4505 Maryland Parkway Las Vegas, NV 89154 13 December 2008 Sharika Jones, VP of Human Resources Bellcom 835 Corporate

Drive New York City, NY 04485 Re: Travel Guide Recommendation Report Traveling to an unfamiliar place is very difficult and uncomfortable; traveling to a different country with a completely different culture and language is just scary. Our consulting group plains on helping the employees of Bellcom, and their families with this transition from their current home, to their new one in Rio de Janeiro. Our consulting group has done extensive research on Rio de Janeiro so we can provide the information you, your employees, and their families need to make this transition. This present report will cover a broad research of all the important aspects that Bellcom employees will encounter on their transition to their new lives in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In general the categories address on the report will include Local Requirements & Conditions, Cultural & Social Circumstances, Infrastructure & Services, and Leisure. At the same time we strongly recommend to Bellcoms Executives to set up their overseas employees moving plan as follows:

Distribute copies of this Travel Guide report to all Bellcoms employees. Purchase of pocket size Portuguese-English dictionary to each employees. Apply for work permits in Brazil as soon as possible. Book any of the recommended hotels listed on the report. To obtain all local IDs required by Brazilian laws. Distribute a wallet size card with all the emergency contacts. Remark the importance of the system changes including time, currency, electric current and measurement system.

We believe that with the information provided, that your employees, and their families that will be moving to Rio de Janeiro will have a smooth changeover and will have an enjoyable time during their stay. Sincerely, Sincerely,

Dan Alexander, Robert Mller, Bokyeong Seon, Daniel Shaffer. Research Consultant Group (702) 321-4567 mulleremail@yahoo.es

Encl.: Report (#pp 13) Metro Rio.pdf VISA APPLICATION FORM5-08

Transitioning to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

13 December 2008

Prepared for
Sharika Jones, Vice President of Human Resources Bell Communications 835 Corporate Drive New York City, NY 04485

Consultants
Dan Alexander Robert Mller Bokyeong Seon Daniel Shaffer

Business Writing Instructor

Professor Lynn Drebes University of Nevada, Las Vegas 4505 Maryland Parkway Box 455011 Las Vegas, NV 891545011

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Executive Summary
Background
BellCom Corporation has in recent times expanded their business operation overseas including Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Recently, however, BellComs employees have encounter problems conducting their activities at certain locations causing diminish of the companys distinction. Therefore, BellCom management has agreed to hire our research company with the purpose to elaborate a comprehensive travel guide report with recommendations on several aspects that will make their employees aware of the most important considerations to have in the new living and working environment.

Context
With the implementation of an employee manual for working in Rio, we foresee an immense change in employees relationship and adaptation to Rio de Janeiro, with the immediate improvement to the companys operations and productivity resulting from a considerable reduction on stress levels. Employees will be held responsible for understanding the contents of the handbook, and they will be expected to accept the recommendations made on it.

Methodology
In order to assure a successful gathering of information, the methodology used by our research group, we compiled the most important topics of interest in a transition to Rio de Janeiro. Thereafter, every topic is evaluated commencing with an extensive research process, which guided us to the right sources of information and most relevant topics to be address. After the information is analyzed and screened, our research group created a list of potential recommendations base on our findings. The final report contains a list of recommendations to Bellcom Communications, which by our criteria are the main subjects to be focus on.

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Recommendations
The guidelines presented will cover four main subjects of interest to all Bellcom employees moving to Rio de Janeiro with or without their families. In general these topics will be presented as follows: Local Requirements & Conditions In order to stay and work in Rio de Janeiro, Bellcom employees should be prepared for work authorization, visa, international drivers license or temporary identification card. Rio de Janeiro has a tropical climate and is usually humid during winter season because of the frequent rain. So an umbrella or poncho should be highly recommended. But a main tourist areas, like south side-beach areas, the temperatures are moderated by the cool sea breezes from the ocean, so light jackets or cardigan is good enough while walking around the beach at night.

Cultural & Social Circumstances The Brazilian Carnival is an annual celebration which is held 40 days before Easter and the celebration is almost in every corner of the city. This cultural event includes samba parades. There are also a lot of parks and squares including: Rio de Janeiros Botanical Garden, which is a beautiful park founded in the early 19th century. Parque Lage contains woodland gardens, aquaria and a childrens playground area. Also the school of visual art is a luxurious 20th century building which are protected as national monuments. Tijuca Forest is a huge rainforest area which covers highlands in the middle of the city.

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Infrastructure & Services The city of Rio de Janeiro has five airports but Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport and Santos Dumont Regional Airport are the best located airports, with a distance from hotel, shopping mall and other attraction within a 10 to 15 minutes drive. There are nearly 440 municipal bus lines and Rios transportation made subway, which is recommend as a public transportation that might be the best way due traffic jams. Leisure People who love sports should check out The Engenhao Stadium which held a lot of sports events, almost every week for the past 20 years. Fishing is also a popular activity in brazil, you could catch Brazilian copper fish and people dont need to have a license for fishing! Hang gliding is just perfect activity in Rio de Janerio because of its steep mountains geography; which has perfect take-off locations and landing zones on the beaches.

