Il migliore New Year I've always spent on the beach of Salvador De Bahia. Barefoot, with a blue-white pearl necklace around her neck and dressed in white, as Brazilian tradition dictates! This year I have not yet made plans to say goodbye to 2012, certainly no Latin destinations, but with my heart and mind I will be with those who can afford this wonderful experience and here are some little tips for those who will visit this surprising and complex city, where music , sun and fun mix with poverty and crime, expressing all the contradictory spirit of Salvador.
Da visit in the city:
Pillory. The declared old part of Salvador World Heritage Site by UNESCO. A tangle of narrow streets lined with colorful houses with an unmistakable colonial style. I do not recommend going there on Sundays because most of the shops are closed and therefore you cannot fully enjoy the fun chaos that reigns there.
Lacerda's elevator. This deco-style lift connects the upper city (where the Pelourinho is located and the lower city that overlooks the sea) by making the descent of 72 meters. Try it, it will give you a beautiful view of the sea, but don't expect anything extraordinary, it is still an elevator.
Model market. The colorful market which is located in the lower part of the city, facing the sea and on the opposite side of the exit of the Elevador Lacerda. Here you will find an infinite number of local handicrafts and many ideas to bring home some souvenir which among other things, here, are sold at lower prices.
Lagoa do Abaetè. Less tourist destination. An oasis a few kilometers from the heart of the city. Dunes of fine sand and white, palm trees, give the illusion of being in a Caribbean beach and instead it is a lake.
Praia de Rio Flamengo. Just outside the city, it can be reached in about 40 minutes by bus, but it is worth going. Endless beaches and kiosks to eat lobsters and crabs freshly caught. Sports enthusiasts can also surf, there are nice waves here. I've tried, but let's say it's not my sport!
Forte Beach. About two hours from Salvador it can be reached by bus from the Rododiaria, the Central Bus Station. Those who stay in the state of Bahia often spend a few days here, but I recommend a short episode (one day, maximum two). The place is delicious and well cared for, but a little fake and a lot tourist. However, a visit to the Tamar Project center for the protection of sea turtles should not be missed. The lucky ones will be able to admire, at the first light of dawn, the eggs hatch and accompany them with their eyes turtles just born as they plunge into the sea. Fantastic!
Finally, as regards New Year's Eve, my advice is not to make plans, but to get out on the street (perhaps along the sea) and let yourself be overwhelmed by the charge and the Bahian joy. You will be spoiled for choice among the various stalls offering exceptional street food for a few reais (don't be intimidated by the not really hygienic conditions ... impeccable street vendors, most of which are improvised!). Music won't be missing either. Every year a large stage is set up right next to the lighthouse da Barra ... and then everyone on the beach to throw flowers into the sea with a good glass of mojito.
Talking about it makes me want to leave!
