If there was ever a time for a poker player to mix business with pleasure, the Latin American Poker Tour Grand Final in São Paulo, Brazil, is the event to do so. It is taking place Feb. 17 through 20, colliding head on with the annual festivities of Brazilian Carnival, which is affectionately known to natives as the, "Greatest Show on Earth."
The Basics
Language: Portuguese
Currency: Brazilian Real. 1 BRL = 0.58 USD.
Visa: Citizens from the United States, Australia, and many other countries DO need Visas. Make sure to check Brazilsf.org to find out.
International Calling Code: +55
Weather: At this time of year, the average temperature is between 70-78 degrees Fahrenheit. Umbrellas are suggested since rain showers are frequent.
Tournament Information
Buy-in: R$3,700 (Approximately $2,146 USD)
Location: Sheraton WTC São Paulo
Schedule: February 17 - Day 1, February 18 - Day 2, February 19 - Day 3, February 20 - Final table.
Party: February 20 from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. at 'Museum' Dining Club.
Last Year's Winner: Alex Manzano (Defeated a field of 536 to win the top prize of R$615,840)
Getting There
For travelers who are flying in, it's the Guarulhos International Airport you want to land at. It's about a 50-minute drive from there to the location of the tournament, but depending on the notorious São Paulo traffic, it could be much longer. Scheduling a prepaid taxi is the most convenient option to get you to your destination.
Carnival
First-time Carnival goers should prepare for an all-sensory, unforgettable experience. The celebration in São Paulo includes massive organized parades, music, and of course, Samba dancing. Friday and Saturday (Feb. 17-18) are the main days of the São Paulo Carnival, and that's when the top Samba schools compete for the prestigious championship trophy in front of 30,000 spectators.
If you're looking to experience Carnival in a more calm, tame atmosphere, visiting a smaller, neighboring town of São Paulo is a great option including Sao Luis do Paraitinga and Sorocaba.
Other Fun Stuff
São Paulo is a multi-dimensional city with tons to offer in addition to its Carnival celebration. Not only is it the largest city in the Brazil, but it is also the largest city in the Southern Hemisphere and South America.
Head downtown to the city center to find a New York-like concrete jungle. The metropolis also houses many of the city's historical monuments, popular parks, and museums.
When you're done sightseeing, there are endless options for entertainment. If you have a weakness for animals, head to the Zoological Park of São Paulo. It is the largest zoo in Brazil with more than 3,200 animals.
For those who prefer sports, check the schedules for the three major São Paulo soccer teams: Corinthians, Palmeiras and São Paulo FC. Soccer, or football as its known in Brazil, is the country's most popular sport. (As a quick side note, Brazil is set to host the 2014 FIFA World Cup. )
But of course if you are held up playing the event, there's always time to check out the amazing sights and sounds of São Paulo after the tournament ends. If you can't make it out this year, you can follow the live coverage of this event on the PokerStars Blog beginning on February 17 at 12 p.m. local time.
