A Black British Girl's Perspective of a Global Village
If you choose to be in Salvador da Bahia for the 'The biggest street party in the world' as opposed to Rio's world-famous Sambadrome, or any other carnival in Brazil for that matter, there is most probably a reason behind this decision.
From practice in the scenic setting of Lagoa do Abaeté - Itapuã... The rhythms attracting the bands first audience; local children! I accompanied my host Alberto (airbnb.com) to the rehearsals of one of the samba bands he is playing for during the carnival period; Escola de Samba Unidos de Itapuã. Alberto, an experienced tambourin percussionist... Continue Reading →
The carnival in Salvador is in full swing! In every corner of Salvador's historic centre - Pelourinho, lurks something captivating for the camera... And that's before any of the parades have begun! So it goes without saying, I was thankful to discover a press centre for journalist to 'recharge' not just the batteries for their... Continue Reading →
When I learnt Spike Lee was in Salvador for the carnival I instantly put to twitter, using up all my limited character allowance (as though baggage allowance!), my hopes to have an opportunity of interviewing the acclaimed film director! So that very evening when I stood next to Mr Lee himself while Samba band Olodum were... Continue Reading →
So I got my press pass in time for carnival!... Where there is a will, there is a way! Yesterday I met Kwamy Hashid, an Angolan professional photographer (with perhaps the largest lens in the business!) who I accompanied throughout the evening into the night as we whizzed in and out of the parades working... Continue Reading →
This post is inspired by Thiapisto, a blogger writing about her experience travelling through South America for a year! You may have noticed my name change a few weeks ago from 'Findingme' to 'MakingKai'. I think this quote by Thiapisto is so fitting... I had to use it!
With so much going on Salvador Bahia, finding accommodation during this busy carnival season was the least of my worries- thanks to Airbnb! Carnival in Brazil has been on my bucket list of places and things to do for many years. Why not make it a reality in 2013?! And that's exactly what I did!... Continue Reading →
Also known as 'Mami Wata' in many parts of Africa where she originated from, brought to the new world by African slaves. I vaguely recall parts of my childhood spent in Ghana in my grandmother's house, however I do vividly remember my older cousins teasing me by saying; "mami wata will come for you when... Continue Reading →
The relationship between Brazil and Japan goes beyond economic relations between the two countries... It extends to music; samba! I got these shots of this Japanese samba band parading at the festa de Yemaja... They certainly had me on my feet doing a little samba!
By word of mouth the saying goes; African slaves weren't allowed in the churches during the time of slavery and they were made to wash the steps of the churches. Today Lavagem Itapua is a festival paying homage to Afro-Brazilian tradition. The traditional 'Laundering Itapuã' is amongst the most famous and oldest religious festivals that... Continue Reading →
Travelmaker Kai 