travel tips | florianópolis (eng.)

TRAVEL TIPS

OVERVIEW ATTRACTIONSTRANSPORTATION SHOPPING WHERE TO STAY WHERE TO EAT

Boasting over 100 beaches, Florianópolis is ca-pable of gathering natural beauties, an exube-rant preserved heritage, in addition of offering several sports and leisure options for all ages. All the above comes along with a major city infrastructure, after all, it is the capital of the State of Santa Catarina, located in the southern region of Brazil. Known as the Island of Magic, it comprises around 470 thousand inhabitants and is one of the capital with greater Human Development Index (HDI) in the country.

Florianópolis offers attractions for the who-le family, with options ranging from quieter to carrying a high rate of excitement for children, or more hectic alternatives that are pumped up with adrenaline for groups of friends looking

for fun. The Island of Magic is the perfect des-tination! In its 436,5 km², Floripa , cuddly nick-name given by locals for the city, the visitor can enjoy paradisiacal beaches, lagoons, dunes, treks within the Atlantic Rainforest, colonial ar-chitecture houses, archaeological sites, intense nightlife and delightful restaurants.

The first inhabitants of the island were the na-tive indians Tupi-guarani. Until these days, it is possible to see records of their presence in mi-dden and the city’s archaeological sites. Encou-raged by the Portuguese, the capital was co-lonized by Azorean immigrants, who also left their records in places in which they settled such as Ribeirão da Ilha, Santo Antônio de Lis-boa and in the Old Town of Florianopolis (Cen-

OVERVIEW

DUFRY TRAVEL TIPSFLORIANÓPOLIS

tro Histórico).

The capital of Santa Catarina is the radical sports paradise: paragliding, hang-gliding, sand board, surf and many more. Those who love these sports must visit the east coast beaches, mainly Joaquina and Mole, known as surfers’ territory. The exuberant Lagoa da Conceição, on the other hand, is usually a point for kite surfers, wind sailers and windsurfers.

Campeche Island, in the southwestern part of Floripa, has diving and archaeological sites, and many treks. The northern region is quite busy during high season, offering schooner and ba-nana boat rides, along with kayak rentals.

The official language is Portuguese, but the vi-sitor will also be able to communicate in En-glish somewhat easily, depending on the place. In addition, by virtue of the proximity with the South American neighboring countries, mainly Argentina, Spanish is a language that is largely spoken in places visited mostly by tourists.

In Florianópolis, the seasons are well defined. Summer (December to March) is hot and the rains are usual, temperatures vary betwe-en 24ºC and 28ºC. During these months, as in most of the south and southeast regions, rains are more frequent, but not in a way to disrupt the trip.

As in good part of tourist destinations in Brazil, the best time to travel is during the summer .

At that season, the waters of Floripa beaches are at a pleasant temperature. However, from December to the end of January, the city recei-ves many tourists and there are usually traffic jams when leaving the beaches. To avoid the hassle and enjoy the sea with pleasant tempe-ratures, the ideal is to travel between February and March.

Those who enjoy milder temperatures, the more recommended season for visiting Flo-ripa is during Autumn (March to June). In this season, they usually vary between 18 ºC and 27ºC. During the first hours of the day and ni-ght, fogs are common due to high air humidi-ty. The southern wind, common in the area, is more frequent in such season.

During the winter (June to September) , the average temperature is 17ºC. For those tra-veling in this period, get ready to face cooler temperatures and bring a coat, for the tempe-ratures are mild and cause the thermal sen-sation to drop. The island of Santa Catarina is the third coldest capital of Brazil, only staying behind of Curitiba, in the state of Paraná, and Porto Alegre, in Rio Grande do Sul.

The weather is more pleasant in early spring (September to December) . With the elevation of the temperature, which varies between 16ºC and 25ºC, the city becomes the ideal for a ple-asant stroll outdoors. Even though the rainfall volume increases in relation to the winter sea-son, there are long drought periods. From Sep-tember on, the climate gets hotter.

