Then there are what are called “condomínio fechado”, gated housing complexes. Since they are gated, residents register beforehand and are checked in and out of the housing complex. Visitors are also carefully checked at the gate, showing their IDs and recording photos of their faces. In this article, I thought I’d tell you about this type of housing complex. “Gated housing complexes” is a long name, so I’ll just put "condominiums".
The very first condominium built in Brazil was “Terras de São José” in Itu City, in the outskirts of São Paulo, about 100 km away. It’s an ultra-luxurious condominium where 900 mansions were built, it’s surrounded by nature, and has 24-hour security, which gives the residents a sense of security. In terms of sports, there are 20 tennis courts, a volleyball court, a beach volleyball court, a soccer field, a swimming pool, a golf course, and so on. Inside the condominium, there are also cafes, restaurants, as well as convenience stores. While some people live in this condominium, many others use it as a vacation home.
There has been an increase in the number of condominiums of various sizes in a range of different places since the late 1970s. The reason for this is that they have 24-hour security. Having a sense of security in your everyday life is important. Having a variety of activities available on the premises is also an advantage, so families with children and older couples like them. Having plenty of greenery is also a plus. And many people also consider them as a real estate investment. They are just the thing for people who want to spend a relaxing time away from hectic big city living.
The problem that arises with the increase in condominiums is the impact on the environment. Cutting down trees to clear land for their construction has become a problem.
The other day I visited a couple who are friends and live in a condominium. The condominium is in the outskirts of São Paulo, an hour and a half by car. The house is 2 stories with 3 bedrooms, a large living room with lots of windows, and a large garden in the back. Unlike the noise I am so used to in the big city, there was hardly any car noise and I could hear plenty of birds chirping. They grow the plants and flowers they like in the garden, and they use a part of it for vegetables and so on. The lawn in the garden was also nicely kept. It’s a good environment for body and mind, I thought. They want for nothing, with plenty of stores now that deliver, like supermarkets, restaurants, pharmacies, and so on. But, my friend said they need their own car to go anywhere. She also said that sometimes there are problems with some residents not following the condominium rules and regulations, but it’s not as though such problems occur often.
It was really worthwhile spending the afternoon talking, relaxing, and having tea in the garden.
While living in a house in a country with good public safety would give you peace of mind, when it comes to living in a big city in Brazil, security is particularly important, so living in a condominium may be a good option.
