‘Notes from the field – Brazil’ is the latest in our series of blogs following the Sunvil team as they explore our destinations in search of hidden gems and to handpick our holiday accommodation. Written by Will, a member of our expert Latin America team, this piece details his experiences in Brazil and the highlights from his trip.
Favourite Property
My favourite property was the Pousada do Ouro in Paraty. This is a charming little pousada tucked away in a quiet back street and a great base for exploring the historic town centre. It has a lovely swimming pool and bar where they make great Caipirinhas (the national drink). Celebrities who have stayed here include Mick Jagger and Annie Lennox.
Pousada do Ouro Paraty
Favourite Viewpoint
My favourite viewpoint was from a beach on Ilha Grande. A stunning view across the sea to the mainland and mountains beyond.
Ilha Grande
Favourite Activity
A night-time Caiman hunt at the Amazon Ecopark Jungle Lodge in Manaus. We spent half an hour looking for a Caiman and then our expert guide caught a small one to give us a closer look. After a few photos we released it back into the river.
Caiman
Favourite Beach
It has to be the Ferradura Beach (Horseshoe Beach) in Buzios. It is located in an upmarket part of the town and has golden sand and crystal clear water.
Best Meal
My best meal was at the Cuco Bistro in Salvador. It was a local seafood dish called ‘Moqueca’ made with prawns and chunks of fish cooked in a cassava sauce – perfection!
Moqueca
Highlight of the Trip
The highlight of my trip was my visit to Salvador. This is a really vibrant city where 80% of the population is of African origin, many of whom follow the African Candomblé religion as well as the Catholic religion. The city has a charming historic centre (Pelourinho) with many colonial buildings, interesting museums and a big live music scene. There are three designated music stages in the old town and drum bands can regularly be seen walking through the streets. A point of interest is that Michael Jackson made his ‘They don’t care about us’ video in the streets around the Pelourinho.
Pelourinho Square, Salvador
Salvador
Largo do Cuzeiro de Sao Francisco, Salvador
General Feel About Brazil
Brazil is a huge and diverse country with many fascinating places to visit that will suit all tastes and interests. However, due to the size of the country you need to be sensible and try not to visit too many places during one trip. I found the Brazilians to be fun loving and very welcoming.