Porto Alegre is one of Brazil’s main cities, and the capital city of Rio Grande do Sul state.

This city is located in the junction of five rivers such as the Guaíba River (which is a lake in fact), a continuation of Jacuí River before it flows into the Lagoa dos Patos (Lagoon of the Ducks), among others.

Porto Alegre is an important industrial centre in the south area of Brazil. Since it is located near Buenos Aires and Montevideo cities, Porto Alegre is placed at a strategic point within the MERCOSUR.

According to the 2005 Census, this city has a total population of more than 1,428,696. Natives of the state are known as “gaúchos” and the most typical dish is “churrasco” (barbecued meat). Also, this city is famous for the “chimarrão” (strong and hot tea prepared from yerba mate).

The I World Social Forum, an international event where social issues of today’s world are discussed, took place in this city. This event was held in Porto Alegre in 2002, 2003 and 2005 as well.

Important Brazilian universities are located here. For example, the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul.

Through Reservas.net it is possible to make reservations by phone or on-line for accommodation in Huts, Hotels, Apartments, Apart-Hotels or Resorts located in different spots of the city.

In order to experience an enjoyable and pleasant stay near your area of interest a hotel downtown Porto Alegre can be booked, or in different areas of the city.

According to the facts presented by the UN and the Institute of Applied Economic Research (IPEA) in 2001, Porto Alegre is the city with the Highest Human Development Index rating in Brazil.

A number of conservation programmes have been established here to protect native trees. Many of the city’s avenues have been planted with different tree species. One striking example of this is Teresópolis Avenue, where bottle trees have been planted.

The city is covered in green vegetation and Lapacho and Jacaranda are the main species that can be found here. The trees from the hills are protected. However, they face the problems of invasions and unlawful occupations.

Two environmental conservation areas can be found in this city: "Delta do Jacuí" (Jacuí Delta) State Park and Lami Biological Reserve. A paradise on earth.

A wide range of cultural events are held in Porto Alegre. In addition to the traditional celebrations, a wide variety of activities are organized at Porto Alegre during the different seasons.

During the summer, for example, the “Porto Verão Alegre” takes place in this city. This celebration consists of a number of performances and exhibitions. In 2005 about seventy plays could be enjoyed.

At several occasions (in the summer 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2005) the World Social Forum has been hosted in Porto Alegre. This event gathered more than 100,000 people from more than 100 countries each year. The main aim of these meetings is to discuss and deal with social issues.

There are a large number of possibilities regarding recreation, fun and relax in Porto Alegre. The places and activities that can be found here cater for all tastes, from nature and art lovers to those who enjoy getting the adrenalin going.

One of the major attractions here is to wander along the city center on a Saturday morning, enjoying the peace that can hardly be found during the weekdays.

The high quality of life is one of the city’s main features. Here tourists and residents will find an excellent urban infrastructure, telecommunications and excellent medical service.

Many possibilities regarding ecological tourism and rural holidays are offered here as well. Moreover, a wide range of cultural events are held here and tourists can be taken on city tours.