Although at first sight it sems small, Florianó-polis is an big island: 54 km from north to sou-th. Due to its territorial dimensions, the best way to get around is by car. For being an is-land, even though it is connected to the main-land by bridges, many times the city does not support the large flow of vehicles and traffic jams are a routine, especially during summer, the highest season.

CarIs the best option for getting around the island. There are multiple car rental locations, inclu-ding in the departure of the Hercílio Luz Inter-national Airport. The streets are typically well maintained and signalized, with indicative pla-

TRANSPORTATION


tes, although the access to some beaches is a little more precarious.

BusAs the city has no subway, buses are an op-tion for those who are on budget. With an In-tegrated Transport System, the user can tra-vel in two buses for the price of one. In order to obtain this advantage, the traveler must go to one of the six Integration Terminals, in busi-ness hours, and request a bus transport card. It is possible to purchase the required amount of credits in accordance with the trips that will be made. Those who choose to pay the fare in cash have to spend more and are only allowed to use one transportation. The disadvantage of this type of transportation is that you might wait longer periods at the bus stops, and they

do not have access to all the city’s beaches.

TaxiDue to the island s extension, the taxi fares tend to be not that cheap. Considering the tra-ffic, the amounts get even higher, therefore, not giving you a good cost-benefit ratio. Ta-xis are a good option when you go for shorter distances.

Bikesa good option to get around by the southern part of the island. There are local bike rentals and the rides last approximately 5h. A guide accompanies the visitors, and some companies offer electric bikes and support cars, in case the tourist gets tired of riding or experiences any issues.

DuFrY TraVeL TiPsFLORIANÓPOLIS

The 100 beaches on the Island of Magic have paradisiac scenarios that enchant any tou-rist. But, beyond them, Florianópolis has many other leisure options. From north to south of the island, there are plenty of attractions: ra-dical sports, ecotourism, cultural or historical tourism.

In the northern region, tourists will find tra-cks, schooners, banana boat, kayak rentals and diving. The most known beaches are Ca-nasvieiras, Cachoeira do Bom Jesus, Lagoinha and Ponta das Canas . Famous for its festivi-ties, in Jurere Internacional, on the left side of Jurerê beach, there are several nightclubs with

electronic music, and the nightlife is fueled by sparkling wine, transitioning into the dawn. With luxurious residences and a parade of ex-pensive cars, it is the right destination for mo-dels and celebrities.

If you want to know the cultural roots of the city, the ideal is to visit the southwestern area of the island. In addition to the beautiful colo-nial buildings, Freguesia do Ribeirão da Ilha is also known for having restaurants serving deli-cious oysters and seafood dishes.

The southeastern area counts on Ilha do Cam-peche, one of the most beautiful locations of Florianópolis. Beyond the clear water sea, the visitor will also find several diving spots, ar-cheological sites and several treks, such as the famous Lagoinha do Norte. Those who

ATTRACTIONS


like to surf should visit Pico do Surf, where lo-cal championships take place, and Riozinho do Campeche , known by its good music and partying.

Although the surfing locations are scattered throughout the island, their favorite is closer to the city center. Mole and Joaquina beaches ter-ritories ‘infested’ by boards: where several in-ternational surf championships are held. At Joa-quina beach, the visitor finds huge sand dunes and can rent sandboards. At Mole beach, there is a hill that serves as a takeoff ramp for free flight.

Another place that deserves a visit is Santo Antônio de Lisboa. In addition to knowing the history of the region, the tourist finds good gastronomy and incredible landscapes. With a charming view, is ideal to relax in a late after-

noon. During carnival, it houses open rehear-sals of carnival blocks. The Old Town is also lo-vely. A refuge for hotter days, Praça XV de No-vembro is the home of a centenarian Fig Tree, impressive due to its size. The Public Market is another attraction, with various food and typi-cal products of the region.

