Recife, capital of the State of Pernambuco, is known as the "Brazilian Venice" because of its many canals and waterways and innumerable bridges that span them. It is the major gateway to the Northeast, with regular flights to all major cities in Brazil as well as Lisbon, London and Frankfurt. International cuisine is available as well as succulent fish dishes typical of the region. Fresh coconut water is found anywhere. Close by is Piedade Beach and further out, the unspoiled beaches of Tamandare, Sao Jose da Coroa Grande, Maria Farinha and Porto de Galinhas. The sun shines brighter in Recife the anywhere else and Recife's beaches are undoubtedly among the loveliest in the Northeast.