With years of experience coordinating events in Brazil, Alejandra Cumbrera, partner and event planner at ELA Connection, a corporate event-planning agency based in New York City, knows a thing or two about business etiquette in South America’s largest nation. Here, she shares some of her most important tips.
- Keep in mind that Brazilians have a more relaxed approach to time and schedule adherence, so plan accordingly.
- Depending on the audience, it may not be customary for locals to register and RSVP for an event via the Internet.
- Remember the holidays. Summer vacations are in January and February.
- Security is a concern when taking international clients or staff to Brazil. It’s important to take security measures like suggesting that attendees register with the U.S. State Department Smart Traveler Enrollment Program and with their embassies. Distribute a security briefing (do’s and don’ts) to international attendees.
- Due to the high demand for events and business travel, it’s better to book venues as far in advance as possible, but keep in mind that most venues require a contract to book the meeting space.
- When working with non-hotel venues or other type of vendors, a proposal or even a confirmation email is the only binding document in the agreement.
- Visas are required for all U.S. and Canadian citizens.
