CMW Issue 140 January-February 2026 | Page 49

Brazil

one of the southern hemisphere’ s leading R & D centres.
It has over 20 higher education and research institutions. Universities Unicamp and PUC are ranked among the best in Brazil and LATAM and many of the academic venues offer state-of-the art meeting facilities.
The National Centre for Research in Energy & Materials, CNPEM, an advanced user-based research facility, is open to both the scientific community and private sector. CNPEM is home to Sirius, the only synchrotron light source in South America. The electron storage ring facility is used in the study of atomic, chemical, and electronic structure of materials in biology, materials science, and physics.
A further project is Orion, a complex that will house Latin America’ s first NB4 level biosafe laboratory, making it the only lab in the world combined with the fourth-generation synchrotron light source.
Other plans include( HIDS) the international Hub for Sustainable Development. A fourth-generation mixed use Smart Innovation District uniting major stakeholders.
A natural beauty A major draw of Campinas is the abundance of green. The city is dotted with parks and outdoor venues.
Cultural space, The Lake House, caters for events. Likewise, Campinas’ Ecological Park, a restored coffee plantation showcasing the city’ s rich history.
A 20-minute drive outside of the city brings you to the Campinas Botanical Garden, home to the largest collection of individual plant species in Latin America and an attractive setting for a corporate reception.
The city also has a good combination of accommodation from international brands to local chains.
The Royal Palm Complex’ four hotels include The Royal Palm Resort, a multi-purpose venue with 498
bedrooms, event space, gardens and extensive sports facilities. Adjacent is The Palms, a boutique hotel with modern facilities. Royal Palm Tower is upper midscale and the Contemporary Hotel, modern and functional has direct access to the Convention Centre.
In the centre, delegates will find international brands Radisson Red, and Melia Campinas, with 305-rooms and meeting space. Local brand, Vitoria Concept Hotel, has meeting facilities and its own Helipad. Other local brands include I am Design and Cassino Tower Hotel, part of Brazilian chain, Nacional Hotels, with 9 mid-tier properties across Campinas.
Brazil is well-known for its culinary scene and Campinas has a good selection of restaurants from rustic to high-end.
Estacao Marupiara can cater for groups. A few kilometres outside of Campinas, in the heart of the region’ s countryside, the venue blends charm, outdoor spaces, local art and Brazilian music.
Top: Campinas
Left: Maria Fumaça- Steam Train
Expect the unexpected In terms of group activities and incentives, Campinas and region have plenty to offer. Local towns Sousas and Joaquim offers a feel for the authentic Brazil.
Step back in time with a visit to a traditional Brazilian plantation, or‘ Fazenda’, as they are known locally. Incorporate an event or lively workshop on the art of gin-making at a former 19th Century coffee farm, fully renovated and now home to award-winning distillery, BEG Gin.
The Open Astronomy Museum,( MAAS), offers a memorable experience for delegates. Located in Pico das Cabras Park, the highest point in Campinas, the museum houses thousands of artefacts on astronomy, space and the solar system. Offering guided observations and talks, it can also be hired as a unique event venue.
Micro-roastery, Sitio Flo da Luna, producer of specialty organic coffee, invites visitors to learn about local culture, the history of coffee and sustainable practices in coffeeproduction. Guests can explore the farm and sample delicious home-made produce.
Other activities include a nostalgic ride on the Maria Fumaca steam train, the Smokey Mary. Or a visit to Holambra, a unique town, famous for its Dutch architecture, traditions and cuisine It’ s the largest flower producer in LATAM, with Expoflora, the international flower fair in September, drawing thousands of visitors.
Campos Almeida sums up.“ Campinas is a complete destination for MICE. We have modern facilities, professional service providers and knowhow. In brief, Campinas is an invitation to do business.” n
n Embratur is the official Brazilian Tourist Board. Meeting planners who want to learn more about MICE opportunities in Brazil can register with Brazil Travel Specialist, the official online training platform.
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