MANAUS, AMAZON

Manaus is today the centre of a rapidly developing Amazon region. The city’s old-world mansions and monuments still exist but are now set among modern skyscrapers. The finest example of architecture from this period is the Teatro Amazonas (Opera House), which we will see during our tour.

Manaus is today the centre of a rapidly developing Amazon region. The city’s old-world mansions and monuments still exist but are now set among modern skyscrapers. The finest example of architecture from this period is the Teatro Amazonas (Opera House), which we will see during our tour. Newly renovated the 1896 Teatro Amazonas appears in its entire belle époque splendour. It is a symbol of the region’s past ‘golden era’ of the rubber boom, and still ranks as one of the world’s most elegant theatres.We now travel to INPA (National Institute of Amazonian Research) – a vast botanic garden containing an array of flora and fauna. Here we may be lucky enough to spot birds, monkeys and sloths, as well as tropical fish, caimans and turtles.Later we visit the Science Museum, where displays of stuffed Amazonian animals and insects can be viewed. We can also see the giant pirarucu in its aquarium – the largest scaly fish in Brazil, with an elongated and bulky body measuring some two metres (six feet) long, and weighing up to 90 kilograms (200 pounds). The meat is similar to cod. The museum also houses Indian artefacts, costumes and weapons of the region’s principal tribes. There is some walking involved during this tour, and steps to be negotiated: 5 minutes in the Opera House and 25 steps (ramp available); 30 minutes at INPA; and 30 minutes at the Science Museum, plus 8 steps. There is also rather a long walk (approximately 200 metres/650 feet) from the quayside to board the tour buses (and vice versa). To venture a little further at INPA, to see the turtle and Alligator Lake, there are approximately 150 steps (spread over some 16 flights), although a ramp is also available, and there are resting areas. Please note that the Opera House is sometimes closed due to commitments, such as rehearsals, without prior notice, for which Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines cannot be held responsible. The visit to the Opera House will be short, since there are restrictions imposed by the management; passengers wearing shorts (including Bermuda shorts) will not be permitted to enter. Complimentary mineral water is supplied. There should be an opportunity to purchase local arts and crafts.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR THE 2007 CARIBBEAN SEASON