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Table of Contents
Executive Summary...............................................................................i Table of Content..................................................................................iv List of Figures.....................................................................................vii Introduction.................................................................................... .....1 Background.................................................................................... ......2 Recommendations.................................................................... .......3 Local Requirements & Conditions Working Permits and Visas..........................................................3 Ids in Brazil............................................................................3 Time and Temperature.3 Weather................................................................................ ....3

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Currency................................................................................ ....4 Cultural & Social Circumstances

Language...................................................................................4 Culture.................................................................................. ....4 Business Protocol.......................................................................4 Housing................................................................................. ....5

Schools......................................................................................5

Health..........................................................................5 Criminality............................................................................. .....5 Infrastructure & Services Transportation....................................................................... ....6 Communication..................................................................... .....6 Conversion System... ..........................................................6

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Banking...................................................................................6

Emergencies..............................................................................7 Leisure Accommodations. ...............................................7 Shopping............................................................................... ....7 Beaches............................................................................. .....7 Tourist Attractions...................................................................7 Methodology................................................................................... .....8 Findings.......................................................................................... .....8 Local Requirements & Conditions Working Permits and Visas.........................................................9 Ids in Brazil...........................................................................11 Time and Temperature..11

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Weather................................................................................ ...12 Currency................................................................................ ..12 Cultural & Social Circumstances

Language.................................................................................13 Culture.................................................................................. ...14 Business Protocol......................................................................14 Housing................................................................................. ..15

Schools....................................................................................15

Health........................................................................16 Criminality............................................................................. ...16 Infrastructure & Services

Transportation..........................................................................17 Communication..................................................................... ...19

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Conversion System... ........................................................20

Banking.................................................................................20

Emergencies.............................................................................22 Leisure Accommodations. .............................................23 Shopping............................................................................... ..24 Beaches............................................................................. ...24 Tourist Attractions..................................................................25 Conclusion...................................................................................... ...27 References...................................................................................... ...28

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List of Figures
Table 1: Am/Pm to 24 hrs Format Conversion Table ..11 Table 2: Monthly Temperature/Rainfall Averages for Rio de Janeiro ...12 Figure 3: Brazils Currency...12 Figure 1: Rio de Janeiro City Map ..17 Figure 1: Metro Rio Station Diagram...18 Table 3: Basic Imperial to Metric Conversion Table ....20 Table 4: Approximate Conversions to Metric Measures..21 Figure 4: Emergency Contact Card........23 Figure 5: Ipanema Beach............25. Figure 6: Cristo Redentor.............26

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Introduction
Since Brazil opened its market to foreign investments in the last decade, the establishment of foreign companies all over Brazil has increased significantly. Corporations from all around the world have been putting their eyes on this colossal country, the biggest in South America, establishing subsidiaries. In consequence many foreigners have been sent to Brazil to accomplish their objectives. One of these companies is Bellcom Communications, which in a tremendous effort to expand their operations on several cities around the world, has encountered several obstacles that they are trying to resolve by hiring our consulting group. Our group will particularly focus on their business operation in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Our objective is to prepare a concise guide with all the necessary information to ensure success in the expansion process that Bellcom has targeted. The course of action following a meticulous analysis and screening process on Rio de Janeiros main subject to focalize on, resulted in additional subtopics, which are to be used as the structure of the present report. All recommendations and findings are based on this thematic, and these will be organized as followed: Local Requirements & Conditions Working Permits and Visas Ids in Brazil Time and Temperature Weather Currency Cultural & Social Circumstances Language Culture Business Protocol Housing Schools Health Criminality Infrastructure & Services Transportation Communication Conversion Systems Banking Emergencies Leisure

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Accommodations Shopping Beaches Tourist Attractions

The report in your hands contains six sections: Introduction Background Recommendations Methodology Findings Conclusion

Background
The city of the Rio de Janeiro, has one of the most exceptional panoramic scenic views with exceptional beauty, constituted by the dramatic encounter of water and mountains given Rio a natural and exuberant geography. The topographical diversity of Rio de Janeiro extends out to the vegetable covering. Forests cover slopes and Atlantic forests are preserved in the National Park of the Whistler. Rio de Janeiro is situated 2254'23" of south latitude and 4310'21" of western longitude; it is the capital of the State of the Rio de Janeiro, one of the main provinces of southeast region of Brazil. Metropolitan Region of the Rio de Janeiro is composed by 17 municipal that constitute the called Grande Rio, with an area of 5.384 Km .The area of the local authority of the Rio de Janeiro is of 1.255,3 Km , including the islands and the continental waters. It measures from east to west 70km and from north to south 44km.

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Recommendations
The final list of recommendations and why these are consider relevant to Bellcom Communications and their employees relocating in Rio de Janeiro is presented as followed.

Local Requirements & Conditions Working Permits and Visas

Visas are a mandatory process to be completed in order to travel to Brazil, whether for pleasure or business, visas is a must to enter the country. The Visa application process is done entirely throughout the Brazilian embassy and its consulates, where all the forms and fees are to be submitted prior the Visa approval. Process can take several weeks, and should be initiated with anticipation of traveling days.

IDs in Brazil
In order to execute your daily activities in Brazil some documents are necessary to obtain upon arrival, and these are: Identity Card (RNE). Tax Payer Card (CPF). Work card (Carteira de Trabalho). Driving license.

Time and Temperature

The standard time used in Brazil is the 24 hour system were 0:00 hr or 24:00 hr is midnight and 12:00 hr is noon. Therefore everyone is aware of the am/pm system since analog watches works that way, but schedules, programming and business hours are presented in the mention format. At the same time the temperatures are express in Celsius degrees instead of Fahrenheit, to familiarize the people reading the present report with these units we will use them throughout the guide as a practice.

Weather
Another condition in Brazil that Bellcom members should be aware is the weather of Rio de Janeiro. In general the weather conditions are very stable all year long, without big fluctuation typical of tropical weather along the equator, Rios climate is warm and humid with temperatures that

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can reach or pass the 90 degrees in summer time, the opposite to the north hemisphere, hot season starting in December.

Currency
The official currency in Brazil is the Real, the familiarization with the aspect of the local currency, and exchange daily rates variance is crucial to the transition process to Brazil. This will occur as soon arriving to the airport, and exchange Dollars per Reals.

