Florianapolis

A view of a lake in the foreground and the Atlantic ocean beyond. It was a little hazy that day but at least it is natural... no air pollution!
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Florianapolis is located along the southern coast of Brazil.  The city is divided with half of it on the mainland and the other half on Santa Catarina island.  The two sides are connected by the longest suspension bridge in Brazil.  The city was first founded in 1542 so it has seen a lot of history!  The island is really beautiful.  It is pretty large so various beach communities dot the coastline with different beaches and personalities.  The center of the island is mountainous so there are great opportunities for views,forest, and strong updrafts for para-gliders.  During our travels I keep looking at the places we go as potential new homes and this is the first one that could truly be tempting.  Big enough city for everything a person needs including a real airport but also with the island and beach communities for the relaxed, beach life.  Surfing, scuba diving, exploring...  Hard to beat!