Exotic Culture and Beaches in Recife Brazil
Pernambuco Capital Has Latin Romance for a Holiday Getaway Vacation
Apr 28, 2009
Almost unknown to American travelers, the coast of Brazil’s State of Pernambuco offers everything that travelers look for. Here the sun seems to shine every day, and the refreshing rain comes as short showers that blow over in minutes. Its mixture of Portuguese, African and native cultures gives the city a unique ambiance.
Portuguese and African Roots
Recife was founded by the Portuguese early in the 16th century and quickly became rich as a sugar exporter. Captured by the Dutch in 1630, it returned to Portuguese empire, and played a leading role in the establishment of Brazil. Slavery was here in the beginning but the city lead the way in bringing it to an end in 1888. Always considered forward looking, Recife continues to lead, now as the capital of Pernambuco State and a major port city.
White Sand Beaches in the City
The fact that it is a port should not be a turn-off, because the water that surrounds it only adds to its scenic appeal by opening up long vistas. The south end of the city, known as Bairro Boa Viagem, faces onto some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. The Praia de Boa Viagem becomes the Praia de Piedade in Jaboatao, the next city south. The miles of soft white sand that borders them never seem busy or crowded, even though the beaches are right in the city. The warm waters here are perfect for swimming, and an offshore reef keeps breakers from being a nuisance.
Venice of Brazil
Recife has plenty to keep visitors interested. Divided into four parts by the Capibaribe and the Beberibe Rivers, it is known as the Venice of Brazil for the waterways slicing through it and for the graceful bridges that cross them. The Bairros (districts) of Santo Antonio and Sao Jose occupy one of the islands and the city center, Bairro do Recife, occupies another. The fourth section, Boa Vista, lies across the Rio Capibaribe from both of them. Most of the historic and cultural highlights of the city lie in these three bairros.
Boat tours of Recife Day and Night
One of the nicest ways to get a sense of the city is by water. Catamaran Tours has three catamaran boat tours a day (10am, 4 and 8pm) that travel the broad waterways that divide the city into its bairros. Wide and stable, the pontoon boats cruise through the lagoons and under beautifully designed bridges while a guide tells the story of the city. Let them know and they will include an English version. The evening cruise gives a completely new perspective on the city, which at night is reminiscent of St Petersburg Russia, for its rows of grand homes along the banks of the Rio Capibaribe. Recife is easy to get to. American Airlines has direct flights from Miami and good connections from all major U.S. cities. The fight also features Americans new lie-flat seats in both Business and First Class.
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