The Itinerary

Welcome to our trip itinerary! Click on each day for more details about the activities we’ve planned. While we’ve organized some fun events, most are optional—feel free to explore at your own pace or take a day to unwind. This is your vacation, so make it as adventurous or relaxing as you like!


Jan 8 | Airport Return Day
Jan
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Jan 8 | Airport Return Day

Thank You for an Unforgettable Journey!

We want to extend our deepest gratitude to each of you for joining us on this incredible adventure in Brazil. Your presence made this experience truly special, and we are so thankful for the memories we’ve shared together. As we head home, let’s carry the joy, laughter, and love with us. Safe travels!


Important: To be safe, Uber to the airport around 11:30pm. Joni & Steph will accompany the group to the airport to give assistance with the check-in process in Portuguese.

The group trip journey back to Fort Lauderdale starts with the first flight leaving at 2:35 am from Recife (REC), with a connection in Belo Horizonte (CNF), where you’ll have a 5-hour 35-minute layover. Make sure to try some authentic Pão de Queijo snacks at the airport!

Afterward, you’ll board a flight to Curaçao (CUR), with a short 1-hour 15-minute layover before continuing to Fort Lauderdale (FLL), arriving at 7:00 pm. Remember to plan for these layovers and enjoy a smooth trip back!

Group Flight Confirmation Number: BQLWMB

Folks will then fly to their respective destinations in KC, Portland, and NYC.

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Jan 7 | Free Day | Farewell Lunch
Jan
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Jan 7 | Free Day | Farewell Lunch

Take the morning to relax, pack, or explore before our final farewell. We’ll gather one last time for a delicious family lunch to close out our time together in Brazil.


Hungry for Breakfast?

Try these amazing bakeries and coffee shops in the neighborhood!


1:30pm | Farewell Family Lunch at Ponteio | Traditional Brazilian Steakhouse

Transport: Car/Uber

Come hungry and join is for a Farewell Family Lunch at Ponteio Steakhouse, where we’ll enjoy one last meal together before wrapping up our time in Brazil.

A rodízio is an all-you-can-eat dining style where servers bring various grilled meats to your table continuously. You can try different cuts of several grilled meats, along with veggie side dishes and a salad and sushi bar, making it a fun and social way to enjoy a meal!

$15 per person all you can eat rodízio (excluding drinks & dessert).


Optional: Go Shopping at RioMar, Take a Stroll at the Beach, or Pack & Relax!

There is still a little bit of time before your trip tonight, so your late afternoon is free.

Want to do some shopping before your return? After lunch, Uber to RioMar Shopping Mall, a popular destination for gifts. Explore its wide range of stores and find the perfect keepsakes to bring home.

Alternatively, you can always take a last stroll down Boa Viagem beach for that last açai bowl and fresh coconut water. Or take a much deserved nap before your trip back!


Hungry for Dinner? Here are some great restaurants in the neighborhood. Or, you can always download the Rappi app and order delivery. For a nearby meal, Adele (the restaurant we went to on our first night in, is a great choice.)


It’s a wrap! | Finish Packing Bags for Return Trip


Important: To be safe, Uber to the airport around 11:30pm. Joni & Steph will accompany the group to the airport to give assistance with the check-in process in Portuguese.

The group trip journey back to Fort Lauderdale starts with the first flight leaving at 2:35 am from Recife (REC), with a connection in Belo Horizonte (CNF), where you’ll have a 5-hour 35-minute layover. Make sure to try some authentic Pão de Queijo snacks at the airport!

Afterward, you’ll board a flight to Curaçao (CUR), with a short 1-hour 15-minute layover before continuing to Fort Lauderdale (FLL), arriving at 7:00 pm. Remember to plan for these layovers and enjoy a smooth trip back!

Group Flight Confirmation Number: BQLWMB

Folks will then fly to their respective destinations in KC, Portland, and NYC.

Important! This group ticket (BQLWMB) will only take you to Fort Lauderdale. Don’t forget to book those return flights to KC, Portland, and NYC, as they aren’t part of this ticket.

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Jan 6 | Return to Recife
Jan
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Jan 6 | Return to Recife

After an amazing weekend in Pipa, it's time to head back to Recife for a relaxing evening. We’ll enjoy a casual lunch, followed by a chill movie night for those who want to wind down. Whether you're staying in or exploring nearby, it's all about taking it easy after the beach fun!


Hotel Breakfast Buffet | Open from 7:00 am to 10:00 am


11:30 pm | Check-Out from Pousada Bicho Preguiça | Leave bags in the Lobby for safe-keeping | Carol & Ben might need to leave a bit earlier to pack before they catch their flight!


