After spending a day in Natal I am convinced that Natal is more beautiful then Fortaleza. The Portuguese landed here in the Christmas Day (Natal) of 1597and that’s why they named theplace after Christmas. Then on 6th January they started to built the little fortress called Forte dos Reis Magos (we say: Three Kings and celebrate 6th January). Natal has 800 000 inhabitants and is divided by the Dunes Park. Old part lies at the mouth of Rio Potengi where they built high, picturesque bridge and tourist beach quarter Ponta Negra lies some 10 kms south bordered by high coastal dune Morro do Careca.
Three King’s Fort lies on the tip of the Old Town peninsula. We took city bus to Praia Areia Preta. Then tourist police want you to take a taxi to go through the dangerous area to the fort. Isn’t it a big shame? Why they do not put there two police patrols?
Taxi cost us 12 reales. Fort (1,50 entry fee) is small but worth to see. It offers great view of the high bridge and downtown.
In the afternoon I have been to Ponta Negra beach to take for you the pictures of Careca dune. It is protected so you cannot climb it. Nice place. Only few Brazilian tourists on this great beach. Maybe it is too hot?
So now you know: if you are forced to make a choice – go to Natal!
