The city of Salvador in Bahia bears the official name of Sao Salvador de la Baia de Todos os Santos, officially translated as ‘Holy Savior of All Saints’ Bay.’ To promote Salvador tourism, residents and officials often refer to the city as Brazil’s capital of happiness. This is manifested through the casual and easy-going nature of its residents and in its prestigious Carnival, considered to be the most well attended in the world. Anyone planning on indulging in Salvador travel would be right to expect an unforgettable time of fun and complete relaxation.
Exploring Salvador Tourism
One of the most prominent structures in the city would be the Lacerda elevator which transports residents and visitors to and from its lower and upper sections. Those keen on enjoying their Salvador travel to the fullest should try riding this elevator during their stay. Apart from its functional purpose, the elevator also provides opportunities for visitors to get a good view of the city’s old parts and catch glimpses of attractions that lend prominence to Salvador tourism.
The lower part of Salvador is also where the historic center of the city is located, the Pelourinho. The area derived its name from the post where slaves used to be chained for punishment and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other highlights of Salvador tourism in Pelourinho would include Rosary of the Blacks church that were built specifically for the African slaves that came into the city in the early years of the city’s history. The history of this particular community is also showcased at the African-Brazilian museum that should be included in the itinerary of Salvador travel.
Other places to explore would be the Terreiro de Jesus, the area’s main square, and the Catedral de Basilica. First time visitors to the city should also take note of the Terca da Bencao or Blessed Tuesday party held at Pelourinho every week. To obtain souvenirs of Salvador travel, visitors can stop by the old building located across the Lacerda elevator, where the Mercado Modelo is located. The items and handicrafts contained within this building were designed to promote Salvador tourism as well as the tourism industry of the whole country. The Mercado Modelo is also a good place to obtain unusual yet affordable artworks.
Tips for Salvador Tourism
As in any other tourist hub in the world, Salvador also has its good and bad sides. Those familiar with Salvador tourism would know the residents of this Brazilian city are generally friendly and accommodating. However, visitors are cautioned against venturing into unfamiliar territories with no accredited guides. It is also good to note in your Salvador travel that the area of Pelourinho is well patrolled by law enforcement officers night and day, lending a sense of security to city’s most famous area.
However, it still won’t do any harm for tourists to leave their valuables in a safe place and not do much explorations after dark. Taking all this into consideration, Salvador tourism is bustling and thriving, lending credence to its beautiful attractions and friendly residents. Another good thing to remember in your Salvador travel would be to take it easy on weekends, especially during Sundays where most people prefer to stay at home and sleep off the fun and partying done the previous evening.
The Salvador tourism industry also actively promotes the city’s beautiful beaches where visitors can lounge about and melt their worries away. Restaurants along the beaches also offer sumptuous seafood dishes that always fresh. Cruises are also offered around the Bay of All Saints, allowing visitors to view the city at a different angle as well as enjoy the cooling ocean breeze at the same time.