Cultural & Social Circumstances Language

The first barrier that most of the people traveling to Brazil has without a doubt the difficulty to communicate with others since the local official language is Portuguese. A basic knowledge of the local language is recommended to get around, and be more comfortable while developing daily activities. The more proficient you are with the language, the better chance of success you will have with your business activities. We strongly recommend acquiring, and distributing along the employees a pocket size English-Portuguese dictionary, followed by an intensive session of Portuguese language classes when arriving to Brazil.

Culture
The mixture of races made of Brazil a country with a rich culture and to the same time very unique. The interbreeding began between the Indian, the African and the Portuguese, but soon there came immigrants of the whole planet: Europeans, Asians, Jews, and Arabs. The result was a people cheerful and opened to the new, as only it exists in Brazil. Due to this great diversity, Brazil is one of the last provinces of the world in which nobody is foreign, where each Brazilian has a bit of the world in his blood. Perhaps this is the reason why the Brazilian always gives a warm welcome to the foreigners, and the visitors always try to come back.

Business Protocol
Brazil is full of international companies from all over the world, so most of the nationals are used to doing business with foreigners. Still, visitors who want an edge should try to speak Portuguese (not Spanish) as often as they can, because many Brazilians do not speak fluent English. It may
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even be wise to hire an interpreter to help during more important meetings and business discussions.

Housing
The availability of homes for sale or rent in Rio de Janeiro is very extensive, but at the same time costly since the city is one of the most visited locations in the world. Many neighborhoods are located along the cost line, given a bonus point to those locations close to the world famous beaches of Rio de Janeiro.

Schools
Like most of the countries in South America the private school education is considerably better. The majority of these private institutions consider on their lecture plans a very strong English language programs. This is the main reason why a private schooling is the main choice for foreigners establishing in Brazil.

Health
As with many tropical weather countries the risk to contract Malaria is high. Brazilian Health Authorities has imposed a mandatory set of vaccines for all the travelers entering the country. The acquisition of a private health insurance plan is crucial in order to access to Medical Facilities without inquiring on expensive bills, or getting denied medical attention for not having one.

Criminality
Not an exception, Rio as many other big towns around the world has a high level of crime. The authorities have development various plans to reduce or eliminate the robberies, assaults or crime in general, that in many cases affect in particular the people visiting the city. The best ways to avoid this type of inconvenient is in general common sense, but since many visitors are not aware of this inconvenience, in their homes make a perfect target to the criminals.

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Infrastructure & Services Rios City Map

The overall magnitude of a city and an indispensable tool before going to any city is the map of the town. In the present, the access to internet, and the revolutionary and vertiginous, development of portable GPS technologies, that is even included on many cell phones. These devices place in our hands the advantage of an interactive map, which contains much more information than regular maps.

Transportation
Rio de Janeiro is the second major city in Brazil after Sao Paulo, with a population close to the 8 million inhabitants. Its transportation infrastructure, counts with a vast net of highways, airports, port, bus lines, and one of the most modern subway lines in South America.

Communication
The ability to keep communication channels and networks working properly is not a difficult task in a city that has all communication services necessaries, available in the majority of big cities in the world. Rios telephone and internet service are reliable. Postal services are offered, as well as offices of the major currier services in the world.

Conversion Systems
Another important thing to consider when moving into Brazil is that certain appliances will not work. Electrical current is distributed in Brazil at different voltage than in U.S. Video systems have a different system of reproduction and recording. Very useful to keep in mind are these facts in particular when transportation of any appliances or electronics are being considered when moving to Brazil. To these mentioned changes you must add the fact that the measuring system use by Brazilians is the world wide use meter-kilogram, a very important think to know in advance.

Banking
Banking services are offer all around Brazil and their services are very efficient and reliable. The existence of foreign banks with offices in Rio is very common. The official currency is named Real and their value fluctuate on daily basis depending on the foreign exchange currency value set for the day. Dollars are also accepted in many places in particular the

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ones by the beach, and shopping centers. Accounts in dollars can also be opened at the banks offering the service.

Emergencies
The emergency services provided help in cases as needed, and are always important to carry at all times including emergency contacts phone numbers. Small wallet size card containing the emergency hot lines of police, fire department, hospitals, and also the US Embassy abroad services is suggested.

Leisure Accommodations
Rio as one of the most tourist places in the world offers an excellent infrastructure in terms of accommodations. Ranks go from luxurious hotels, to small motels and hotels with more affordable prices. The majority of hotels accommodations are located close to the beaches and downtown areas.

Shopping
No matter what you're looking for, there's someone in Rio willing to provide it for the right price, of course! People who travel to Rio will experience a wealth of variety shopping and elegance, you will definitely find something for your taste. Big name venues from around the world recognize Rio de Janeiro as a top destination for selling their brand names to the ever-growing masses of the cities tourism.

Beaches
The lovely beaches and its natural beauties attract many visitors and locals attention. With a coast that stretches out for more than seven thousand kilometers along Brazil, Rio de Janeiro the most visited beaches of the country, the famous beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana were several leisure option are offered.

Tourist Attractions
Only a few tourist destinations can offer the options and variety that Rio de Janeiro has. Its natural beauties, the great popular parties and the protected environmental reserves are valuable charms that fill the eyes of the foreign visitors by the time of choosing a destiny for leisure. There is
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no one who never heard of Rio de Janeiros Carnaval or the relaxing beaches of Rio the Wonderful City.

Methodology
We used several steps in the design of this package. We chose subjects that we believed would be useful to the employees of Bellcom. We then used reliable and well known to be true web-sites for the majority of our research. After gathering the information, we filtered thought the large amount of data that was available and selected the data that was most relevant to the employees of Bellcom. Lastly we created a document that presented all of the collected information in an easy to read package.

