Fortaleza, the capital of Ceará in Northeast Brazil, might not be the best-known Brazilian tourist destination, but the city is still well worth seeking out. So much so that the travel publication Travel Noire claims it’s “the hidden gem in Brazil’s Northeast”.
Beyond the trodden tourist trail
When it comes to traveller highlights, Brazil certainly pulls the punches. Its carnival celebrations are second to none and Rio de Janeiro beaches rank among the world’s most iconic sands. However, to discover the best of the country, you need to go beyond the usual.
An article in Travel Noire in October proposes Fortaleza, the state capital of Ceará. The publication says one of Brazil’s treasures is Fortaleza and is “just waiting to be explored”. As a result, the city “should unquestionably be on your travel radar”.
The best of Fortaleza
For Travel Noire, Fortaleza’s greatest asset is its “exceptional blend of natural beauty and city life”. The highlights include:
“Stunning beaches”
The article praises Praia do Futuro for its white sands and “lively beach bars” and Praia de Iracema has the best views of the Fortaleza skyline. For those willing to travel outside the capital, “nearby gems” include Canoa Quebrada and Jericoacoara.
Cultural experiences
As well as exploring the famous beaches in Ceará, Travel Noire suggests visitors explore the region’s cultural scene. Fortaleza is the centre for the main events and festivals, which “showcase the local music and dance culture”.
Nightlife
Fortaleza has a vibrant nightclub scene, “buzzing with energy and life”. Travel Noire recommends checking out one of the dance clubs with local genres like axé and forró. “Locals know how to keep the party going,” says the article.
Gastronomy
According to the article, Ceará cuisine is “a vibrant tapestry of flavours and influences”. It highlights fresh seafood and the regional dish, acarajé, with shrimp.
Also top for retirement
In recent years, Fortaleza has increasingly appeared on the relocation radar and earlier this year, it topped the list of best retirement destinations in Brazil. Insider Monkey ranked the city top because of its “classy beachfront lifestyle, rich culture and high quality of life”.
Furthermore, US News rated Fortaleza the second best place to retire in Latin America, second only to Cuenca. Both rankings highlight the affordability of this capital in Northeast Brazil, also a hotspot for property in Brazil. And Travel Noire points out, “this gem in Brazil never fails to impress”.
(Source: Travel Noire)
