Natal

Natal (pronounced [naˈtaw]) is the capital city of Rio Grande do Norte, a north eastern state in Brazil. As of the IBGE 2006, the city had a total population of 789,896 ( 1,234,819 in its metropolitan area).

Natal is located at 5°46′S, 35°12′W, in the far east of South America. The city has a total area of 170 km². Natal lies on the Atlantic Ocean, at the mouth of the Potengi river.

With its dozens of sandy, white beaches, such as Ponta Negra and its famous Morro do Careca, tourism is the most important industry of Natal, attracting Brazilians, Europeans, and Americans alike.

It is also a relevant administrative center for the oil industry (Rio Grande do Norte being the second largest oil-producing state in Brazil). The fishing industry is strong (shark cartilage being a major export to Japan) as is the cultivation of tropical fruit, especially mangos, guavas, and cashews (the fruit and the nuts).

The Augusto Severo International Airport connects Natal with many Brazilian cities and also operates some international flights. The city is home to the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte.