Cultural and Family Adventure in Salvador, Brazil

Salvador's Soulful Thursday

Today was a deep dive into the heart and soul of Salvador. From historical reflections to artistic expressions and, of course, the tantalizing tastes of Bahia, it was a day of discovery that left Priya, Devon, and me utterly captivated. It's amazing how much history and culture is packed into this vibrant city.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Lucius Restaurante. I opted for a traditional Bahian breakfast, which included *cuscuz* (steamed couscous) with coconut milk and a side of fresh tropical fruits. Priya enjoyed some *pão de queijo* (cheese bread) and coffee, while Devon, ever the predictable one, went for scrambled eggs. Fueled up, we were ready to explore.


Experience exquisite dining at Lucius Restaurante in Salvador - where local flavors meet contemporary culinary artistry.

Our first stop was the Fallen Cross Monument, a striking sculpture that commemorates the demolition of the Old Cathedral of Salvador. It's a poignant reminder of the city's ever-evolving landscape. The monument itself is quite impressive, a modern art piece that stands in stark contrast to the historical buildings surrounding it. I explained to Devon the story behind it – how the old cathedral was torn down to make way for trams, a decision that sparked much debate back in the day. He seemed genuinely interested, which is always a win when you're trying to sneak in a history lesson on vacation.


Explore the Fallen Cross Monument, a historic landmark in Salvador's Pelourinho district, rich in culture and architectural beauty.

From there, we walked to the Foundation Casa de Jorge Amado, a place I was particularly excited about. As someone who appreciates literature, I've always been fascinated by Jorge Amado's work. The foundation is housed in a beautiful blue building in Pelourinho and serves as a museum and cultural center dedicated to his life and legacy. Inside, we explored exhibits featuring his books, manuscripts, and personal belongings. It was like stepping into the world of his novels, surrounded by the vibrant colors and rich stories of Bahia. Priya was especially taken by the photographs of Amado with other famous writers and artists. Devon, surprisingly, enjoyed looking at the old typewriters and imagining what it would have been like to write on them.


Explore the life and legacy of Jorge Amado at the Foundation Casa de Jorge Amado, a cultural jewel in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.

Culture is the widening of the mind and of the spirit.

Next on our list was the Carlos Costa Pinto Museum, a treasure trove of 18th and 19th-century art and artifacts. The museum is located in a stunning mansion and offers a glimpse into the lives of Bahia's elite during the colonial era. We wandered through rooms filled with antique furniture, porcelain, jewelry, and paintings. Priya was in her element, admiring the intricate details of the jewelry and imagining the women who once wore them. Devon, on the other hand, was more interested in the old maps and navigational instruments. I found myself drawn to the religious art, which offered a fascinating perspective on the intersection of faith and culture in Bahia.


Explore the artistic heritage of Bahia at Carlos Costa Pinto Museum, a hidden gem in Salvador showcasing exquisite Brazilian decorative arts.

For lunch, we decided to try La Taperia, a Spanish tapas bar that came highly recommended. It was a welcome change of pace from the Bahian cuisine we had been indulging in. We ordered a variety of tapas, including patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo, and chorizo al vino. Everything was delicious, and it was fun to share the different dishes and try new flavors. Devon, surprisingly, loved the patatas bravas, which had a bit of a spicy kick. Priya enjoyed the gambas al ajillo, while I couldn't get enough of the chorizo. It was a perfect midday meal.


Experience authentic Spanish tapas at La Taperia in Salvador's lively Rio Vermelho neighborhood - A culinary gem for every food lover.

In the late afternoon, before dinner, we decided to venture into O Cravinho, a traditional bar known for its *cravinho*, a local drink made with cachaça, cloves, cinnamon, and honey. The bar itself is a lively spot, filled with locals and tourists alike. The air is thick with the scent of spices and the sound of laughter and music. I ordered a round of *cravinho* for Priya and me, while Devon opted for a Guarana, a popular Brazilian soda. The *cravinho* was potent but delicious, a perfect blend of sweet and spicy. We sipped our drinks and soaked in the atmosphere, feeling like we were truly experiencing the heart of Salvador.


Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of Salvador at O Cravinho, where expertly crafted drinks meet the lively spirit of Pelourinho.

For dinner, we had reservations at Restaurante Chez Bernard, a renowned French restaurant with stunning views of the Bay of All Saints. The restaurant has been a Salvador institution since 1963, and it's known for its classic French cuisine and elegant ambiance. We started with escargots and French onion soup, followed by steak frites for Priya and me and grilled fish for Devon. Everything was cooked to perfection, and the service was impeccable. As we ate, we watched the sunset over the bay, the sky ablaze with color. It was a truly magical experience.


Experience exquisite French cuisine at Restaurante Chez Bernard in Salvador, where elegance meets exceptional flavors.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on all that we had seen and done. From historical monuments to art museums to traditional bars and fine dining restaurants, we had experienced so many different facets of Salvador's culture. It was a day that deepened our appreciation for this vibrant and complex city.

Tomorrow, we're planning to hit the beaches, starting with Praia do Buracão. Devon's been itching to spend some time in the water, and I have to admit, I'm looking forward to a day of sun and sand myself. We're also hoping to visit the Museu Náutico da Bahia - Farol da Barra and maybe even take a trip to Praia de Arembepe. It sounds like another exciting day lies ahead, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

I'm glad I remembered to pack my sunscreen, but I'm still kicking myself for forgetting the bug spray. Those mosquitos are relentless! And a portable phone charger would have been a lifesaver today. Oh well, live and learn, right?

Until tomorrow,
Anthony