When we got a Scott’s Cheap Flights alert that tickets were super cheap to Brazil out of Orlando, we wanted to jump on it. However, we had to figure out if we could travel safely and comfortably in this South American city. We decided that it made sense for us to start with a short trip; that way, we could see what it was like without being overly committed if we didn’t feel okay.
Which is how, two years ago today, we found ourselves in Fortaleza for a three-night trip over Memorial Day weekend. It gave us the perfect taste of the city, and we had a great time, even if it was short.
Here’s what we did:
Day 1: Hotel Gran Marquise
We left Orlando the night before, and after a refuel in the Dominican Republic, as well as a layover at the International Airport of Brasilia (that had some mechanical issues), we arrived in Fortaleza in the early afternoon. We took an Uber – it cost about $5 USD, after tip – to our hotel, the Hotel Gran Marquise, which was lovely and right on the beach. They had upgraded our room for free, so we had a great view of the water from our window.
After a quick shower and change, we headed out to the Avenida Beira Mar, the road our hotel was on and the main strip by the beach. We took the opportunity to run around the beach, as well as check out some of the shops nearby. My favorite was 50 Sabores, a famous ice cream shop.
We then headed back to the hotel to spend some time at the rooftop pool. Our overnight travel was catching up with us, so after drinks and snacks at the bar – caipirinhas, mojitos, and croquetes de carne – we called it a night.
Day 2: Avenida Beira Mar
After breakfast at the hotel, an expansive buffet that was included with our room, we headed up to the pool. We spent a good chunk of the morning lounging and reading (and drinking piña coladas) before we got ready for the day.
We felt comfortable walking further away from the hotel now, so we continued down the Avenida Beira Mar. There were many solicitors to try to get you to go to certain restaurants, but we ultimately landed on Boteco Praia for lunch. They had a great happy hour special on draft beer, where they ended up being about $2 USD each.
We walked back toward the hotel along the beach, where we watched the sunset. We grabbed drinks in the hotel lobby before heading back to the pool, which we had to ourselves for quite awhile. A few drinks later, we headed back to our room for a movie and bed.
Day 3: Dragão do Mar
We ate breakfast at the hotel, and then we got an Uber to Dragão do Mar, the art and cultural center. We spent the morning exploring this area, which had some wonderful art and murals everywhere. If you’re looking for a great spot to take photos, this is it!
Once we were ready to head back, we opted to walk along the water rather than get a car. We found ourselves back at Boteco Praia, where we were able to get drinks to go. We also passed by another 50 Sabores, so we stopped in for a snack. Once we got back to the hotel, we headed to the pool for a soak – even in their winter, that Brazilian sun is no joke.
After swimming and lounging, we headed to Coco Bambu for dinner. This was a very nice restaurant, and we had a great table on the rooftop. We almost made the mistake of each ordering a dish intended for two people, but the server helped guide us. We were glad we didn’t – one main dish was more than enough! The food was tasty and fresh, providing the perfect last meal for our trip (and the most “expensive,” with a total bill of about $52 USD).
We then headed back to the hotel to pack and go to sleep, since we had an early morning ahead.
Day 4: Fortaleza-Pinto Martins International Airport
That 2:30 am alarm kills! We checked out and grabbed an Uber to the airport for our 6 am flight.
Our trip was short, but we had a great time. We spent a lot of time relaxing and getting our bearings, so the next time we go to Brazil, I think we’ll be ready for a little more adventuring!
