Olinda is a picturesque, bohemian colonial town packed with painters' studios, impromptu musical events and cachaca-fueled parties. Its gorgeous pastel-coloured houses flank a stunning ensemble of baroque churches on the historic centre's hillside overlooking the sea.

We spent a morning wandering the quaint streets before heading into nearby Recife, the somewhat grittier and larger city known for its dance and musical heritage . The waterfront FIFA FanFest was jam-packed for the Brazil v Chile last 16 tie which kicked off at 1pm local time under a scorching sun. We were grateful to the vendors who struggled through the crowds to provide us with ice-cold cervejas throughout the game that was eventually decided on penalties. Thankfully, the party was to continue...!

Onward bus to Natal, 5 hours.