Findings
Rio de Janeiro is a beautiful place, but is very large and is anything if not law abiding. It is very important to operate using the correct permits, and having the correct and current Visas and identification in case you are stopped. It is also important to know where the American embassy is in case of trouble. Finally, one of the most important things you will need to know about the currency.

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Local Requirements & Conditions Working Permits and Visas

Brazilian authorities allow outsiders to work in a regular basis only if the person holds one of the following main visas: Temporary visa (two-year visa) type V with employment contract with the local company. Temporary visa (two-year visa) type V without employment contract with the local company, under the normative of a Technical Assistance Agreement existing between a Brazilian company and a foreign company.

Permanent Visa Holders of business visa are not allowed to work in Brazil, but only to have meetings, participate in seminars, meet customers and suppliers, prospect local markets, etc. not to perform any remunerated activities. Working permits are specific for local-based employer. In other words, the individual is not allowed to work in a different local company. If the employee stays more than five years with the same local employer, the interested may apply for a permanent visa, with no immigration restrictions. The foreigners dependents that eventually come with the immigrant worker usually hold a visa linked to her/him. If she/he leaves the country permanently, the family must leave as well. All this information is mentioned in general, for further information go to http://www.mte.gov.br/trab_estrang_ing/default.asp, and all the related information is available in English. The application for Visas are made at the Brazilian Consulates in U.S.A. The jurisdiction for their respective states is listed below, to obtain more information related to the Visa process, and consulate addresses and phone number, go to http://www.brasilemb.org/. Enclose to this report is the Visa application that you can also find at http://www.brasilemb.org/index.php? option=com_content&task=view&id=178&Itemid=228, under Visa Form. Brazil Consulate Atlanta Jurisdiction: Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

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Brazil Consulate Boston Jurisdiction: Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island e Vermont. Brazil Consulate Chicago Jurisdiction: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota e Wisconsin. Brazil Consulate Houston Jurisdiction: Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, e Texas. Brazil Consulate Los Angeles Jurisdiction: Arizona, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, California, Counties of Imperial, Kern, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara e Ventura. Brazil Consulate Miami Jurisdiction: Florida, Porto Rico and Virgin Islands. Brazil Consulate Nova York Jurisdiction: Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania e Bermudas. Brazil Consulate San Francisco Jurisdiction: Oregon, Washington, Alaska, California, Counties of Alameda, Alpine, Amador, Butte, Calaveras, Colusa, Contra Costa, Del Norte, El Dorado, Fresno, Glenn, Humboldt, Inyo, Kings, Lake, Lassen, Ladera, Marin, Mariposa, Mendocino, Merced, Modoc, Mono, Monterey, Napa, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, San Benedito, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Shasta, Sierra, Siskyou, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislau, Sutter, Tehama, Trinity, Tulare, Tuolunme, Yolo and Yuma. Brazil Consulate Washington, D.C. Jurisdiction: Washington, D.C, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Virginia, West Virginia and American Military bases except Guam.

IDs in Brazil
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When you arrive in Brazil, some documents are necessary to maintain your daily activities. Below you will be able to find a brief description of each one: Identity card (RNE). Once you arrive in Brazil, you must request the Alien Identification Card (RNE). You may obtain this card at the Federal Police and should request within 30 days of arrival or receipt of your temporary or permanent residence visa. This card is your principal document, and the basis for obtaining other documents, so you should always carry it. Taxpayer card (CPF). This is your taxpayer document in Brazil. It is obtainable from the Federal Revenue upon completion and presentation of form. It is necessary to have the RNE to obtain this document. This document is also necessary to open bank accounts, rent houses, sign contracts and other daily activities. Work card (Carteira de Trabalho). All workers are required to have a Carteira de Trabalho e Previdncia Social or Working and Social Security Document. No company may legally hire a worker without such document. This document is obtained from the closest regional office of the Ministry of Labor. Driving license. An international driving license has no permanent value in Brazil, but, based on it, and with the valid license from the country of origin, the Brazilian authorities may issue a temporary license which is valid until your Brazilian visa expires. During this period it is recommended that a Brazilian driving license is obtained.

Time and Temperature

The fallowing table represent the equivalent time of the day from am/pm format to 24 hour format.
Table 1: Am/Pm to 24 hrs Format Conversion Table

Am/Pm 24 hrs Am/Pm 24 hrs

12am 0:00 or 24:00 12pm 12:00

1am 1:00 1pm 13:00

2am 2:00 2pm 14:00

3am 3:00 3pm 15:00

4am 4:00 4pm 16:00

5am 5:00 5pm 17:00

6am 6:00 6pm 18:00

7am 7:00 7pm 19:00

8am 8:00 8pm 20:00

9am 9:00 9pm 21:00

10am 10:00 10pm 22:00

11am 11:00 11pm 23:00

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Weather
It is tropical, hot and wet type, with local variations, due to the differences of altitude, vegetation and proximity of the ocean; the annual middle temperature is 22 degrees Celsius, with daily averages lifted up in summer (of 30th one to 32); the rains vary from 1.200 to 1.800 annual mm. The stations are opposed exactly to that of Europe and the United States. In four months of the called high summer - of December to March - the very hot days are always followed by bright afternoons, when in general strong and quick rains fall, bringing fresh and clear nights.
Table 2: Monthly Temperature/Rainfall Averages for Rio de Janeiro

Jan Max Min Media Rainfall

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Ago

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec 29C 22C 25C 170 mm

29C 30C 29C 28C 27C 25C 26C 26C 25C 26C 27C 23C 23C 23C 22C 21C 19C 18C 19C 19C 20C 22C 26C 27C 26C 24C 23C 22C 21C 22C 22C 23C 24C 114 mm 104 mm 104 mm 137 mm 86 mm 81 mm 56 mm 51 mm 86 mm 89 mm 97 mm

