How would I describe Ihla do Mel in one word? Paradise…
Ihla do Mel translates to "Island of Honey" - its an ecological reserve; this means no cars/no roads (its only accessible by boat - passenger fairies are available), and visitors are limited to 5000 a day. Its located in Parana and consists of 4 villages: Nova Brasilia, Praia des Encantadas, Praia da Fortaleza, and Farol. Its really cool, the villages are linked together by various trails, and there are boat taxis available. Plenty of beaches and caves to explore. Encantadas and Nova Brasilia are the most developed; I prefer Nova Brasilia, because of the fact its mainly hippies, surfers, and backpackers/world travelers staying there - usually good music (including live performances), and theres a cool strip of bars, restaurants/launchettes, and pousada's… What is a pousada? A very simple cabin for sleeping/accommodations. Usually you get a bed, possibly a TV with terrible reception, maybe a mini-refrigerator, possibly a fan, and a bathroom and shower with water you wouldn't want to drink… I know, it doesn't sound great, but they're cheap - $15.00 to $25.00 (USA dollars) a night, that usually includes breakfast. There are, I think, a few places that offer A/C as well, for a few more dollars. Keep in mind theres no high-rise luxurious accommodations, no fancy restaurants, and no disco's or nightclubs - If that's what you're looking for, I suggest you go to Rio instead. If you like beautiful not-crowded beaches, then Ihla do Mel is the place for you.
I love Ihla do Mel. If I could buy a pousada, I'd give up the thrills and pitfalls of modern technology/civilization and live there forever… The water is perfect swimming temperature, the scenery is fantastic, a great beach, surfing, cool people, a very laid back mellow vibe, lots of blues and reggae… And its cheap. Also, in case birds are your thing... Ihla do Mel is somewhat of a sanctuary for many birds, some of which are rare; nature photographers and bird-watchers like to come here.
Below are a few pousada's I have stayed at or made a note of for some reason or other:
Ihla do Mel is beautiful… Please don't litter there, not even your cigarette butts! As always in Brasil - if you're a foreigner, a little Portuguese goes a LONG way. There are a few pay telephones in Ihla do Mel, they're not always working, and mobile/cellular phones don't always work too well there - Also, you might want to pack basic first aid. Food, bottled water, bathroom stuff, cerveza, etc is available on the island. Bring a flashlight for your night time excursions. Definitely use sun protection (especially if you're a Gringo like me), and mosquito repellant - yes, the mosquitoes there love American blood - no, the mosquitoes there do not carry malaria…
Enjoy the pictures.
Praia do Farol - phone (41) 426 8014 - www.praiadofarol.com.br - (in Portuguese)
Pousada Por do Sol - phone (41) 426 8009 - www.pousadapordosol.com.br - (in Portuguese)
Plancton Pousada - phone (41) 9978 2880
Pousada Enseada - phone (41) 9978 1200 - www.pousadaenseada.com - (in Portuguese)