12:00 pm | Lunch at Camurim Pipa | Casual Regional Food

Transport: 6min drive from Pousada Bicho Preguiça | Wheelchair Accessible


2:00 pm | Van Leaves Pipa from Pousada Bicho Preguiça


Quick Stop at Gas Station | Water, Coffee, Snacks & Bathroom Break


Arrive in Recife | Check in to Airbnbs A and B


8:00pm | Optional: Movie Night at Airbnb B

We will be ordering delivery dinner from the famous Laça Burger restaurant and having a relaxing night in to recover from the beach weekend.


Staying in or hungry after our beach day? Here are some great restaurants in the neighborhood. Or, you can always download the Rappi app and order delivery.

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Jan 5 | Free Day | Praia do Madeiro
Jan
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Jan 5 | Free Day | Praia do Madeiro

Take the day to relax and explore! Some of our party will be returning home today, while the remainder is returning to Recife tomorrow.


Hotel Breakfast Buffet | Open from 7:00 am to 10:00 am


10:00 am | Optional: A stroll in the small Pipa Eco Sanctuary


11:00 am | Optional: Head to Praia do Madeiro for a Chill Beach Day

Praia do Madeiro is a stunning, secluded beach in Pipa, known for its golden sands and calm waters—perfect for relaxing, swimming, and spotting dolphins.

For a more comfortable experience, enjoy Madeiro Beach Hotel’s Day Use for $50 per person, with $35 going towards food and drinks at Boho Restaurant. You’ll have access to a sand pool, bathrooms, lounge chairs, and private beach access.

For beach access, you’ll need to walk down a staircase that descends from the cliffs to the beach. It’s a bit of a climb, but the view and peaceful atmosphere make it worth the effort.

For accessibility, skip the staircase and relax at the hotel's magnificent sand-bottom pool, while still enjoying the stunning beach views.


Prefer something more casual? Head to Madeiro Beach Bar, open to the public after 11am, where you can enjoy drinks and snacks right on the beach without the need for day use. For beach access, you’ll need to walk down a staircase.

There’s a $70 minimum spend on food and drinks, but we can easily split it as a group, making it a fun and easy option for everyone. If these booths are full, it’s ok! There’s a lot of other vendors available.


Getting There: Praia do Madeiro is about 10 minutes by car or taxi from Pipa town center.


5:30 pm | Optional: Visit the creative space of Rafa Santos Atelier

During our stay in Pipa, you’ll notice a distinct art style popping up everywhere. Join us for a stop by Rafa Santos’ art shop for a glimpse into the work of one of the area's most famous artists. It’s a great opportunity to see local creativity up close and maybe take home a unique piece!

Transport: 10 min drive from Praia do Madeiro | 18min walk from Pousada Bicho Preguiça | Wheelchair Accessible


6:30 pm - 8:00 pm | Time to freshen up! Quick shower and recharge before dinner.


8:30 pm | Dinner at Trio Restaurant & Grill | Elevated Regional Menu

Transport: 5 min Taxi Ride | 14 min walk from Pousada Bicho Preguiça | Wheelchair Accessible


11:00 pm | Grab a drink at Birring in Paradise Brewery to wrap up the day.

Transport: 4 min walk from Terral Pipa | 12 min walk from Pousada Bicho Preguiça | Wheelchair Accessible

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Jan 4 | Celebrate Joni's Special Day!
Jan
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Jan 4 | Celebrate Joni's Special Day!

Let’s celebrate Joni’s birthday with lots of amazing food, beautiful tropical views, sunshine, and dancing under the stars!


Hotel Breakfast Buffet | Open from 7:00 am to 10:00 am


11:00am | Lounge at Pipa Beach Club at Praia da Pipa & Praia do Amor

Transport: Car/11min walk from Pousada Bicho Preguiça | Wheelchair Accessible

Some beaches in Pipa are only accessible by staircase, but Pipa Beach Club offers a laid-back, accessible experience right in the heart of Praia da Pipa. With cozy loungers, shaded seating, a small pool, and direct beach access, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy ocean views. They’re first come, first serve and open at 11am, so feel free to arrive early, grab drinks and food, and come and go throughout the day!

Located a short walk from Praia do Amor, where you can take a beach stroll, get a seaside massage, or even enroll in a surf class! Be aware that if the tide is high, you will need to walk through the city and go down a staircase to access this beach.

Please be ready to cover your own meal & entertainment costs.


4:00pm | Optional: Watch the Sunset at Mirante Sunset Bar

Transport: 7min walk from Pipa Beach Club | Unfortunately, Not Wheelchair Accessible – Lots of Stairs

Mirante Sunset Bar is the perfect spot to enjoy breathtaking cliffside views of Pipa’s coastline. With laid-back vibes, refreshing cocktails, and live music, it’s the ideal place to watch the sunset paint the sky. Relax, sip, and take in the unforgettable scenery!

