Once again we really didn’t have much planned to do in Santarem. Cathy wanted to get to a point where she could see the meeting of the waters here since we didn’t get a chance to see it in Manaus. So we ended up taking a cab into town for 6 dollars and walked around the stores. As usual, a lot of stuff we can’t buy, although Cathy was able to find a couple of small souvenirs. We finally got to a spot where we could see the rivers joining, but then still climbed up a bunch of stairs to where there was an observation tower that gave a slightly better view. We also passed by where they were setting up some Christmas floats, and I have to tell you, see giant snowmen on floats near the equator was only slightly more surreal than when I walked by a house and could hear ‘Freebird’ playing inside. Cathy then found a place where should could buy a hammock, since these seems to be fairly common to be sold around here. (Hammocks are apparently a common choice since mattresses tend to mildew in the humidity.)
Then it was back to the ship via a taxi. First cab driver was looking for $10 to take us back, even though we were closer than where we’d been dropped off earlier for $6. Second driver offered $5, which was good enough for us. A little last minute shopping in some stalls at the pier (Cathy needed some post cards to mail even though they’re costing a fortune to mail), then back on the ship to relax for the rest of the afternoon.
Did notice that security seemed to be especially strict here at this stop in checking people for prohibited items. Also was somewhat amazed at just how many people seemed absolutely clueless that such restrictions were in place.
We did get a chance on sailing to see where the waters of the river that Santarem meet with the Amazon, and actually sailed along the edge for a little bit. It was starting to get a little dark by this point though.