Crisscrossed by rivers, canals and bridges, Recife is known as the “Venice of Brazil”. It is the capital for the state of Pernambuco and one of the largest cities in Brazil, with over 1.5 million people. Recife was founded in 1534 by the Portuguese and has a very unique history. The short version, the contact between the native Indians, black slaves and the Portuguese settlers was longstanding due to the sugarcane industry in this state which left behind visible traces of the culture in the region today. There is also evidence of the Dutch influence who occupied this region for some 20 years. Today, Recife is an inviting open air museum and an interesting mix of a modern metropolis, colonial settlement and tropical beach resort. Recife has something to offer everyone, charming colonial buildings alongside modern skyscrapers, historically significant churches and synagogues and emerald green waters palm-lined beaches. Recife is home to the longest beach in Brazil at 8 kms.
When we were here last year it was a bit crazy, with Carnival going in full swing and the fear of pickpockets driven into us that we did not wander far. We knew this city had much to offer so this time around we joined a Cruise Critic tour, so with about 18 of us, we jumped into our waiting brand new van for our 6 and half hour adventure. I will say at this point, in that this is our second experience with the DoItRightBrazil tour group, this is the way to go - very professional, great guides with a exceptional eye for detail, well taken care of. We started out with a great drive over view of Recife, past point zero (the beginning of the city), then past the Five Points Fortress, all located in the in the old neighbourhood. We also drove past the Republic Square, Govenor’s House, Santa Isabel Theatre and the Palace of Justice before heading over to the longest beach in all of Brazil, the 5 mile Beach. We enjoyed a good 20 or so minutes walking on the beach and some of us even walked into the 30 degree (celsius) water, wow just spectacular. From here we drove over to the UNESCO World Heritage site of the district of Olinda. This town features beautiful pastel coloured stucco buildings with intricately carved doors. Many of the quaint houses are adorned with delicate balconies which overlook the narrow streets. We then visited Olinda’s main square, the Alto da Se lies on the crest of the town’s highest hill. We also had a chance to visit the Gold leaf alter of The Se Cathedral. It was then back to Recife to view the two puppet museums, one with regular sized puppets and with massive larger that life puppets that they use in Carnival. We had time for lunch at one of the many restaurants in the neighbourhood of the puppet museums, very nice and friendly people with very reasonable prices. We also had a chance to visit the main Synagogue before returning to point zero and another great handicraft store. A great day indeed, thank you to our guide and driver from DoItRightBrazil.
Great sail away and dinner tonight before being entertained by the very talented singers and dancers in board. A few pics of our day, hope you enjoy…
BTW - One of our fellow passengers did have a handmade gold necklace ripped off his neck today, so you do need to be cautious and on guard here. Yes, we were all warned, so I am thinking that he just forgot that he had it on as he may have never taken it off. He is okay but sad to hear that he lost this nice piece of jewellery.
Quote of the day - “Until we get equality in education, we won’t have an equal society.” - Sonia Sotomayor
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