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Fortaleza

Filed under: Brazil General/ Fortaleza - December 4th, 2004

Brazilians refer to Fortaleza as “the city of light” for a good reason. Fortaleza is blessed with endless sun, sand, and coastlines that stretch for 573 kilometers. Fortaleza is an enchanting city with a population of about 2.2 million people. It’s the capital of the Northeastern State of Ceara and the fifth largest city in Brazil.

Access to Fortaleza.

Charter flights from a few European capitals to Fortaleza exist but if you live north of the equator it’s likely that you’ll have to make a connecting flight through Sao Paulo, Brasilia or Rio de Janeiro. This can be a frustrating experience because you end up having to fly pass your final destination before finally arriving in Fortaleza. This can add more hours to your flight but the inconvenience is worth every minute!

The day I stepped foot on Fortaleza I knew that I’d make this captivating city my home. It’s not difficult to fall in love with the topography and the people. The average temperate is 27 degrees Celsius thanks to the ever present wind which is harnessed to generate energy and pump scarce water. The windiest months run from July to January and this is the period when Fortaleza plays host to world kite and windsurfing events.

Fortaleza - “to experience list”

I’ve lived in Fortaleza since 1998 and during this time I’ve compiled a “must experience” list that I use to share with family and friends who visit me from around the world. The list has proven to be a smashing success and probably one you should use a reference when visiting Fortaleza.

1. There are more than 100 spectacular beaches but one worth visiting is Jericoacoara, rated as one of the top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world by “The Washington Post” magazine. It’s located about 5 hours from Fortaleza. This is definitely the place to visit if you’re interested in eco-tourism.
2. Rent a beach buggy and surf the endless white waves of sand dunes. There are experienced drivers who can guide you through the sand dunes for less than $10.
3. Tuesday night is famous for live Forro music. Most tourists flock to a night club called “Pirata” to get a taste of the local dance and music scene. Forro is similar to samba. To get into the rhythm, I suggest you order a Brazilian cocktail called Caipirinha. If you’re shy or tired, this mood enhancing cocktail will lift your spirits.
4. Eat Crab at Praia do Futuro (beach of the future). Locals typically visit this beach on Thursday were they’re guaranteed plenty of fresh crab at great prices. Round trip cab fee plus crab for two shouldn’t cost more than $30. Another popular place to try crab is at the “Beach Park hotel and resort.” The beach front setting is absolutely stunning and a great place to experience one of the most exciting water parks in Brazil.
5. Visit the old town center, otherwise known as “o centro.” You’ll discover great deals on just about anything, especially local art.
6. If you want to understand the heart and soul of Brazil, you’ll definitely have to take a stroll along Beira Mar, the beach front boardwalk that is bound to stimulate all your senses. The 3 kilometer stretch is packed with street vendors, singers, capoeira dancers, restaurants, fairs that sells local handicraft, and much more. The back drop of the sun setting or rising over the Atlantic Ocean combined with hundreds of coconut trees is an experience you can’t miss.
7. While walking along Beira Mar stop for a break and order a refreshing drink of coconut water served in the shell. Take pictures. Continue walking. Take another break and ask for an exotic energetic smoothie called Acai. Continue walking. Take another break and ask for a tropical berry juice called Guarana. At the end of the boardwalk you’ll encounter the most famous ice-cream store in Fortaleza which offers a choice of more than 35 delicious flavors. I can assure you’ll only recognize a hand full of flavors because most of them are exotic fruits or plants from the Amazon. Without a doubt, if you really want to experience the pulse of Brazil, walk along the Beira Mar strip, preferably late in the afternoon or evening.

About Me: My name is Thales Panagides and I’m happily married to a beautiful girl called Glauci. I was born in Ames-Iowa but grew up on the European island of Cyprus. The question is how does someone who was born in the United States but raised in Cyprus end up in Fortaleza - Brazil? The answer is a matter of interpretation. Some call it luck, others call it destiny, but I’m sure my dream of wanting to work from a beach front apartment has a lot to do with it. I currently represent Brazilian companies abroad and have the permission and complete authorization of my wife to represent Brazilian bikinis and lingerie manufacturers. When friends ask how I am doing, my only response to them is the fitting fairytale ending of, “and he lived happily ever after.” Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have about the city and while you’re at it, please check my site out at: http://www.brazilian-bikinis.net My email address is: thales@brazilian-bikinis.net