Recife is a beautiful seaport located at the confluence of Capibaribe and Beberibe rivers in Northern Brazil. You’re sure to enjoy its pristine beaches, colonial architecture, and lively culture.
Before discovering all that Recife has to offer, don’t forget to first purchase travel medical insurance.
Recife Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
Buy travel medical insurance when traveling to Recife. How else will you leave your worry at home and enjoy the life-changing experiences it has to offer?
Do I need travel medical insurance for Recife?
It is not mandatory to have travel medical insurance to enter Recife, or anywhere else in Brazil for that matter. But a medical emergency can occur at any point and cause a big dent in your trip budget. Buying travel medical insurance is a no-brainer.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Recife?
Accidents, illnesses, and disasters often strike with an element of surprise. And when they decide to happen, you’re at risk of financial peril. Don’t let accidents and injuries ruin Recife for you. Be prepared. Buy travel medical insurance so you can receive the treatment you need, without being solely responsible for a massive medical bill.
Things To Do for Travelers in Recife
The capital of Pernambuco is one of the most exciting cities of Northeastern Brazil. It has a vibrant way of life, a booming entertainment and restaurant scene, and a legendary city center. Take yourself to Recife to experience a city with great character.
Here are some noteworthy things to do in Recife:
Recife Carnival
Don’t even think of missing this if you’re in Recife in February. After all, the Recife carnival is one of the most important carnivals in Brazil, and a tribute to Afro Brazilian cultures. Over 1.5 million people crowd the streets playing Samba music, dancing, and enjoying themselves. Be one of these happy millions. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience; you won’t forget it for years.
The scenic town of Olinda
Olinda is a colorful, tranquil town just outside Recife, known for its pastel-colored houses and quaint churches. This town was declared a heritage site in 1982. This is a must-visit, especially if you are a history buff.
Casa Da Cultura
Casa Da Culture is a stunning artisanal market where you can do traditional shopping. It is home to stunning artifacts, souvenirs, and local art.
Old City Recife
You must visit the old city to get the real essence of Recife. It is bursting with colorful houses, markets, and colonial architecture. Put Praca da Republica, Teatro Santa Isabel, Catedral de São Pedro dos Clerigos, and Mercado do São José on your to-do list.
Local Cuisine
When in Recife, eat as the islanders do. The local cuisine can be traced back to the Dutch, the Spanish, Africans, and Indians. It features a lot of corn, coconut sauce, fresh seafood, local fruit, and grilled meats. What is more delicious than fresh island produce?
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Recife
Brazilians are extremely friendly people. While Recife is a tropical paradise for sunshine lovers, just like every other major city, it is also high on the crime scale. Some people might even call it dangerous. Here, be wary of:
Theft and violence
Armed robberies and assaults do occur in Recife. Street crimes such as mugging and pickpocketing pose risks to travelers. Despite laws restricting firearms, criminals may use handguns and blades. Be smart when walking outside tourist areas, especially alone or at night.
Drug Trafficking
27% of crime and homicides in Brazil are because of drug trafficking. Comando Vermelho is a Brazilian criminal organization nefarious for drug and sex trafficking. It operates in much of the country. Make sure to steer clear of illegal substances and bad neighborhoods here.
Kidnapping and Scams
Most cases of fraud in Recife involve tricking tourists. It is often something trivial, like cabbies driving with the taxi-meter switched off. Scams could be graver, like criminals adding sleeping pills to drinks and robbing tourists. Recife is also known for its express kidnappings, where people are abducted while withdrawing money from ATMs.
Shark Attacks
Since 1990, more than 30 shark attacks have been reported in Recife. While you may want to enjoy the sea, be sure to follow the strict surfing rules at Praia Boa Viagem (Recife’s biggest urban beach) due to the danger of shark attacks.
Lack of Police Response
Police officials in Recife often lack resources and equipment, staffing, and jail space. Corruption is a problem faced by travelers and locals alike when dealing with local law enforcement.
Before You Travel to Recife - Do This
- Learn the Language: The language barrier is often an issue travelers face when in Recife. Brush up on your Portuguese before your trip to communicate with the locals better.
- Prepare to drink bottled water: You might drink from the tap back at home, but the plumbing systems in Brazil are a cholera breeding ground. Always carry and drink bottled water in Recife.
- Buy travel medical insurance.