Table 1 Source: http://br.weather.com/weather/climatology/BRXX0201

Currency
The best way to know the aspect of Brazils currency is by looking at it. The fallowing pictures introduce to the reader a general look of Brazils currency. Nevertheless, a more detail look it is recommended and the best place to look in to it is the link that we used as a source of this images provided by Banco Central do Brazil. http://www.bcb.gov.br/? NOTESCOINS Keep track of the exchange rates daily, either by inquiring directly from the bank or online, a good web page to visit is Yahoo Finances its link is: http://finance.yahoo.com/currency/convert?amt=1&from=USD&to=BRL

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Figure 1 Source: http://www.bcb.gov.br/?NOTESCOINS

Cultural & Social Circumstances Language

The first recommendation to start learning and familiarize with the Portuguese language is to step ahead of the game and before going to Brazil. Start the process of learning by completing to simple steps. First access the fallowing web site http://www.deltatranslator.com/delta/words_phrases.htm to learn some sentences, basic language structure, and built vocabulary. Second we recommend to Bellcom to acquire a pocket dictionary for the employees, and our pick is the Larousse Pocket Dictionary: PortugueseEnglish/English-Portuguese $6.95 at Amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Larousse-Pocket-Dictionary-Portuguese-EnglishEnglish-Portuguese/dp/2035420407. After this when employees establish in Rio de Janeiro we recommend to contact one of the fallowing Portuguese language schools, that will teach all the contents necessaries to learn properly the local language. Cactus Language Toll-free: 1-888-577-8451 http://www.cactuslanguage.com AmeriSpan Toll-free: 1-800-879-6640 http://www.amerispan.com

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Culture
People in Brazil are well known for their sense of humor, and their cheerful personalities, they love outside activities, and dance. The practices of sports is diverse and generalize, the national sport is soccer and is the passion of crowds. Brazilians love going out, in particular nightlife, and party is part of their blood. Samba is the other passion of Brazilians and the maximum expression of their national dance is presented during the days of Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro (2009 -February 21 to 24, 2010 - February 13 to 16). Brazilian culture is diverse same as the people that influences this culture, people from all over the world has feel attracted to the beauties of Rio, and never

Business Protocol
As mention before Portuguese is the dominant language in Brazil, but for Brazilian business people, English is widely spoken. Be aware that Brazilians do not consider themselves as Hispanics, so speaking Spanish is not the right approach, if you do so let them know most of them will appreciated they can understand it better than English. Remember Brazilian in general are charming, this is in particular for women; relax do not be cold that will be consider discourteous. Business in general their not execute in such fast speed as here, better start trying to built a relationship, make a question about soccer, and you will be delighfull how passionate are for the sport. They are a team player so make sure you also give that impression, by keeping the integrity of your team at all times during negotiations.. Moreover, you will have to emphasize that you value people and relationships over business. Business cards are very important for people in Brazil so keep a stack always with you. If you go for dinner consider this a good chance to related with other people in particular at the after dinner, coffe or liquor this a good time to have a conversation. Like in most of the Latin American countries, having a drink with colleagues after work is a common practice and is an opportunity to do business to talk and do business. This practice can be prolonged for hours after working hours, remember night life is very important for Brazilians. For visitors, punctuality is expected at meetings, but do not worry if the other person arrives thirty minutes late. Dress is formal. The rule of thumb is to go with the flow let your host to set the boundaries, but remember their very friendly and open, and they will as you what do you think of the garotas (girls).

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Office hours are generally between 9:00hr and 18:00hr. The time for lunch is in general between 12:00hr (noon) and 14:00hr. Most of the offices close in Saturdays and Sundays.

Housing
Housing is a very important or may be the most important issue to consider when moving in to a new city. Many things are to be consider, but in a city like Rio the Janeiro, be close to the beach and the metro station is bonus. May be you will not what to expend certain amount of money, but only by been close to the metro station is a plus, and by coincidence many metro station in Rio are close to the beach. Always remember having a car more than a commodity is an incommodity, unless you decide to live in one of the exclusive residential neighbors in Rio. Well we will not tell you how much expend or how to expended, we only give you some tips. First we assume that you will decide to rent instead of buying a house in order to get familiar with the city, and know were the best place for you to live. So please remember to make a short lease or even better go monthly, look first at South Rio. The price for rent in Rio varies but in general depending on the location the prices for good locations are approximately: Studio $800 $2000 1 Bedroom $1200 $2800 2 Bedroom $1400 $3400 3 Bedroom $1500 $3600

Schools
As mentioned before the private education is also the best choice, when times comes to select a good school, these institutions prepare the alumnus, with very high educational standards and the learning of a second or even a third is a given. Of course Portuguese is the official language, but these schools offer program that usually include English, and Spanish in their curriculum. Examples are: American School of Rio de Janeiro German School of Corcovado Our Lady of Mercy School The British School of Rio de Janeiro

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Health
We strongly recommend contracting a health insurance that cover at least the first three months of the stay in Brazil, this will give time to request quotes in different insurance companies, and learn more about their coverage, restrictions, and more. Also exist the possibility to contract a collective health insurance that will result in better quotes from the insurers. In general the price for Private Health insurance can fluctuate between, $600 to $2200 as single, and between $1800 to $4000 with dependants. Another important health issue important to resolve before going to Brazil is the vaccination may be required against Yellow Fever. You must present your an inoculation card indicating the vaccine has been given or they may not be allowed to board the plane or enter the country.

