São Paulo – The people of Brazil are what 45% of the foreign tourists researched by Zaytec institute consider best in the country. The organisation promoted a research at the request of the Brazilian Tourism Institute (Embratur). In second place came the natural beauties/nature (23%), beaches/sea (18%), sun/tropical climate (14%) and diversity (9%).
Research "Profile of Foreign Tourists and the Brazilian Image" took place from June 2009, with 2,405 tourists from 27 countries.
"The research shows that, despite the great challenges we still have, over 90% of the foreign tourists like coming to Brazil and recommend the trip to relatives and friends. And the people of the country is the main attraction we have,” said the minister of Tourism of Brazil, Luiz Barretto.
Among the most remembered cities, the first is Rio de Janeiro, recalled by 45% of those interviewed, followed by São Paulo (16%), Salvador (5%), Florianópolis (3%) and Fortaleza (3%).
The personality most recalled by foreign tourists was president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, with Pelé coming in second place in the study, for the first time. Player Ronaldo was the third Brazilian personality most mentioned by those participating.
"I call attention to two facts that I consider important: first, the confirmation that the nature, the culture and the style of life of Brazilians enchants and captivates those who come to visit us,” said Embratur president Jeanine Pires.
The positive aspects of the economy of Brazil were also present in the research, mentioned by 57% of those interviewed, who pointed out the growth, dynamics, strength and stability.
Football is still associated with the country, mentioned by 85% of those interviewed. Samba is also a reference among Brazilian music, recalled by 46% of those interviewed.
*Translated by Mark Ament
