SalvadorCapital of the state of Bahia, Salvador means saviour, which reflects the religion and mysticism that is a large part of Bahian life. The city is an assault on the senses: gold-encrusted altars, colonial facades, African influenced food, sounds of street vendors shouting, the chant of a soccer crowd and the distinctive sounds and rhythm of Bahian music. The colonial churches - according to legend there are 365 of them with one for each day of the year - give the city an historic feel. The city's superb beaches give it a lovely laid back atmosphere and this is where the sounds of Candomble - an African and Catholic blend of religions, are combined with typical Bahian flair to create the pulsating, hypnotic rhythm, which provides a means for contacting their Gods. Salvador is also home to several festivals, which bring the entire city together every year. Officially, Carnival in Brazil lasts for 4 days, from Saturday to the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, but in Salvador it is practically a summer long event. There are pre-Carnival balls and on weekends the streets are alive with revellers gearing up for the main event. The city is a place to relax and experience pure Brail. TO SEE AND DO IN SALVADOR Full day city tour. Begin with a drive along the coast to visit the fortress of Santo Antonio. Return to Salvador for a visit of the upper city, including visits to Castro Alves theatre, Piedade square and the municipal square offering views of the upper and lower cities. Start the walking tour of the lower city with visits to several churches, the Modelo market and Pelourinho square, appointed by UNESCO as the most important colonial complex of the 17th & 18th centuries. Full day boat and beaches around All Saints Bay. Board a 'saveiro', a traditional Bahian schooner for the cruise around the bay. From the boat you have superb views of the city, Modelo market and Sao Marcelo fortress. Sail to Frade's Island where you have the opportunity to swim and relax on the tropical beach. Continue on to Itaparica Island and visit the mineral water fountain and some of the island's historical monuments. Lunch is taken on the boat followed by a slow sail back to port. Praia do Forte. Praia do Forte is located 80km north of Salvador and is a resort with beautiful beaches. Your drive follows Coconut road where you will make several stops to swim from virgin beaches. Praia do Forte was originally a small fisherman's village with 12km of white sand beaches, reefs and coconut trees. The remainder of the day you are free to explore this fantastic coastline at leisure.
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