these colonies are located on the waterfront and are dotted with small markets, bars and fresh seafood restaurants, as most of the day's catch is brought back to the colônia to be sold at below-market prices.

 unlocking the tourism potential of the colonies has become one of the techniques chosen to complement their earnings. this method has worked, to some extent - people in the know come from all over to sample their wares, and it is not unheard of for the occasional celebrity to turn up for an authentic seaside lunch.