Hot and steamy Belém [17] sits at the mouth of the Amazon River 150 kilometres south of the Equator, its streets lined with huge old shady mango trees. Interesting historical buildings remain as well as the 1616 fort which once guarded the river entrance.  The busy waterfront market sells everything including exotic Amazon fruit and Brazil nuts.  Boats unload fish and prawns while pigs lie squealing on the docks.

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After meeting up with Eduardo and Mervyn we were privileged to attend Ed´s grandparent’s 60th wedding anniversary celebrations.

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We purchased passage on the N/M Rondonia headed up river two and a half days to Santarem [18].  Stay tuned…

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