Please be ready to cover your own bar costs. $10-15 tickets at the door.


6:30 pm - 8:00 pm | Time to freshen up! Quick shower and recharge before dinner.


8:30pm | Joni Bday Dinner at Porca Vaca Steakhouse | Brazilian BBQ, Burgers, & Pizzas

Transport: 11min walk from Pousada Bicho Preguiça | Wheelchair Accessible

Please be ready to cover your own meal costs.


11:00pm | Dance the Night Away at Agora Lounge Bar | Samba Night

Transport:

1min walk from Porca Vaca Steakhouse | Wheelchair Accessible

11min walk from Pousada Bicho Preguiça | Wheelchair Accessible

Please be ready to cover your own bar costs.

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Jan 3 | We're Going to Pipa!
Jan
3

Jan 3 | We're Going to Pipa!

Today, half of our group will head back home, while the rest of us are off to Pipa! It’s a long road trip, around 4.5 hours – but we promise it’s totally worth the wait. Sit back, relax, and maybe even catch a nap on the road to paradise.


Leaving Today? | Thank you so much for spending time with us! Grab an Uber and head over to the airport at least 2 hours before your flight. Please make sure to take all of your belongings as we are all checking out of all Airbnbs today.


Important! Airbnb A and Airbnb B will be checking out today and leaving all luggages they aren’t taking to Pipa at J&C’s Apartment for safe keeping.


8:30am | 15 person Van & Cars Leave for Pipa from J&C’s Apartment

Important! The van ticket is $35 round-trip, per person. Please Venmo or Paypal Steph at @stephaniemadeit with your ticket fare by December 1st.

Be sure to pack some snacks and water bottles for the journey!


Quick Stop at Gas Station | Water, Coffee, Snacks & Bathroom Break


2:30pm | Check-In at Pousada Bicho Preguiça

Important! Room prices vary. Half upfront deposit is already paid. About $160 per room due at checkout.


Optional: Lunch at Layback Skate Park

Transport: 9 min walk from Pousada Bicho Preguiça to Layback Skate Park | Wheelchair Accessible

Please be ready to cover your own meal costs.


Optional: 4:30pm | Sunset at Chapadão Lookout

Transport: Walking/Taxi/Rent A Bike

Rent a Bike at Pipa Bikes and ride to view the sunset at Chapadão

22 min walk from Layback Skate Park to Chapadão | Semi-Wheelchair Accessible


6:30 pm - 8:00 pm | Time to freshen up! Quick shower and recharge before dinner.


8:30pm | Dinner at Villa | Aprecie Restaurante

Transport: Walking/Taxi

12 min walk from Pousada Bicho Preguiça to Aprecie Restaurant | Wheelchair Accessible

Please be ready to cover your own meal costs.


11:00pm | Arandi Garden Bar Latin Cumbia Night

Transport: Walking/Taxi

12 min walk from Aprecie Restaurant to Arandi Garden Bar | Wheelchair Accessible

3 min walk from Arandi Garden Bar to Pousada Bicho Preguiça | Wheelchair Accessible

Please be ready to cover your own bar costs.


Want a change of genre? There’s a DJ playing until 2am at Agora Club.

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Jan 2 | Road Trip Back to Recife
Jan
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Jan 2 | Road Trip Back to Recife

Today’s focus is on getting back to Recife, enjoying some final meals together, and preparing for your next steps—whether that's heading home or continuing the adventure in Pipa!


Hotel Breakfast Buffet | Open from 7:00 am to 10:00 am


11:00pm | Hotel Check-Out 


12:00 pm | Bus Leaves Back to Recife 


1:30 pm | Lunch Stop | Estação do Sabor | Self-Service & Brazilian BBQ 

Please be ready to cover your own meal costs. 

Meet back up by the bus at 3:00pm


6:00 pm | Check-In to Airbnbs, Pack & Relax


8:00pm | Beachside Dinner at Bode da Praia 

Some of our party will be returning home tomorrow, so join us for a relaxing beachside dinner to enjoy one last evening together.

Transport: Uber

Please be ready to cover your own meal costs.


Pack for Return Flight or Pack for Pipa

Tip: Going to Pipa? Don’t forget your sunscreen and swimsuit!


Important! Airbnb A and Airbnb B will be checking out tomorrow and leaving all luggages they aren’t taking to Pipa at J&C’s Apartment for safe keeping.

