The city of Florianopolis is the political capital of the state of Santa Catarina and the tourist capital of Mercosul. Located on the Island of Santa Catarina, but extending its limits to mainland, Florianopolis has unmatched landscape. There, the exuberance of mountains merges with the beauty of sand dunes, small islands along the coast and over a hundred beaches, which offer visitors different choices, from calm waters and relaxing bays to open sea and surfing waves.

Numerous native tracks encourage adventurers to explore the inspiring and yet unveiled enchantment of the Atlantic forest. Florianopolis is not only famous for its unrivaled natural beauties, visited by tourists from different countries, but also for its historical meaning. Ancient history can be vividly experimented by rustic painting work left by the Native Americans on rocks throughout the region. Last Portuguese village in Brazil up to the 18th century, the island was defended by four well-preserved fortresses. Legends of sunk galleons are proved right by relics recovered both from the bottom of the sea and along the coast. During the early years of the Republic, the island was used to imprison political exiled, enemies of Marshal Floriano, who inspired the current name of the city. Its geographical position naturally turned Florianopolis into an important port of call to seamen and aviators traveling North-South.

The island was used as airport by French aviator Antoine de Saint-Exupéry on its South courier route. The famous beach of Campeche, one of the beauties of the island, was named by him. The local population mainly descends from Azoreans. Portuguese immigrating to Florianopolis brought and passed along their traditions including fishing, dancing, knitting and witch stories. Florianopolis is still remembered as the Magic Island. The traditional Portuguese culinary is also considered one of the best in Brazil. Typical seafood recipes are accompanied by fish or shrimp and cassava flour. The present population of 450,000 inhabitants descends from different people. Brazilians from different regions have also been attracted to the natural treasures of Florianopolis.

Florianopolis related links

www.guiafloripa.com.br
www.ufsc.br
www.sol.sc.gov.br/santur/
www.costao.com

Passaport and Visa Requirements: The Brazilian visa policy is based on reciprocity. Citizens from countries that require visa for Brazilian citizens are subject to the same formality when visiting Brazil. Visa may be obtained at local Brazilian Consulates.

Currency: Brazilian currency is the Real (R$). Major credit cards are generally accepted.

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