Sao Paulo is the capital of the state of Sao Paulo in the South East of Brazil. It is the state with the countries largest population, largest industrial complex, highest economic production, the one that receives the largest number of immigrants and, as expected, the most cosmopolitan state in South America.

Sao Paulo was founded by the Jesuits in 1554, on a plateau above sea level, but only 45 miles from the coast, as a mission for early settlers and the Indians who inhabited the area. For a long time it remained a small town. Around 1850 it began to grow and became richer thanks to the highly productive coffee plantations in the state. Later on, the income from coffee exports and the increasing population provided capital and manpower for the foundation of an industrial base. Today it is the industrial and financial centre.

Whether youre after culture, live music, a disco or just a bar to hang out in, you wont have much of a problem in Sao Paulo. There are four main centres Bixiga, with good bars and live music ,Jardins with some good neighbourhood bars, Itaim Bibi and Vila Olimpia, best known for its flashy nightclubs and Vila Madalena and adjoining Pinheiros, fast becoming known for its trendier, slightly alternative scene.

Most of Sao Paulos districts can be explored on foot is aware of a high number of motorcyles, which is the biggest cause of pedestrian casualties in the city. It is advisable not to wear jewellery or carry valuables as it is a calling card for potential robbers.

Tourist attractions include the cathedral, the towns skyscrapers, the historical buildings and the shopping streets, malls, big companies, cultural institutions, some and restaurants. Outside these areas is the Ibirapuera Park, especially recommended for families with children.

In the Museum of Modern Art you will find a collection of works of art. This is a good museum for those who like art, they will find an excellent collection of pictures. People who do not like museums, will also enjoy the place, because this is a rather small museum that can be visited in half an hour. On the second floor you find the permanent collection; with pictures by Cezanne, Monet, Modigliani, Picasso, Rubens, Goya, Velazquez, Van Gogh and some medieval painters. On the first floor there are temporary exhibitions. The good thing is that because this is a small museum, you can admire the pictures without the crowds you see in other cities.