Linda means pretty. Olinda is really linda. It is little town on the Brazilian coast, just 6 kms north from the huge Recife. Founded in 1535, during the colonial period Olinda was a capital of the Pernambuco region. Now it is one of the most beautiful colonial cities with color houses, cobbled street and ornate churches.
From Boa Viagem beach quarter there is direct bus 910 going through the center to Olinda. You pay 3.35 reales and after about half an hour you land at the bottom of the hill with elegant Carmo church on the top. Tourist office is jus opposite – we got there a free old city map and started to stroll atmospheric streets. There are manu churches but most of them are closed and abandoned. San Francisco church and monastery is the highlight with interior open and free to visitors.
Today’s Olinda is the city of artists. You will see many funny murals. Near the cathedral they have also a tower with free lift to take you up so you can see the panoramic views of the historic city and Recife on the horizon.
For me Olinda is nicer (and safer) then Recife. So if you have a choice – go to the linda Olinda!
Today in the afternoon I am boarding the ship which will take me back to Europe with few stops. Internet on the ship is VERY expensive so do not worry if I will send next message after 5 or 6 days.
I hope that Atlantic Ocean will be calm – please keep your fingers crossed for that dear friends 🙂
