About SP

São Paulo, the largest city in Brazil with an estimated population of 18,8 million (Great S. Paulo), is the most populous city in the Southern hemisphere and is expected to be the third in the world, in 2010. Depending on which definition is used, the São Paulo metropolitan area is ranked as either the first or second most populous in the Americas.

São Paulo is the capital of the State of S. Paulo, the most populous and richest Brazilian state. It is also the richest city of Brazil, exerting strong regional influence in commerce, industry and finance as well in as arts and entertainment.

The city has many renowned landmarks. The Immigrant's Hostel greeted millions of immigrants as they came to Brazil in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Paulista Avenue, in downtown, is the most important financial center of the country and South America. The city is home to the São Paulo Stock Exchange (BOVESPA). São Paulo has been home to several of the tallest buildings in Brazil.

São Paulo is also known for its architecture and multitude of skyscrapers, unreliable weather and size of its helicopter fleet.

São Paulo is a major cultural centre. The city has an ethnically diverse metropolitan area, with heavy Italian, Portuguese, Lebanese, Japanese, German, Jewish, French, Spanish, Greek, Hungarian, among other influences.

The city is known for its varied and sophisticated cuisine, ranging from Japanese to Morocco’s, from fast food chains to five star restaurants. There are approximately 62 different types of cuisines in São Paulo, and more than 15,000 restaurants. Other venues such as bars, pubs, lounges and discoteques cater to a variety of music tastes.

São Paulo is home to the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) and "Pinacoteca do Estado", Contemporary Art Museum, and many others, a symphonic orchestra (São Paulo State Symphony (OSESP - based in the Sala São Paulo theatre in the gorgeous Julio Prestes train station), and a Formula One Grand Prix racing circuit (Interlagos).