Guaíba
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Guaíba is a Brazilian city that lies on the opposite side of the Guaíba River from Porto Alegre in Rio Grande do Sul state. It is a small industrial town with a large cellulose (paper) and elevator factory. Guaíba is known for its proud Gaúcho tradition and the pride of having served as a base for the farrapos during an attempted revolution. Guaíba is known for its beauty, especially at sunset from either the beaches or the Escadaria (a large stairway near the center of town). There are many neighborhoods in Guaíba with varying levels of wealth. The further from the center of the city you go the poorer the people get. One neighborhood is known as São Jorge. It is one of the centers of crime in Guaíba; however, it is far from being as dangerous as the favelas in Rio de Janeiro. There are many friendly humble people in São Jorge. Guaíba has a heavy German influence, due to the immigration that occurred before, during and after WWII. The German immigrants are mostly Lutheran, however many have converted to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the Catholic Church as well as other religions. Guaíba is a great place to visit if you want a day trip while in the city of Porto Alegre.