Hotels & accommodation (7/10):Natal is the holiday destination for many brazilians, so there is a wide selection of hotels. The hotels always seems to be really clean, and gives good value for the money.
Places to eat (6/10): Lots of resturants along the ponta negra beach. Brazilian meat is excellent. Fish is also very popular in Brazil, and they have some really tasty fish dishes.
Beach (7/10):Ponta Negra is the beach closest to Natal. The beach is pretty nice, but it would be nice to have a decent beach in walking distance from the city. Not really child friendly, big waves. The beach is often crowded.
Shopping (8/10):Cheap markets, big malls or more exlusive shops. You can find it all in Natal. Prices are pretty low wich make Natal a good destination for shopping.
Local culture & people (5/10): I got my wallet stolen from a pocket thief. Beware! Not many speak english. Other than that the Brazilians were all friendly. As for culture Natal itself seems to be very much a tourist towns with big hotels and lots of resturants and bars. For some more autentic culture I'll recommend renting a car and visit som of the cozy fishing villages outside of Natal.
Activities & Attractions (4/10):Beachbuggy on the sand dunes outside of the city was really fun. For a city the size of Natal (800.000), there was suprisingly little to see.
Nightlife (9/10):Many bars and discos. Very cheap alcohol. In Brazil they really know how to have a good time
Summary:Great climate all year, nice beaches and good night life. I'll recommend a Natal holiday to anyone.
Review by Eva, Germany