Criminality
The incidence of crime in city continues in a high level. Areas adjacent to major tourist attractions and the main beaches in the city are the locations were the majority of the street thefts and robberies occur. Visiting the beaches during the night is not recommended since they become very unsafe. The road linking the airport and the South Zone and on the beaches of Copacabana, have been increasing the security and the police presence, but continues reporting a high number of assaults. Like in all the great cities of the world, the formula for a tranquil stay in Rio de Janeiro is the self-protection against pick pockets, including the good practice of carrying always the minimum amount possible of money and values. Do not hold your passport with you, the ID or driver licence is good enough. The military police of Rio de Janeiro and the units of the municipal police maintain stations and service centers. If needed, ask suggestions or help to them.

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Infrastructure & Services Rios City Map

Figure 2 Source: http://www.riodejaneiro-turismo.com.br/pt/

Transportation
Roads and Highways: With thousands of cars circulating on a daily basis, and a drastic increase on the population in the past decades, the development and maintenance of roads and highways is crucial for the present and future to the city. The most symbolic structure of the modern Rio de Janeiro is the Ponte Rio Niteri, the principal connection of the capital with Niteri and the interior of the State of the Rio de Janeiro. Taxis: Conventional taxis are those who have the color standard ( yellow with blue stripes on each side) and operate for taximeter a) Initial charge R$ 4,30 b) Base fare is R$ 1,25 per Km. from 06 h to 21 h, Monday to Saturday.

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c) Base fare is R$ 1,50 per Km. from 21 h to 06 h, Monday to Saturday, this fare applies also to Sundays and holidays. d) Waiting fare R$ 15,75 per hour. Bus: The urbane buses that operate in Rio are regulated under the Local authority of the Rio de Janeiro, and must offer its services at prices determined by this office. These tariffs are: Conventional Omnibus R$ 2,10 A/C Omnibus
Distance (Km) Tariff (R$) < 30 2,25 < 50 2,40
70 90

> 90 4,00

2,55

2,70

Metro: Rio de Janeiros metro operates with two lines. The line 1 goes from Station Siqueira Campos in Copacabana to the Square Saens Pea, in the Whistler; the line 2, goes from Station Estcio to the suburb of the Pavuna. Rios metro is safe, efficient and easy to use. The tickets are sold at the vending kiosks at the entrances and vending machines located around there as well, their sold by one, two or ten tickets. There are three stations in Copacabana: Station Cardinal Arcoverde in the Cardinal Square Arcoverde, Station Siqueira Campos in the Streets Siqueira Campos and Fiqueiredo Magalhes, and Station Cantagalo in the Street Xavier da Silveira all to four blocks of the beach. The subway is a great help for the adventurous visitors and the stations Catete, Glory, Cinelndia, Native of Rio de Janeiro and Uruguaiana are the nearest of the principal historical and cultural attractions of the city. The Service of " Metr na Superfcie" ties subways stations without additional cost. Hour of operation are: Mon-Sat, 5:00 to 24:00 hrs. Sun and Holidays, 7:00 to 23:00 hrs. Many combinations are available for the public that uses the metro, their combinations of bus-metro, train metro, and others. Fallows are a list of these services, prices, and a diagram of the metro lines.
ONE WAY Tariff (R$) 2,60 METR+METR METR+METR METR+SUPERVIA NA SUPERFCIE BARRA 2,60 3,50 3,60 METR+NIBUS EXPRESSO 3,40 METR+NIBUS INTERMUNICIPAL 4,00

Figure 3 Source: http://www.metrorio.com.br/diagrama_rede.jpg

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Communication
To do an international call, dial: 00 + code of carrier* + Country Code (for example, 1 for U.S.A.)+ Area Code (for example, 7021 Nevada) + Telephone Number. Carriers* Telecom Embratel CTVC GTV Intelig Telefonica Telemar 14 21 34 25 23 15 31

The Brazilian postal services satisfy all the international standards, and there are many post offices in the city. In Saturdays and Sundays these agencies do not work. Anatel is the Company in charge of the telecommunications in Rio, in order to get a land line or internet access that is the company to call. ANATEL - Agncia Nacional de Telecomunicaes Central de Atendimento - Tel.: 0800 33 2001 Website: http://www.anatel.gov.br Rent of Cell phones CONNECTCOM Av. Treze de Maio, 33 sala 2410 - Centro - Tels.: 2215-0002, 9311-1112 connectcom@connectcomrj.com.br www.connectcomrj.com.br PRESSCELL Estrada da Gvea, 847/118 - So Conrado - Tel. & Fax: 3322-2692 24h - Tel.: 9617-2000 presscell@presscell.com.br www.presscell.com.br Internet access can be establish at many cafes and places around the city, hotel also offer a wi-fi services to their guest. The best alternative around town is to enter a Cyber Caf. Here is couple of them: CENTRAL FONE - Estao do Metr Carioca Centro Tel.: 2220-3841 - Av. Rio Branco, 156 ss Centro Tel.: 2544-6634

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TUDO FCIL - Rua Xavier da Silveira, 19 lj. B Copacabana - Estao Internet Tel & Fax.: 2522-3970 - Av. Prado Junior, 78 Copacabana Tel & Fax: 2543-7229

