Fortaleza is one of the largest cities in Brazil and certainly one of the most vibrant. Temperatures range from C with rare exceptions. July - November has virtually no rain. February - May can have its share, but mostly at night. Fairly safe for a Brazilian city this size about 2,5 million [1] , but stay alert when wandering away from Beira Mar, especially after dark.
Despite being quite a party town, the carnival in Fortaleza is rather feeble, although growing bigger by the year, with the largest parades being Maracatu -style. The official history of Fortaleza as a permanent settlement dates back to the 17th century, when the Dutch had a brief dispute with the Portuguese over the territory.
Probably the most proudly remembered occasion of local history was the abolition of slavery in , four years ahead of Brazil as a whole. He eagerly discussed the origins of the people, languages and geographical names of the region. Most important in this context is the novel Iracema , with its renowned main character lending her name to several neighborhoods and inspiring statues around town.
The city is perhaps the most popular domestic package tour destination, and Europeans are following suit. Sadly, the latter comes with its share of holiday prostitution. Several municipal tourist information [2] offices around, the most convenient being at the airport , the Central Market and Beira Mar Half way between McDonald's and the fish market.
An extension of the same size should be ready by Services here include federal police , post office, health authorities , internet cafe, tourist information and travel agencies. Today's flights can be checked online [4]. Allow at least an hour for immigration control if you fly in from abroad.
