General

Joao Pessoa is the easternmost city in South America, tourists can visit this point at the famous lighthouse (Farol). Its also the second greenest city in the world losing only to Paris. The city is characterised by tropical beaches, modern apartment buildings along its coasts and historical colonial architecture in the center of the city.

History

The city was founded in 1585 by the Portuguese arriving at the mouth of the Paraiba River after wars against the local Indians and later the French. The were many conflicts over Paraiba as the area proved perfect for sugar production. The Spanish influenced the city briefly when they became allies during 1580-1640. The dutch also took hold of the city for 20 years in the 17th century. In 1930 a popular polotiican was assainated and the the city hournoured him by changing the name of the city to Joao Pessoa as it is now, literally translated as "John Person".

Climate

Joao Pessoa has a pleasant tropical climate, with warm temperatures between April-September and hot temperatures in October - March. Joao Pessoa being the easternmost point of South America luckily recieves a constant cool breeze from the sea which makes a big difference agianst cities that dont. Rainfall is heavy but doenst normally last more than an hour with an average of 300 sunny days per year, you start to miss the rain and its appreciated when it comes to ensure the city stays green.

International Airport

The airport named "Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport" is situated 8km from downtown Joao Pessoa. Recently renovated to recieve international flights the expansion has raised its annual capaciy 860,000 passengers. Most passengers are Brazilian from the south of Brazil but in the coming years there are more international flights planned.

Urban transportation

With twice the taxis per capita than the average Brazilian city, youll never have trouble finding a taxi. With metered fares a typical ride in the city costing around R$10-15. With longer distances negotiable Recife R$130, Natal R$150 Joao Pessoa airport to Tambau R$50.

The bus system coverage is pretty good and the average Brazilian uses this network exclusively as means of transport. All routes head to/from the terminal in the center (Terminal de Integracao do Varadouro) where you can transfer to other routes for free or to private operated inter-city buses. There is only one far R$2.20 and you should take correct change until the new electronic ticketing system is implemented in the near future.

Distances