The boat ride beneath Hercílio Luz bridge, the city main post card, is a must-do. During appro-ximately six hours, it goes by Baía dos Golfi-nhos and stops by the Fortaleza de Santa Cruz (Anhatomirim) and Fortaleza de Santo Antônio de Ratones, built by the Portuguese in the 18th century. Near the bridge there is also Forte de Santana, where the Museu das Armas Major Lara Ribas is located, where you can visit with no admission fees.

DuFrY TraVeL TiPsFLORIANÓPOLIS

A very interesting activity to make with chil-dren is to visit Tamar Project . Located in Bar-ra da Lagoa , the tanks show the turtles in va-rious stages of life and the instructors teach visitors how to care for preserving the species. From there, it is possible to cross to Costa da Lagoa, an isolated village within Lagoa da Con-ceição, accessible only by boat or trek, which lasts approximately 1h. With several restau-rants and a bucolic atmosphere, the tour is a must.

A trip to Florianópolis is not complete if visitors miss to purchase a lace garment, or a souvenir in clay or ceramics. The handicraft is present in the island, and the state of Santa Catarina is considered one of the most important expor-ters of ceramics in Brazil.

On Saturdays and Sundays, a fair in the Praça Benedict Silverio, in Lagoa da Conceição, ga-thers dozens of artisans who make beautiful pieces. Traditional throughout the state, the bil-ro lace, the confection of handloom fabrics and the straw baskets can be found at the fair.

In Lagoa da Barra, the visitor may find a num-ber of women making handmade laces; they are called rendeiras (lacemakers). They sell ta-blecloths, shirts, dresses and ribbons with deli-cate drawings made with wires in one or more colors.

In the Feirinha de Artesanato São José, whi-ch exists since 2008, embroidery, handcrafted soap, plants, arts with paper, among others can

SHOPPING

be found. The fair is organized by the associa-tion, formed by the local artisans themselves.

Located in a 19th century mansion, the Casa da Alfândega houses a handicraft gallery for exhi-biting and selling the works. There, the tourist will find dolls, sculptures, paintings, miniatures, souvenirs, toys, clay or ceramics utensils. Tho-se delicate and gorgeous works are a great op-tions for souvenirs for friends and family.

Another ideal location for shopping in Floria-nópolis is the Mercado Público. Considered one of the main tourist attractions of the city, it has great historical and cultural relevance, whe-re it is possible to know the habits of the pe-ople that dwelt in Floripa. Divided into various wings, products are found as varied as sho-es, fishing accessories, canned goods and clo-thes. In addition to a great variety of baskets, hats, boxes and luminaires made out of natural wool, wicker, vines and palm trees fibers.

The picturesque Santo Antônio de Lisboa, a village built by the Azorean immigrants, pre-serves a colonial mansion from the 17th cen-tury called Azorean House (Casa Açoriana). In addition to the Cultural Center, is also a great place to buy different handicrafts. The villa also houses Feirinha de Santo Antônio de Lisboa, better known as the Feira das Alfaias. Located in Roldão de Rocha Pires Square, there you can buy pictures from artists from the area, books, crochet, costume jewelry, mirrors, clothing, fur-niture, wooden objects and products related to the Azorean culture.

CurrenCYThe local currency is the Real, represented by R$2, R$5, R$10, R$20, R$50 and R$100 bills and


5, 10, 25, 50 cents and R$ 1 coins. Due to being a capital, the tourist has no struggles in finding banks and exchange houses for foreign cur-rencies exchange. Most commercial establish-ments accept both currencies, as well as credit and debit card. On the beaches and local fairs, it is recommended that you take cash.

The tourists will find the most different lodging options on the Island of Magic: For travels with family, friends or even for those traveling alo-ne. By virtue of being is a popular destination, especially in the summer, the tip to avoid long trips is to choose a place that should be the most visited and staying near it.

