Leisure on the urban rivers of Triple Frontier Region: transformations, contradictions and meanings

Abstract The discussion about urban rivers, in its interface with leisure, is the theme of this research, focusing on the Brazilian city Foz do Iguaçu, located in the Tri-Border Region as well as Puerto Iguazú (Argentina) and Ciudad del Este (Paraguay). The general purpose of this research is to identify and discuss the social appropriations and leisure experiences that happen on urban rivers Paraná and Iguaçu and their banks. The present study also aims to understand their transformations and the contradictions, and also how locals give meaning to these fluvial environments. The methodology of this qualitative research included documentary research, observation and interviews with 23 inhabitants of Foz do Iguaçu. Through this study, it is possible to see that the appropriations and leisure experiences have become punctual due to urban and environmental changes that overlooked an inclusive dimension between the city and its fluvial environment. There is still, in the rivers and their banks activities such as recreational fishing and adventure sports, which assign different meanings to these rivers through ludic, contemplative, spiritual, and interactive experiences with the waters. A privileged look focused on tourists has been prioritized and this has had an impact on public and democratic leisure areas for dwellers near rivers and its banks.