Fortaleza

Due to it's proximity to the equator, Fortaleza is a city that gets up early in the morning! From dawn (around 5 a.m.) its seafront is filled with joggers taking their morning run (or a brisk walk for the less energetic).

This is invariably followed by a cold or hot drink containing a spoonful of Guarana - a plant extract containing caffeine, often added to energy drinks. Guarana is a weight loss and health supplement, usually taken as an alternative to our morning coffee or tea. Suitably refreshed, the city begins its working day.

A bustling patchwork, Fortaleza reminds you of Bangkok, Casablanca, London and Madrid all rolled into one! There is a high level of street commerce including tourist items, refreshments, textiles and ornaments which runs through until the evening - culminating in a bustling night market. Meanwhile the usual shops and businesses you would find in any major city operate during office hours (08:00 - 12:00, 14:00 - 18:00).

Many highstreet names are recognisable: C&A, Blockbuster Video, Pizza Hut and, of course, McDonalds - to name but a few - underlining the obvious European and U.S. influences. Over the years, Fortaleza has developed an impressive skyline with hundreds of high-rise blocks (often over 20 storeys) to accommodate its rising population (around 2.5 million).

First discovered in 1500 by the Spanish, Fortaleza became a Dutch colony in 1649. The Dutch were later expelled by the Portuguese and the rest, as they say, is history. Today, Fortaleza is the 5th largest city of Brazil and is the state capital of Ceará As such the city is well connected with the rest of the world. The most frequent direct flights to Fortaleza are from Madrid (7 hours) and Lisbon (6 hours). As a holiday destination, the city boasts a multitude of activities. The fabulous beaches are, of course, the main attraction.

The average temperature hovers around 27ºC for most of the year - with its proximity to the equator it is summer every day of the year - they estimate the town gets 3000 hours of sunshine annually. For those looking for something other than sun-worship, the town's shopping is legendary.

For adventurers there are 2 water parks on the outskirts of town plus every conceivable summer sporting activity. Prices for goods and services in Fortaleza tend to be less than half those of northern Europe.

Shops are obliged to display their pricing, however haggling with street vendors is a must. Fortaleza is the most popular tourist destination in Brazil. International tourism to Fortaleza has grown by nearly 500% in the last 8 years.

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