So here is a brief guide as to what to expect from 6 of the cities that will have the excitement and honour of being a host during the next World Cup:
Belo Horizonte
Stadium: Mineirão
Planned capacity: 69,950
Information: Translated literally as ‘Beautiful Horizon’, Belo Horizonte is state capital of Minas Gerais and is the third largest metropolis in the country. Located in the southeast of the country, Belo Horizonte is also known as ‘Beagá’, ‘Belô’, or ‘BH’ (the Portuguese pronunciation, of course!) and was first settled in back in the early 1700s. The city is comprised of a pleasant mix of both classical and modern architecture and has seen heavy investment in urban regeneration and food programmes, which have won international plaudits.Belo Horizonte is constructed atop several sizable hills and is surrounded entirely by mountains. There are several large parks and a nature reserve in the vicinity, so fans of wildlife and the outdoors will not be short on activities if a break from the football is needed!
Brasília
Stadium: Estádio Nacional de Brasília
Planned capacity: 71,500
Information: This city has the honour of being the capital of Brazil. It is the fourth largest city in the country and is located in the Central-West region. Viewed from above, the city is designed to resemble an aeroplane, or butterfly, thanks to the redevelopment it underwent in 1956. It is also home to one of Brazil’s primary airports, which will certainly help those travelling for the World Cup.
Cuiabá
Stadium: Arena Pantanal
Planned capacity: 42,500
Information: Located in central South America, Cuiabá (reported to mean ‘arrow-fishing’) is Mato Grosso’s state capital. It is home to the new Marechal Rondon International Airport, which is perfect for domestic and some international flights.
Curitiba
Stadium: Arena da Baixada
Planned capacity: 41,375
Information: Recently awarded the title of ‘Best Place To Live In Brazil’ by Reader’s Digest, Curitiba is the state capital of Paraná and is regarded is one of the most significant economic as well as cultural areas in the country. It located approximately 65 miles outside of the port of Paranaguá and has two airports, making it perfect for sports travel.
Fortaleza
Stadium: Castelão
Planned capacity: 66,700
Information: Located in North-eastern Brazil, Fortaleza is the state capital of Ceará. It is the fifth largest Brazilian city, with a population of over 2.5 million. The Atlantic Ocean is to the north of the city and the area is known for its regional seafood.
Tourists arriving for the World Cup should be aware that although there is an airport (Fortaleza International Airport) the road traffic in the area has become increasing problematic and traffic jams are common, as well as accidents due to the many potholes.
Manaus
Stadium: Arena da Amazônia
Planned capacity: 50,000
Information: Known as ‘mother of the gods’, Manaus is located in northern Brazil and is the state capital of Amazonas. Unsurprisingly, it is located on the Amazon River, at the point it joins with the river Negro. In recent years, Manaus has become popular with eco-tourists due to its location next to the Amazon rainforest. This has helped to transform the port area of the city into a bustling cosmopolitan area. With its plentiful wildlife and boat trips into the jungle, it is perhaps not the most obvious choice for sports event travel, but with the arrival of the World Cup, this may soon change.