sandy beaches and crystal clear water but also due to government investment in infrastructure, hotels and amenities.
Brazil is also at the forefront of eco-tourism, with many natural attractions such as the Pantanal wetlands, spanning two states, this is the world's most important Biosphere Reserve, teaming with animals and plant species. Whilst the Amazon, is home to more than fifty-percent of the world's wildlife and flora, eco-credentials which will be hard to beat!
Considered to be one of the most promising emerging markets in the world, with fantastic tourist growth, investors from Europe and North America have recognised the that now is the time invest in the this potentially hugely rewarding market. Coupled with the favourable exchange rates, Brazil's currency is no longer linked to the US dollar, so investors are keen to snap up the prime beachfront development projects while the prices are still incredibly low.
The current president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has implemented reforms, supported by IMF programmes, based on three main tenets; tight fiscal policy, inflation targeting and a floating exchange rate. This has successfully brought down inflation and encouraged overseas investment, amongst other reforms which have resulted in higher employment and real salaries.
Brazil is recognised as the strongest economic force in South America, with a land mass the same as the USA, a population of 182 million providing an extensive workforce, oil and minerals. As one of the BRIC group of countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China), which although currently has no trading alliance, they cooperate with each other to maintain an equal footing alongside Europe and the US, the economy is set to exceed all expectations over the next 20 years.
Goldman Sach's initially recognised the economic potential of BRIC in 2003, has predicted that by 2050 the population of these four countries will add up to 40% of the world's population, with a commensurate GDP. Goldman Sach's also forecast Brazil to be amongst the world's five top economies by the year 2050, with an extensive supply of cheap labour, natural resources and a fledgling real estate market currently undervalued, provide excellent conditions for growth.
Internet travel agent Opodo has predicted that Brazil is set be one of the top emerging destinations for 2007, with tourism predicted to grow 4.3% per annum over the next seven years.
Brazil, in particular the north-eastern regions provide spectacular beachfront settings and properties at a fraction of the cost of the Caribbean and Spain.
BRIC, a term originally identified in 2003 by Goldman Sachs, refers to Brazil, Russia, China and India who have taken steps to reform their economies and work in cooperation to effectively compete in the world economy. These countries have the potential to become one of the strongest economic powers by 2050, due to increased wealth, population increase, leading to higher demand for property and increased prices.
The government is keen to attract foreign investment, therefore, there are no restrictions on foreign ownership and all properties are freehold.
Under the present government interest rates have dropped from 26.5% to 15.75% in 2003.
The property market is still in its infancy, with huge room for growth and the strong UK pound allows increased buying power.
The cost of living in Brazil is 20% lower than the UK, allowing high living standards, at low prices.
The successful fiscal policies have seen Brazilians becoming financially better off than ever before, with increased spending power and a mortgage market that is set to take off.
Brazilians, particularly city dwellers are becoming increasingly aware of the possibilities of investing in property. Currently only 22% of Brazilian's have financed their property through a mortgage, however, with interest rates falling and more accessible mortgages prices will increase in line with the increased demand for property.
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