Conversion Systems
The electric current is not standardized, for what it changes from one place to other. In some cities the voltage is 220 volts and in others 120 volts. Rio de Janeiro like Sao Paulo have 110 volts AC, with 60Hz. A transformer and adapter are indispensable for some electrical devices. The plugs are two flat pins, American type. Most of the hotels can provide electric current to 110 or 220 volts, as well as transformers and adapters. The use of the metric system and Celsius degrees may be a hassle at the beginning, but with the time it gets very familiar and so easy to use since all units are in terms of tens, hundreds, thousands, etc In order to provide the best help regarding this matter we will provide to tables, and a web site that is very helpful the link is http://www.worldwidemetric.com/metcal.htm.
Table 3: Basic Imperial to Metric Conversion Table
Length Conversion Table Metric Units Kilometers 1 0.001 0.000001 0.0000254 0.0003048 0.0009144 1.609 Meters 1,000 1 0.001 0.0254 0.3048 0.9144 1,609 Millimeters 1,000,000 1,000 1 25.4 304.8 914.4 1,609,000 Inches 39,370 39.37 0.03937 1 12 36 63,360 Feet 3,281 3.281 0.003281 0.08333 1 3 5,280 English Units Yards 1,094 1.094 0.001094 0.02778 0.3333 1 1,760 Miles 0.6214 0.0006214 6.214e-7 0.00001578 0.0001894 0.0005682 1

Area Conversion Table Metric Units Square Kilometers 1 0.01 0.0001 Hectares 100 1 0.01 Ares 10,000 100 1 Square Yards 1,196,000 11,960 119.6 English Units Acres 247.1 2.471 0.02471 Square Miles 000.386 0.00386 0.0000386

8.361e-7 0.004047 2.59

0.00008361 0.4047 259

0.008361 40.47 25,900

1 4,840 3,097,600

0.0002066 1 640

3.228e-7 0.0015625 1

Volume Conversion Table (Liquid Measure) Metric Units Liters Milliliters Fluid Ounces U.S. Liquid Measure Units Quarts Gallons

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1 0.001

1,000 1

33.81 0.03381

1.057 0.001057

0.2642 0.0002642

0.02957 0.9464 3.785

29.57 946.4 3785

1 32 128

0.03125 1 4 Weight Conversion Table

0.007813 0.25 1

Metric Units Tons 1 0.001 0.000001 Kilograms 1,000 1 0.001 Grams 1,000,000 1,000 1 Ounces 35,270 35.27 0.03527

Avoirdupois Units Pounds 2,205 2.205 0.002205 Short Tons 1.102 0.001102 1.102e-6

0.00002835 0.0004536 0.0004536

0.02835 0.4536 907.2

28.35 453.6 907,200

1 16 32,000

0.0625 1 2,000

0.00003125 0.0005 1

Energy Conversion Table Metric Units Joules 1 Calories 0.2388 English Units BTUs 0.0009478

4.187 1055

1 252

0.003968 1

Table 3 Source: http://www.metricconversion.us/

Table 4: Approximate Conversions to Metric Measures

Symbo l

WhenYou Know

Multiply by LENGTH

To Find

Symbo l

in ft yd mi

inches feet yards miles

2.5 30 0.9 1.6 AREA

centimeters centimeters meters kilometers

cm cm m km

in ft yd mi

square inches square feet square yards square miles acres

6.5 0.09 0.8 2.6 0.4 MASS (weight)

square centimeters square meters square meters square kilometers hectares

cm m m km ha

oz lb

ounces pounds

28 0.45

grams kilograms

g kg

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short tons (2000 lb)

0.9

metric ton

VOLUME tsp Tbsp in fl oz c pt qt gal ft yd teaspoons tablespoons cubic inches fluid ounces cups pints quarts gallons cubic feet cubic yards 5 15 16 30 0.24 0.47 0.95 3.8 0.03 0.76 TEMPERATURE (exact) F degrees Fahrenheit subtract 32, multiply by 5/9 degrees Celsius C milliliters milliliters milliliters milliliters liters liters liters liters cubic meters cubic meters mL mL mL mL L L L L m m

Table 4 Source: http://ts.nist.gov/WeightsAndMeasures/Metric/conv.cfm

Banking
The banks are opened from 10:00hr to 16:00hr during the week, but they do not open on weekends or holidays. Before traveling, visitors must double check with their banks of the acceptance of their credit cards in Rio de Janeiro, and which bank accept your card. Teller machines (ATM) are found in almost any place, someone working 24 hours in a day for withdrawals in Reals with the most known cards. Look at the international logo on the back of your card.

Emergencies
We generated a list of the most important emergency phone numbers that can be helpful at a given moment.
Reporting Crimes: 2253-1177 Police: 190 or 2231-2020 Fire Dept: 193 or 2221-1234 Woman Dept.: 2233-0113 Federal Police: 2291-2142 Tourist Police Dept: 2511-5112 Violence Against Women: 2299-2121 Hospitals Rocha Maia Hospital: Samaritano Hospital: So Lucas Hospital:

2295-2121 2537-9722 2545-4000

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U.S. state Department encourage U.S. citizens to register with the respective U.S. Embassy or Consulate this can be done through the State Departments travel registration web site https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ or directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Rio de Janeiro Consulate Av. Presidente Wilson, 147 Castelo 20030-020 - Rio de Janeiro, RJ Phone: (55-21) 3823-2000 (55-21) 3823-2029 After Hours Fax: (55-21) 3823-2003 Web Site: http://www.embaixada-americana.org.br/index.php?

itemmenu=83&submenu=107&action=rio.php We also strongly recommend to print a copy of the fallowing wallet size Emergency Contact Card, to carry at all times.
Emergncia Police: 190 or 2231-2020 Fire Dept: 193 or 2221-1234 Federal Police: 2291-2142 Tourist Police Dept: 2511-5112 Hospitals Rocha Maia Hospital: 2295-2121 Samaritano Hospital: 2537-9722 So Lucas Hospital: 2545-4000 Rio de Janeiro Consulate Phone: (55-21) 3823-2000 (55-21) 3823-2029 After Hours Fax: (55-21) 3823-2003

