Cultural and Family Adventure in Salvador, Brazil

Beach Bliss and Artistic Adventures in Salvador

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the relaxation of the beach with the vibrancy of art and the deep history etched into Salvador's streets. It's amazing how much this city can offer in just one day, and I'm excited to share our experiences.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Bargaço. It was a great way to start, fueling up for the day's adventures. I went for the moqueca, Priya chose the casquinha de siri, and Devon, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by trying a bit of both! The coffee was strong, the food was delicious, and the atmosphere was just perfect for a family breakfast. It's these simple moments, sharing a meal and planning the day, that I truly cherish.


Experience authentic Bahian seafood delights at Restaurante Bargaço in Salvador, where fresh flavors meet vibrant coastal views.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we headed to Praia de Villas do Atlântico.


Experience the serene beauty of Praia de Villas do Atlântico, a stunning beach in Lauro de Freitas, Bahia, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

The beach was a welcome change of pace. The sun was shining, the waves were gentle, and the sand was soft beneath our feet. Devon, of course, made a beeline for the water, splashing and playing with the other kids. Priya and I found a nice spot to relax and soak up the sun. I tried my hand at some photography, capturing the vibrant colors of the beach and the joyful expressions of the people around us. It's moments like these that remind me why I love traveling with my family – the shared experiences, the laughter, and the memories we create together.

After a refreshing morning at the beach, we decided to immerse ourselves in some culture at the Museu de Arte Moderna da Bahia (MAM).


Explore the vibrant world of contemporary Brazilian art at MAM - Museu de Arte Moderna da Bahia, nestled along the stunning coastline of Salvador.

The museum is housed in the Solar do Unhão, a historical site dating back to the 16th century, which in itself is a work of art. The contrast between the modern art and the historical architecture was striking. Devon, surprisingly, was quite engaged, asking questions about the different artists and their styles. Priya, with her artistic eye, provided insightful commentary, enriching our experience. I was particularly drawn to the works of Rubem Valentim, his bold and colorful pieces resonating with the vibrant spirit of Bahia. The museum also offers open courses in painting, engraving, ceramics, and sculpture, which is something I'd love to explore if we had more time. The view of the Bay of All Saints from the museum was simply breathtaking, a perfect backdrop to the incredible art on display.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

For lunch, we found ourselves at Bella Bistrot, a charming spot that offered a delightful fusion of Brazilian and Northeastern cuisine. The chef, Ana Robéria, clearly puts a lot of love and care into her dishes. Priya and I shared the Memórias de Bella, a dish featuring sun-dried alcatra, green beans with mocotó broth, pickled maxixe, and manioc farofa. It was a burst of flavors and textures, a true culinary adventure. Devon, sticking to his familiar favorites, opted for a simpler dish, but even he couldn't resist trying a bite of our meal. It's always a joy to introduce him to new and exciting flavors, expanding his culinary horizons.


Discover Bella Bistrot in Salvador: A blend of bistro charm and exquisite seafood cuisine awaits you.

In the afternoon, we ventured into the heart of Salvador's history, the Largo do Pelourinho.


Discover the vibrant culture and history of Salvador at Largo do Pelourinho, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with art, music, and culinary delights.

Walking through the cobblestone streets, surrounded by colorful colonial buildings, was like stepping back in time. The energy of the place was palpable, with music filling the air and capoeira dancers showcasing their skills. We learned about the history of the Pelourinho, its significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its role in Afro-Brazilian culture. Devon was fascinated by the stories of the past, his eyes wide with wonder. Priya and I took some photos, trying to capture the essence of this historic place. The Pelourinho is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a living testament to the resilience and vibrancy of Afro-Brazilian culture.

Before dinner, Priya insisted on some retail therapy, so we headed to Shopping da Bahia.


Discover the vibrant Shopping da Bahia in Salvador, your ultimate destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment in Brazil.

It was quite a change of pace from the historical streets of Pelourinho, but it offered a glimpse into modern Salvador. The mall was bustling with activity, with a wide variety of stores catering to every taste. Priya found some beautiful fabrics and handicrafts, while Devon was thrilled to discover a new video game store. I, on the other hand, was content people-watching and enjoying a refreshing cafezinho. It's funny how even mundane activities like shopping can be interesting when you're in a new place, surrounded by different sights and sounds.

For our final meal of the day, we chose A Casa Vidal, a restaurant known for its Mediterranean cuisine with a Bahian twist. The ambiance was cozy and romantic, perfect for a Sunday dinner. The chef, Juan Vidal, is known for blending Spanish flavors with local ingredients, creating a unique culinary experience. Priya and I shared the bacalhau do Porto and the filet Wellington, both cooked to perfection. Devon, always eager to try new things, surprised us by ordering the lambreta, a local delicacy of mangrove clams cooked with herbs and spices. The meal was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a celebration of Salvador's diverse culinary scene.


Discover exquisite Spanish cuisine at A Casa Vidal in Salvador - where every dish tells a story and every sip delights.

As we headed back to the Aquarena Hotel, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible day we had experienced. From the sun-kissed beaches to the vibrant art and the historic streets, Salvador had captivated us with its beauty and charm. It's a city that truly has something for everyone, and I'm grateful to have shared this experience with my family. Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Praia de Armação and the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of the Black People, continuing our journey through this fascinating city. I'm also looking forward to unwinding at Di Janela - Gastronomia, Restô, Bar.


Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at Aquarena Hotel in Salvador, offering a relaxing retreat just minutes from the city center.

It's been another day of discovery here in Salvador, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Good night from Brazil!