Orlando is positioning itself as a key destination for Brazilian travelers and is introducing major new features

What are Visit Orlando's expectations for participating in an event like WTM Latin America?

For us, Brazil is the most important market in Latin America. We closed 2023 with approximately 696,000 Brazilian visitors, and although we are still awaiting final year figures, the projections shared with us by operators are very positive.

Our presence here aims to further strengthen the sales tools for travel agents. We continue to promote the use of the Orlando Travel Academy, to which we are constantly adding new modules, such as outdoor adventures and youth programs.

Additionally, given the size and geographic diversity of the Brazilian market, we have added a second training manager to cover more cities and reach more travel agents with our training.

Orlando always has new things to offer. What's your take on the newest attractions?

Of course, Orlando never stops renewing itself. The big news right now is undoubtedly Universal Epic Universe, the new theme park at Universal Orlando Resort, scheduled to open in 2025, although its promotion has already begun in earnest. It will be the resort's fourth park and the first to open in over 25 years, with areas dedicated to Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon, Dark Universe, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

There's also news at SeaWorld Orlando, with the opening of "Penguin Trek," a family roller coaster that combines excitement with an educational experience in the world of penguins. And at Disney's Animal Kingdom, the former "It's Tough to be a Bug" attraction is being replaced with a new one based on Zootopia.

In addition, Walt Disney World Resort adds two spectacular nighttime parades:

At Magic Kingdom, "Disney Dreams That Soar" is coming, featuring music from films like Frozen, Peter Pan, and Encanto.

At Disney's Hollywood Studios, a parade featuring iconic villains like Maleficent, Cruella de Vil, and Captain Hook.

Are there other areas that are growing in Orlando besides family tourism and entertainment?

Absolutely. Orlando is establishing itself as a key destination for sports tourism. In June, the city will be one of the hosts of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, and although it won't be the official host city of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, many operators are planning to use Orlando as a logistics hub for visitors traveling to other tournament host cities.

Any other news highlights to close?

The new edition of the Michelin Guide for Florida will be released this week. Orlando already has 58 recognized restaurants, and six new award-winning establishments will be announced this Thursday, consolidating the city as a leading culinary destination in the U.S. alongside Miami and Tampa.