John Smith
Av. Republica do Chile 200 20030-020 - Rio de Janeiro, RJ Contato de Emergncia Joan Smith (55-21) 2345-6789

Figure 4

Leisure Accommodations
One of the cities better prepare to receive tourist and business people. The offer of accommodations is extensive, and everything will depend on your budget. Because the list of hotels is so long we will recommend popular web sites, which specialize and also guaranteed the quality and standards of the rooms they offer. The experts are:
www.ORBITZ.com www.Expedia.com www.hotel.com www.Travelocity.com

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Shopping
The shops normally open from 9:00hr to 19:00hr, big shopping center are open until 22:00hr. All shops are usually close on Sundays. Credit cards and Traveler Checks American Express, Visa, Diner's Club and Master Card are accepted by most of the shops. However, it is always good certified the acceptance before doing any purchase. From time to time a small discount is offered for people paying with cash. In general the traveler's checks are accepted, which does not happen with personal checks of foreign banks. The visitor must observe daily the exchange rate of the dollar before going out shopping.

Beaches
It is very difficult for the one visiting Rio for pleasure or business to resist the appeal of its 80 km of beaches. But not any beach in this long strip of sand, you will find some of the most famous beaches in the world, Copacabana and Ipanema. Copacabana Beach Copacabana has the most beautiful sidewalk of the Atlantic Ave. in white and black Portuguese stones that shows a lovely mosaic resembling waves. In fact there are two beaches: Leme and Copacabana, which total an extension of 4,15 km. Frequented so much in the afternoon as for the night, the beach has kiosks, cycle lane, public services of showers and toilets, hotels, bars and restaurants. As well have two military forts, one on each end, when you can enjoy the panoramic and the ocean breeze while visiting. Ipanema Ipanema is, undoubtedly, a point of famous meeting of the Rio de Janeiro. Sophisticated and with an intense nocturnal life, the district is a blissful meeting of beach, bars and commercial shops. Constant attraction during the day, the beach also receives a great number of regular visitors during the evening. People walk, practice sports, drink coconut water, drive their bikes, or just enjoy the moment. The truth is that the soul of the native of Rio de Janeiro lives in Ipanema and the visitor; it is surrounded immediately by this spirit.

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Figure 5 Source: http://www.zerrenner.fot.br/

Tourist Attractions
An infinite list of attractions you can find in Rio de Janeiro, in particular during Carnaval. A list of points of interest is listed bellow; from them two are highlighted with the respective information, first one the Cristo Redentor proclaimed be a popular vote as one of the seven modern wonders, is definitely a must see destination. Cristo Redentor This 38 meters statue located at 710 meters over the sea level in the Morro Corcovado is the most popular image of Rio. Christ is the image of the faith and of the sympathy of the people of Rio de Janeiro, just celebrates in 2007, 76 years. From the year of 2000, when it received new lighting, the monument and his accesses are suffering a revitalization process. The hill point inaugurated a new mechanic access in 2002, with panoramic elevators and escalators. So, it will not be necessary any more to face 220 steps that get a beating near the statue.

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Figure 6 Source: http://www.zerrenner.fot.br/ Botanical Garden A true ecological sanctuary, the Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro can be defined, one of the most important ten of their kind in the world, which besides sheltering the rarest species of plants of the Brazilian flora and other countries, is the best option of leisure for children and adults, a delight for those wanting to contemplate the nature. Ponte Rio Niteri Finished the 5th of March of 1974, its real name is Bridge President Costa, is one of the biggest bridges in the world with 13,9km of extension and 20m of width. The total of built area is 210.600m . Catedral Metropolitana Central do Brasil Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil Confeitaria Colombo Copacabana Palace Cristo Redentor - Histrico da Construo Enseada de Botafogo

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Feira de So Cristvo - Centro Luiz Gonzaga de Tradies Forte de Copacabana Ipanema Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas Maracan Marina da Glria Museu do Primeiro Reinado Museu Histrico Nacional Po de Acar Praia do Diabo Praia do Pepino Theatro Municipal Trem do Corcovado

Conclusion
By using the information and the recommendations that we have laid out in this packet, we believe that you, your employees and their families will have a smooth transition to their new lives in Rio de Janeiro. As we said, we know that moving to a new place is difficult, but we are determined to make sure that all the employees of Bellcom will adapt successfully to the new city, people and surroundings. We are certain that the report presented will be a valuable asset to Bellcoms strategy on their establishment overseas, and valuable tool for the present and future employees going to the Wonderful City.

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References
Brazil. Ministry of Finance. Banco Central do Brasil. Bank Notes and Coins. Banco Central do Brasil http://www.bcb.gov.br/?NOTESCOINS http://www.rio.rj.gov.br/smtr/smtu/smtu_tarif_tax.htm http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1072.html http://www.braziltour.com/site/en/home/index.php http://www.ipanema.com/welcome.htm http://www.enjoybrazil.net/brasil/informacion-util-brasil.php http://www.brasilemb.org/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=41 http://br.weather.com/weather/climatology/BRXX0201 http://www.mte.gov.br/trab_estrang_ing/default.asp http://finance.yahoo.com/currency/convert?amt=1&from=USD&to=BRL http://www.zerrenner.fot.br/ http://www.embaixada-americana.org.br/index.php? itemmenu=83&submenu=107&action=rio.php https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ http://www.anatel.gov.br http://www.deltatranslator.com/delta/words_phrases.htm http://ts.nist.gov/WeightsAndMeasures/Metric/conv.cfm http://www.metricconversion.us/ http://www.amazon.com/Larousse-Pocket-Dictionary-Portuguese-English-EnglishPortuguese/dp/2035420407. http://www.amerispan.com http://www.cactuslanguage.com

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