Downtown: Due to the large hotel chain and strategic location, staying downtown is a good option for business travelers or for tourists who want to get the most from the beaches that Florianópolis has to offer. Those who want to explore the continental coast and visit pla-ces such as Balneário Camboriú, for example, should also seek for lodgings in this region. The best Hotels are in the Northern Sea Side. A litt-le further away from there, there are also ho-tels with cheaper rates.

Lagoa da Conceição : excellent location for tho-se who want to be close to the centralized be-aches and enjoy the sizzling nightlife of Floripa. The area has simple and basic inns and hotels, but very comfortable and with a good cost-be-nefit ratio. Some of them offer a more interes-ting logistics for those traveling by car.

Jurerê beach: those searching for comfort and luxury will appreciate the lodging options in Jurerê. With very welcoming and beautiful re-sorts and inns, it is possible to wake up only a few meters from the sea. Near the commercial part of Jurerê, there are options for those who are on budget. This location is also a great op-tion for those who want to enjoy the agitated night parties of Jurerê Internacional, located ri-ght next door.

Praia da Daniela: a little farther away from Ju-rerê, about 5km, at Praia Daniela you can enjoy the rattle and party with lodging at cheaper prices.

Praia da Lagoinha: Great location for anyo-ne traveling with the family. The quieter and warm waters here are ideal for children. There, tourists will find a great variety of typical bea-ch hotels and inns.

Praia dos Ingleses: Another lodging option for family trips and for those who want to en-joy the charm of the Island of Magic as a quiet village. There is a small center with restau-rants serving cheaper dishes and many travel agencies that offer tours departuring from the beach.

The only municipality in Brazil granted with the title of UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Florianó-polis offers a diversified cuisine, but its main feature is seafood. Considered the largest oys-ters producing city in Brazil, the cultivation of molluscs as well as fishing and shrimp, began with the arrival of the first Europeans.

WHERE TO STAY

WHERE TO EAT

Installed in Santo Antônio of Lisbon , the colo-nizers have made the region a reference in se-afood gastronomy. With dozens of restaurants and bars, the Sol Poente Gastronomic Route houses several establishments serving delica-cies from the sea, such as fish, shrimps and oc-topus, besides oysters.

Shrimp enthusiasts must go to Lagoa da Con-ceição. A meeting point for all cultures and tas-tes, the neighborhood in downtown Floripa is full of shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs with live music. In these restaurants, the main dish is the shrimp: there are rodízios (all you can eat - known as shrimp sequence) in which this particular seafood is served steamed, fried, breaded, and garlic and oil. An endless variety, which can also be found in the main beach res-

taurants such as Joaquina.

Among the fish, the gray mullet is a big hit, es-pecially between May and June, the fishing pe-riod. The delicacy is served with a filling of fa-rofa (made with breadcrumbs finely milled or manioc flour), roes, shrimp, offal, and is also delicious simply seasoned with salt and lemon. However, those who do not like seafood also finds great places to eat in Lagoa da Concei-ção. There are excellent options of pasta, pizza, snacks and cafes. All of the above with a view of the lagoon, making the meal even more pleasant.

In Caacupé, Sambaqui and Praia do Forte, there are typical restaurants with fresh molluscs and Azorean architecture. It is also possible to en-


joy tasty dishes on the Island of Santa Catarina, where there is the largest seafood nursery in Brazil. The best desserts in Floripa are in Ribei-rão da Ilha.

Those visiting the beach of Jurerê can take ad-vantage of the beautiful view, while savoring delicious red meat, poultry or seafood dishes, in addition to the irresistible snacks. And to accompany your meal, nothing better than a good wine or sparkling wine, right?

In neighborhoods of Córrego Grandet and Trin-dade, near the Federal University of Santa Ca-tarina, the tourist will find excellent options of restaurants with more affordable prices. The restaurants offer executive, buffet and self-service dishes with varied options every day of the week.

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travel tips | florianópolis (eng.)

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