January 17, 2026- Day #13

 At about 11:00 am we arrived at the port of Fortaliza, Brazil. The name means fortress in Portuguese but these days it has a population of about 2.7 million and is the fifth largest city in Brazil. Also it is the capital of the State of Ceara in northeast Brazil. We saw areas that were being setup for their pre-Carnival celebration. Yes, these people party to celebrate preparing for the big celebration. We experienced Carnival in Aruba last year and had to wear ear plugs that they sold prior to the parade. If you have never experienced this celebration in Latin America, this needs to be on your bucket list. 

Our day in this city was marred by having our Sights of the City tour cancelled. So we took a shuttle bus the RioMar Shopping Center. Joan and I went out and walked the area around the outside of the mall and then through the shopping center. We saw the International Trade Center but not really that impressive. They did not take US currency and I have not gotten any Brazilian real. Their currency. So we had an encounter with a nice young lady who did not understand English or my broken Spanish. We were able to communicate that we wanted two mango smoothies and paid with an American Express card. Some friends did take a taxi ride to a local beach and the surf was really rough, and went to a historical museum that closed at noon (they were there about 1:30). They also went to a cathedral that was locked, so maybe missing our tour was no big loss. I have a few general pictures that I will try to upload. Wish me luck. The picture is of some of the city skyline, the stage where a group was practicing the local music genre and a massive tent where there were other vendors for the party later in the day. I am sure most if not all provided libations.