Cultural and Family Adventure in Salvador, Brazil

First Impressions: Salvador's Embrace

Touching down in Salvador, the air was thick with anticipation. The TravelDestinationReason I had crafted months ago was finally coming to life. Priya, Devon, and I were ready to dive headfirst into the heart of Bahia. After a smooth flight, thanks to TravelTransportation, and a quick check-in at the Aquarena Hotel, we were eager to begin our adventure. The hotel lived up to its promise, offering a comfortable and welcoming space to unwind after our journey. With our TripEssentials safely stowed away (though I did have a momentary panic about forgetting the bug spray!), we set out to explore.


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

Our first stop was the legendary Pelourinho, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As we stepped onto the cobblestone streets, it felt like stepping back in time. The vibrant, pastel-colored buildings, pulsating with music and life, were a feast for the senses. I couldn't help but snap photos, trying to capture the essence of this historical neighborhood. Devon was immediately captivated by the street performers, especially the capoeira dancers, their movements fluid and mesmerizing. Priya, ever the historian, was fascinated by the architecture and the stories etched into every corner. We wandered through the Largo do Pelourinho, the heart of the district, where the echoes of history resonated.


Discover the colorful streets and vibrant culture of Pelourinho, Salvador’s historic heart and a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in Afro-Brazilian heritage.

Salvador is more than just a destination; it's an experience that awakens the soul and ignites a passion for culture, history, and the vibrant spirit of Brazil.

For breakfast, we stopped at Restaurante Pelô Bistrô, a charming spot with a delightful menu. I opted for a traditional Bahian breakfast, while Priya enjoyed some fresh tropical fruits, and Devon, predictably, went for the pastries. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring.


Experience authentic Bahian flavors at Restaurante Pelô Bistrô, where seafood meets tradition in the vibrant heart of Salvador.

Next, we made our way to the Elevador Lacerda, an iconic landmark that connects the upper and lower cities. The ride itself was quick, but the views from the top were breathtaking. The Bahia de Todos os Santos stretched out before us, a sparkling expanse of blue, dotted with boats and framed by the city's skyline. Devon was thrilled, pointing out landmarks and peppering me with questions about the city's history. I must admit, even I was impressed, despite having seen countless photos of this view.


Experience the breathtaking views and historical significance of the Elevador Lacerda, Salvador's iconic connection between two worlds.

After the panoramic views from Elevador Lacerda, we plunged deeper into Salvador's cultural heart with a visit to the Afro-Brazilian Museum UFBA. Housed in what was once Brazil's first medical school, the museum offered a powerful and moving glimpse into the Afro-Brazilian experience. The collection was extensive, featuring artifacts, photographs, and artwork that told stories of resilience, resistance, and cultural pride. Devon was particularly drawn to the musical instruments, fascinated by the rhythms and sounds of Afro-Brazilian music. Priya was moved by the displays on the history of slavery and the struggle for freedom. I was particularly struck by the “Mural dos Orixás” by Carybé, a series of panels depicting the deities of Candomblé. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the artwork were captivating, and I found myself lost in contemplation, reflecting on the rich and complex history of this place.


Explore the profound impact of African culture on Brazil at the Afro-Brazilian Museum UFBA in Salvador, a must-visit for every traveler.

For lunch, we indulged in authentic Bahian cuisine at Odoyá, a restaurant recommended for its seafood and traditional dishes. The restaurant's name itself, a greeting to the goddess of the sea, Yemanjá, set the tone for a meal steeped in Bahian culture. We started with some refreshing caipirinhas, the quintessential Brazilian cocktail, before diving into a feast of moqueca, vatapá, and acarajé. The flavors were bold and vibrant, a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage. Devon, surprisingly, enjoyed the moqueca, a fish stew made with coconut milk and dendê oil, while Priya savored the vatapá, a creamy dish made with shrimp, coconut milk, and bread. I couldn't resist the acarajé, a street food staple made from deep-fried black-eyed peas, stuffed with shrimp and a spicy pepper sauce. It was a flavor explosion that left me wanting more.


Discover authentic Bahian cuisine at Odoyá, where fresh seafood meets rich cultural heritage in the heart of Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.

Our final stop for the day was the Mercado Modelo, a bustling marketplace filled with local crafts, souvenirs, and artwork. The market was a sensory overload, with vendors hawking their wares, music blaring from every corner, and the aroma of spices filling the air. We wandered through the stalls, haggling for souvenirs and admiring the intricate craftsmanship of the local artisans. Priya picked up some colorful fabrics, while Devon found a berimbau, a traditional musical instrument used in capoeira. I couldn't resist buying a few paintings, eager to bring a piece of Salvador's vibrant culture back home with me. I even bartered a bit, remembering tips I read about how haggling is part of the culture here.


Discover the heart of Salvador at Mercado Modelo, a vibrant market filled with crafts, cuisine, and cultural treasures from Bahia.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Restaurante Casa de Tereza for dinner. This restaurant is known for its innovative approach to Bahian cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques. The ambiance was elegant and sophisticated, a perfect setting for a memorable meal. Chef Tereza Paim has created a space that celebrates Bahian culture through art, decor, and, of course, food. Each room in the restaurant is themed, paying homage to different aspects of Bahia's heritage. The food was exquisite, a culinary journey through the region's diverse flavors. We tried a variety of dishes, each one beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the spices were perfectly balanced. It was a truly unforgettable dining experience.


Experience the authentic flavors of Brazil at Restaurante Casa de Tereza in Salvador's lively Rio Vermelho neighborhood.

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – Ibn Battuta.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves reflecting on the incredible experiences we had shared. From the vibrant streets of Pelourinho to the poignant exhibits at the Afro-Brazilian Museum, Salvador had already cast its spell on us. The flavors of Bahian cuisine had tantalized our taste buds, and the warmth of the local people had touched our hearts. It was a day filled with discovery, laughter, and connection, a perfect start to our family adventure. Thinking about tomorrow, I'm excited to visit Forte de Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat and Basílica do Senhor do Bonfim. And perhaps we'll unwind at the Blue Beach Bar in the evening. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to share the beauty and richness of Salvador with my family.

Tomorrow promises more adventure, with plans to explore the Forte de Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat and the Basílica do Senhor do Bonfim. I'm particularly looking forward to unwinding at the Blue Beach Bar in the evening, soaking in the sounds of the ocean and the rhythm of Bahia. I am also hoping I will remember to buy the bug spray I forgot at the pharmacy nearby!

It's safe to say that Salvador has already captured our hearts, and I can't wait to see what the rest of our journey holds.