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Student Travel
Posted on January 31, 2010 by Editor
In this section we find the most radical student holiday destinations for you to consider visiting during university vacations.
Slideshow:
In this edition, Tim Hurrell reviews Jericoacora in Brazil and gives the low down on how to make the best of a trip to one
On the northeastern coast of Brazilian in the state of Ceará about 300 km West of Fortaleza is Jericoacoara (pronounced Jeri-kwa-kwa-ra). This little fishing village has become know as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Although becoming popular with backpackers it has kept it’s wonderful charm. This is mainly because it is situated in the middle of a national park and its strict building regulations, restricting buildings in size and to within the village limits. The streets that meander amongst the modest houses are all of sand, like out of a day dream. Due to strong winds that blow from mid morning to sunset everyday it from June to January it has drawn windsurfers and kitesurfers from all over the world. Being surrounded by freshwater lagoons amongst the sand dunes and situated on a coast that stretches into the horizon there is no shortage of space. Surfing is good in Jercoacoara as well, although those looking for larger waves should look further south on the coast. Not only water babies enjoy Jericoacoara as it is a place of outstanding beauty. Every evening the locals preform Capoeira to the sound of the berimbau, a simple string instrument. Capoeira is a gravity defying, martial art that is unbelievable to watch. For those keen to learn there are lessons done on the beach front. With no shortage of sand dunes around sand boards can be rented from the middle of town. All the fun of snowboarding in a pair of shorts and a t-shirt. There are numerous sand buggy tours that take you to the out lying lagoons and surrounding area. Fancy a trip to a simple lagoon side restaurant and a delicious seafood lunch, followed by a laze in a hammock suspended above the bath warm lagoon? Horses are brilliant for visiting places close by and can be rented by the hour. Visit Pedra Furada (the arched rock), the nearby hills, dry mangroves or simply gallop along the beach. For a small village Jericoacoara has lively night life, which starts with the famous Caipirinha from one of the many drinks carts that line the beach front in the evening. From here on to dance the night away with live music at one of the local bars. With the mix of locals and travelers it definitely makes for a good night. The best part of Jeri is just simply doing nothing, the chilled out relaxed attitude of everyone rubs off very quickly. With the many Pousadas, or bed and breakfasts, in town it is very easy to find cheap and comfortable accommodation. Getting to Jericoacoara is fairly simple as there are regular buses, which are very good, from the international airport in Fortaleza. For those who would prefer a bit more peace of mind there are private transfers that can be arranged to and from the airport as well.