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Jan 1 | Relax & Recover Pool Day in Pesqueira
Jan
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Jan 1 | Relax & Recover Pool Day in Pesqueira

After all the excitement, today is your chance to sleep in, relax and recover. Take it easy by the pool, grab a bite when you’re hungry, and unwind with a casual pizza and game night. It’s a perfect day to rest and recharge before the next adventure!


Hotel Breakfast Buffet | Open from 7:00 am to 10:00 am


Hungry for lunch? Try out Hub Gastrobar 

Need a snack? Here’s a nearby Convenience Store

Please be aware that some places might be closed because Jan 1st is a holiday in Brazil.


Optional: 4:30pm | Sunset Pool Hangout 


8:00pm | Pizza & Game Night | Play Games and Eat Pizza by the Pool!

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Dec 31 | It’s New Year’s Eve!
Dec
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Dec 31 | It’s New Year’s Eve!

Our NYE Party will be at Steph’s late grandparents’ house in the rural small city of Alagoinha. During the holidays, this quaint little town comes alive with lots of lights, cultural attractions, carnival games, and concerts on the city square. We will have a big dinner, lots of bubbly, live music, and fireworks to welcome 2025 in style!

We rented a bus to take us there. The bus is driven by a professional driver, has comfortable seating, AC, USB chargers, and a bathroom on board. A water bottle and light snack will be provided (please feel free to bring more!)


Important! The bus ticket is $28 there, $28 back ($56 round-trip) per person. Please Venmo or Paypal Steph at @stephaniemadeit with your ticket fare by December 1st.


Important! As a family, we all pitch in for the catered dinner, desserts, and drinks. This fee also helps cover the cost of people working at the house. $15 per person. Please Venmo or Paypal Steph at @stephaniemadeit by December 1st.


Important! Airbnb A will be checking out today and leaving all luggages they aren’t taking to Alagoinha at J&C’s Apartment for safe keeping.


8:30 am | Board the Bus to Alagoinha! Leaving from J&C’s Apartment

Transportation: Uber/Walking


12:30 pm | Lunch Stop | Estação do Sabor | Self-Service & Brazilian BBQ 

Please be ready to cover your own meal costs. 

Meet back up by the bus at 2:00pm


3:30 pm | Check-In at Hotel Estação Cruzeiro 

Important! Rooms are $35 per person for the duration of the stay. Includes breakfast buffet. Please pay on Check-In.

Tip: Need a change of clothes before the party later? Please bring a little bag with your outfit, a towel, and toiletries to freshen up! We will have one room in the family house with a bathroom. Feel free to leave your bags in there. 


5:00pm | Bus/Cars Leave to Drop Us Off in Alagoinha


Optional: Explore Alagoinha! 

Things to Do: Live Attractions, City Square, Church, Carnival, Food Carts, Street Bars, Bar da Leda, Hanging out at the House 

Transportation: Walking/Wheelchair Accessible

Tip: Don’t miss the last Zabumba of the year! Starting in front of the church promptly at 6pm.


11:00 pm | NYE Party Starts! 

Family Dinner is served after the fireworks at Midnight, with mingling to follow. We rented tables at the concert area to dance the night away.

Tip: Participate in the roasted chicken auction! 


A shuttle van will be transporting people back to the hotel throughout the night. Pickup Area right next to the Alagoinha house.

1:30 am | First Shuttle Van Leaves 

2:30 am | Second Shuttle Van Leaves 

4:00 am | Third Shuttle Van Leaves 

6:30 am | Fourth Shuttle Van Leaves 

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Dec 30 | Free Day | Optional: Maracaípe Beach Day Trip
Dec
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Dec 30 | Free Day | Optional: Maracaípe Beach Day Trip

Enjoy a free day to explore or relax, but if you’re up for a special beach adventure, join us for a day trip to Maracaípe Beach! We’ll stop at Bar do Galo, a one-of-a-kind spot where the mangrove river meets the ocean—perfect for soaking up the sun and experiencing something unique.


10:30 am | Optional: Leave for Maracaípe Beach Day Trip

Transportation: Uber/Cars


12:30pm | Lunch at Xalés de Maracaípe 

Please be ready to cover your own meal costs.

Tip: Wear lots of sunscreen! 


Bar do Galo: Bar inside a Mangrove at the Beach

Transportation: Car & 15 min Walking | Unfortunately, Not Wheelchair Accessible

Please be ready to cover your own meal costs.


6:30pm | Leave after Sunset

Transportation: Uber/Cars


Staying in or hungry after our beach day? Here are some great restaurants in the neighborhood. Or, you can always download the Rappi app and order delivery.


Pack for Alagoinha 

Tip: Bring anything you might need for our New Year’s Party! 

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