• Rio has never been so safe. Exactly because the police invaded the favelas there is a new spirit in the air. This process of slums pacification has been going on already for two years. Only when they had spectacular pictures it got into the international media. Today we are inviting you for a beer in the favela while enjoying the stunning view.

• The land slides were devastating, not a doubt. Would you believe that we had sunny beach weather in Rio at the time? Would you cancel your trip to Paris because there was a mud slide in a camping in the south of France? (toc toc toc :-).

Click here to view statistics published by O Globo 1st of Feb (numbers are record down of past 20 years, compared to last year all about -20%)

The new group, to be known as LATAM Airlines Group. Each airline within the group would maintain its current headquarters in Santiago and Sao Paulo.They would be among the leading airline groups in the world in terms of size, profitability and market reach.

Any further information about this transaction: www.latamairlines.com.

BIT will be at the following fairs and it will be a pleasure to welcome you at our desk:
BIT, Milano 17-20 Feb 11
ITB, Berlin 9-12 Mar 11
IMEX, Frankfurt, 24-26 May 11

After three years of restoration and repair, the Hotel Santa Teresa, located at the heart of the historic Santa Teresa District, reopens its doors. The neo-colonial style of the mansion was carefully preserved by their french owners. The hotel, planted between patios, gardens and terraces, has 44 personalized rooms. Furniture and special pieces from Brazilian artists and designers show the strong Brazilian flavor of the interior design. A five-star-efficient staff with more than 50 employees looks after the well being of each guest and the exclusivity in the service. A generous pool overlooking the Guanabara Bay, offers at nightfall the magnificent sunset over the Petrópolis Mountains. In the gardens and tropical patios, toucans, parrots and monkeys are oftenly seen guests. The gastronomic restaurant, Térèze, with a view over the roofs of Santa Teresa and the Guanabara Bay, offers contemporary cuisine served under the arches of the suspended garden. Events of up to 50 participants are possible in a 70sqm high ceiling room open to a wooden deck over viewing the Santa Teresa hills.

Brazil Specialists know how difficult it can be to book domestic flights. B.I.T.'s clients can now use an amazing new tool. With a quick log-in and password you can book your Brazilian flights on-line and real-time, while at the same time making the seat reservations and sending your travellers an E-mail with their electronic tickets. Later we send you the invoice together with the other local services. Could it be more practical for you?