PORTS OF CALL - South America
Imbituba, Brazil
Aside from being a lot of fun to say, Imbituba is a Brazilian port town that draws visitors from all over the world. Located in the southern state of Santa Catarina, it has long been a hot spot for surfing, sailing, fishing and all kinds of other water sports. But one attraction unique to this coastal village is its right whales. These beautiful endangered creatures grace the shores of Imbituba for several months a year, making whale watching a popular activity among tourists and locals alike.
Don't Miss
Right whales are known for their acrobatics, so you can expect a spectacular show if you head out on a whale watch. And if you're visiting Imbituba between May and November, don't miss the opportunity to see the right whales giving birth and nursing their calves, usually within sight of shore. This once-in-a-lifetime spectacle for visitors is a welcome annual event for the local residents as well. You can find out more about these remarkable animals on Itapirubá Beach at the National Right Whale Conservation Center - the whaling station has been rebuilt as a museum and historic site.
Sporting Adventures
See if you can "hang ten" with the best of them at the Praia do Rosa (The Rosa Beach), discovered by hippie surfers in the 70s. Now one of the homes to the world surfing championships, Imbituba is no longer a trade secret - it's beginning to hold its own among popular surfing destinations in Australia and Africa. If you'd rather keep your ten toes on the ground, take the 30-minute walk to the untouched Praia Vermelha (Red Beach) and relax among the coconut and bamboo trees, cacti, orchids and other wild flora. Only a half-hour to paradise? Not bad!
Local Flavours
It will come as no surprise that the cuisine in Imbituba is all about seafood. Local restaurants may even offer menu items caught fresh from Ibiraquera Pond, known for its good shrimping. If you're more the carnivorous type, however, do not despair - try the feijoada, a stew of pork, sausage and smoked meat cooked with black beans and garlic. It's one of Brazil's most popular dishes, so it shouldn't be hard to find.
Currency
Brazil's currency is the Brazilian real (BRL). Most stores will accept credit cards; however, traveler's checks are not usually accepted. You may get a discount if you pay with cash.