Seniors Land In Florianópolis

Ever heard of Florianópolis? Me neither until this senior accidentally got off a plane in this city and had difficulty reboarding to fly on to Sao Paulo and back to the states.  I thought that we’d landed in São Paulo.

My wife and I had just spent a month with Argentine friends in Corrientes and were on our way back to the states. I figured that it was a direct flight to São Paulo and on to Miami. Wrong. Anyway, I got off the plane in Florinapólis and had a difficult time getting back on again. Dumb me. Anyway, here I am back in the states and so I did manage to get back on the plane to return home.

 The Island of Magic

Dubbed Ilha da Magia – Island of Magic – Florianópolis is one of three Brazilian state island capitals. Floripa, as the island is affectionately known by locals, is one of the world’s best surf spots and most stunningly beautiful locations. The city has become one of the most popular destinations in Brazil for senior visitors looking for superb beaches, beautiful scenery, interesting culture and friendly people.

With a half million residents, Florianópolis is said to be one of the finest places to live and visit in all of South America. The many crescent beaches and quiet town demeanor invite seniors to extend their stay and enjoy the easy going Brazilian lifestyle.

With a choice of that many fine beaches, some are like private islands and others offer popular water-based activities. Florianópolis also satisfies people who appreciate historical places. The forts from the 18th century, built to protect the island against foreign invaders can be visited via easy strolls.

The New York Times reported that Florianópolis was a “Party Destination of the Year.” Does that tell you something partygoers? Brazilian weekly Veja noted the city to be “the best place to live in Brazil”, so it’s only natural that senior tourists would want to come and check it out.

Seniors Discover Dynamic City

Named one of the “Ten most dynamic cities in the world” by Newsweek Magazine, Florianopolis boasts a highly developed infrastructure, schooling system, literacy rate, and the list goes on.  TripAdvisor notes 107 attractions travelers recommend including some of the best surfing in the world.

And not only will you be safe in the water while surfing in Florianopolis (no sharks or reefs to worry about!), you’ll also be safe outside the water as there is very little crime. City officials say it will be the future “Silicon Valley of Brazil, with beaches.”

You’ll find the city modern, with large shopping malls, chain and high-end restaurants and many glamorous bars and nightclubs. Furthermore it is a modern city with a touch of colonial feel to it because of the old fortresses and other similar sites.

Looking backwards, guess I should have just not gotten back on the plane and checked out the Floripa for myself. Enjoy your stay.  jeb