Fortaleza is one of the largest cities in Brazil and certainly one of the most vibrant. Temperatures range from 23-31 C with rare exceptions. July - November has virtually no rain. February - May can have its share, but mostly at night. Fairly safe for a Brazilian city this size (about 2,5 million
http://www.ibge.gov.br/home/estatistica/populacao/contagem2007/populacao_2007_DOU_05_10_2007.xls), but stay alert when wandering away from Beira Mar, especially after dark. Although quite a party town, Fortaleza itself hibernates during carnival, when any party-animal who can afford to goes to some outlying beach.The author
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/José_de_Alencar José de Alencar is so important for the identity of the city of Fortaleza (and also the state), that its inhabitants are nicknamed ''Alencarinos''. He eagerly discussed the origins of the people, languages and geographical names of the region. Most important in this context is the novel ''Iracema'', with its renowned main character lending her name to several neighborhoods and inspiring statues around town.In Brazil, Fortaleza is also known for its crop of comedians, and the ''forró'' music and dance, all gaining popularity countrywide. The city is perhaps the most popular domestic package tour destination, and Europeans are following suit. Sadly, the latter comes with its share of holiday prostitution.Several municipal '''tourist information'''
http://www.setfor.fortaleza.ce.gov.br/index.php?optioncom_content&taskview&id18&Itemid25 offices around, the most convenient being at the '''airport''', the #Buy|Central Market and '''Beira Mar'''(Half way between McDonald's and the fish market). http://wikitravel.org/en/Fortaleza