Coverage in SADJ
LAAD 2009
LAAD 2011
Location
Riocentro
Av. Salvador Allende, 6555, Barra da Tijuca
Rio de Janeiro – RJ – Brazil
Website
www.laadexpo.com
Contact
Clarion Events
Al. Santos, 2441 – 9 andar
01419-101 São Paulo, SP, Brasil
+ 55 (11) 3893 1300
Next Show
LAAD Defense & Security, 4-7 April, 2017
Focus
Defense and Security with a focus on Army, Navy, and Air Force. There were many police and special police units in attendance.
Dress
Business casual and up, preferably in fabrics that breathe. Keep in mind that the temperature will be approximately +70-80º F (21-27° C) and up, and it will be very humid. Check the weather before you go.
Hotel Hints
Stay in Barra da Tijuca, if you can. If you want to stay in Rio, be prepared for at least an hour commute to the show, and we suggest you stay in Ipanema or Leblon. Rio de Janeiro has a lot of favelas (slums, many of which are plagued by gang violence) so be very careful where you book your hotel. Go to www.tripadvisor.com for hotel user reviews and ratings.
Show Food
There are plenty of café/restaurants around the outsides of the show floor, serving small slices of pizza, sandwiches, and pastas. Several local type restaurants are across the street behind Building 3- Gate H. After the show, try Porcao, a rodizio, and the Esplanada Grill in Ipanema is excellent as well.
Power & Plug Types
This varies depending upon your hotel. Be prepared for 110 V and 220 V, 60 hZ. Plug types A, B, and C are possibilities- European two prong, U.S. two or three prong.
Cultural Hints
Portuguese is the official language of Brazil and it is helpful to know a few phrases. English speakers are rare, Spanish and Italian will help you get by. There is no need to dress up; Rio is a very informal city. Security is a major concern, so be alert and do research on the area surrounding your accommodations. Rio de Janeiro itself has a lot of muggings, so at night we suggest you take a taxi no matter how small the distance involved. Do not take a taxi unless it is metered.
Tipping
10% is a good number to remember for tipping if you receive good service, round-up taxis, 1-2 Reis per bag for porters/bellhops.
Currency
Brazilian Real (BRL) called the “Reis” (Re-is). At press time, the BRL was equivalent to $0.60, €0.43, ₤0.37, and ¥49. Go to www.xe.com to find current exchange rates. Other than major expenses like hotels and car rentals, try to pay cash if possible.
Getting around
Fly into Rio de Janeiro International Airport (GIG). Take only metered taxis. It is worth the extra money to hire a private driver to and from the airport. Arrange this beforehand through your hotel. Get a hotel card to show taxi drivers for return, and have the Concierge give you a card with destinations in Portuguese to help. There will be taxis scalping outside the show – example – from the Sheraton Barra (“Baha” in Portuguese) to Riocentro (the show) is about 35 Reis. For returns many exhibitors were told 50 Reis, then by the second night, Taxis were demanding 100 to 150 Reis! You can arrange pick up at the show with your hotel for a better rate.
Military Museums
Military Museum of Rio de Janeiro.
Tourism
U.S. citizens must obtain a visa before going to Brazil. Check for your own country’s entry/exit requirements here: www.brasil.gov.br/ingles/visiting_brazil/. The most famous sights in Rio de Janeiro are the Christ statue on Corcovado (Cristo Redentor) and Sugar Loaf Mountain. We recommend using a reputable organized tour company. Try www.riodejaneiro.com.