Natal is the underdog when it comes to big Brazilian cities. A fusion of beach days and vibrant nights, relaxation and restaurants, coastal beauty and crystal waters, Natal – Portuguese for Christmas – is truly Brazil’s Sunshine City.

The city takes its name from the day it was founded by Admiral Antônio da Costa Valente – 25th December 1599. After several failed attempts at colonization, the armada entered the shoals of the Potengi River. But the city’s troubles didn’t end there; Dutch forces took over in 1633 before the Portuguese wrestled it back in 1954. Independence was gained, along with the rest of Brazil, in 1822.

Apart from being one of the country’s most coveted tourism destinations, the city is also home to the Brazilian NASA. To celebrate this fact, we have laden our festive cocktail by using Edinburgh Christmas gin which is defined by spiced, aromatic notes of frankincense and myrrh and classic juniper. The result? A more approachable Dry Martini-esque serve with floral spice touches, that will have you shooting for the stars!