The former fishing village still holds much of its rustic charm and character. If sun, sea and sand are on your wish list, away from the overwhelming bustle of Salvador, then Praia do Forte is for you! It's definitely worth the short trip away from the capital of Bahia, where you'll find other tourists seeking the same... Continue Reading →
“Go Brazil Go” Spike Lee documents on Brazil
I was honoured to meet Spike Lee while he's in Bahia during the carnival. Spike Lee is no stranger to Brazil nor the people to him, as in 1996 Mr Lee directed Michael Jackson's "They Don't Care About Us" music video featuring Salvador Afro-Brazilian Samba band; Olodum. When I met the acclaimed African-American director in... Continue Reading →
Carnival da Bahia… Ouro Negro!
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.
Practice makes perfect… Escola de Samba Unidos de Itapuã!
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 →
Press stop- Pelourinho!
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 →
Spike Lee captures Carnival in Maragojipe!
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 →
A taste of Carnival in Salvador… Press pass access!
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 →
Experience Carnival… with Airbnb!
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 →
Carnival has arrived early!
This weekend is an opportunity to experience carnival- for free! And we like FREE. Yes we- that's me, Jean and Alberto. An interesting trio we make. Myself from London, Jean from Belgium and Alberto (a travel journalist!!) from Italy. We share a common interest to experience the best of Rio! Yesterday was the first day... Continue Reading →