Salvador De Bahia, Brazil

EXPERIENCE THE CAPITAL OF JOY IN SALVADOR DE BAHIA

Brazil’s first colonial capital, today Salvador is an energetic, vibrant city rich in Afro-Brazilian culture. African rhythms are a part of Salvador’s local fabric, and you can hear and feel them everywhere—from Capoeira, a mix of martial arts and dance, to Candomble, a religion of ritual and magic that originated in Africa.

Pelourinho, the city’s historic center, is an architectural jewel, with an array of opulent churches—carved and embellished with an abundance of gold leaf. The slaves who built much of Pelourinho were not allowed inside once work was complete. Barred from their creation, they labored at night for a century to build a beautiful church for themselves—Our Lady of the Rosary.

Salvador is home to many delicious local dishes you’ll want to try, including acarajé—bean and shrimp fritters. Acarajé blends Brazilian and African culinary influences, resulting in a flavorful snack that is perfectly portable. Grab a few and make your way to the bustling Mercado Modelo to browse and bargain with local vendors.