by Rebecca Carvalho

Created on: November 26, 2009   Last Updated: November 27, 2009

Founded by the Portuguese Crown in 1537, the Capital city of Pernambuco grew to become one of Brazil's largest metropolitan areas, and one of the most diverse regions in the country. If you want to explore South America's European, African, and Indigenous influences at the same time, you might consider travelling to Recife.

The Brazilian Venice, as it is known for the aesthetic impact of its rivers and bridges, has a mild tropical weather with two main seasons: a rainy season from June to August; and a non-oppressive Summer from December to the beginning of March. A cool constant breeze is felt throughout the year, and the presence of the Atlantic ocean and the city's main rivers (Capibaribe and Beberibe) help maintain the weather nice for outdoor activities.

Recife's diversity is reflected in its cuisine: From seafood dishes to manioc roots; from grilled meats to salad fruits containing pineapple, guava, and other tropical fruits; Recife provides dishes for the pickiest person. The 'recifense' cuisine is so diverse that every visitor and inhabitant will find it difficult to decide on a favorite dish.

Cosmopolitan Recife has tourism and entertainment options for every taste: Go shopping in one of the biggest malls in Latin America, 'Shopping Recife', but do not forget to buy typical condiments at Sao Jose Market, that so much resemble Cairo's Market. Admire Brennand's museum collections of medieval armors, and Aloisio Magalhaes' Museum of Modern Art. Take a walk in Old Recife, a colonial neighborhood home of the first Synagogue of the Americas. Then drive by Suape Harbor appreciating its many ships, and go all the way to Boa Viagem Beach to watch the sunset while drinking coconut water and eating acai ice-cream. Visit the nighclubs downtown, and rest at one of the numerous coastal hotels.

Recife is a good travel target every time of the year, though first-time visitor might consider: 1) February: When Carnaval is hosted, and Galo da Madrugada Parade invades downtown Recife. 2) June: Saint John's festivities point Recife's streets with bonfires, countryside decorations, balloons, and fireworks. 3) December: New Year's Eve celebrations bring fireworks shows at Boa Viagem beach, where people get together and party until late on January 1st. If you live overseas you best reach Recife by plane. After a 9-hour flight if you are coming from the U.S., with tickets bought 6 months in advance costing around $800 USD the round-trip, you will not regret the explosion of culture you will find.

Plan your travel, and enjoy your visit. Recife's people welcomes you at any time of the year, free from natural disasters and egocentric traits.

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