After Iguaçu, I went to an incredibly small island called Ilha do Mel in the state of Paraná to meet up with Johanna. The island is beautiful and sweet, making it a simple treasure and is likely where it got its name. There are no cars allowed on the island and you can hear the waves from just about everywhere. I stayed there for almost a week which was really nice and relaxing.
On Ilha do Mel, I stayed over Easter weekend which created a crazy contrast. Easter is a huge holiday in Brazil and is second only to Carnival for the biggest celebration. Ilha do Mel is a very popular Easter destination for Brazilians and travelers alike. When first on the island the beaches were nearly yours alone and the hostels and pousadas were close to empty. But come Thursday night before Easter, there were thousands of people there. The whole island changed. The chilled out beach bum bars turned into night clubs with popular Brazilian DJs and people spilling into the sand paths that lead to amazing latenight local food. There were bonfires and people partying until dawn. Since the island has such a calling for Easter weekend, accommodations doubled. I ended up borrowing a tent from a local and camped for the weekend to cut costs, which I believe was well worth it!
I got very sunburned on Ilha do Mel. My skin hurt for 4 days! But it did get better and it did turn into a tan that I am very proud of! Haha
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