I’m not sure I ever really appreciated that Brazil is about as large as the lower 48 US states. After Rio, we toured the northern coast towns of Salvador, Recife and Fortaleza. We enjoyed beautiful beaches, a dune ride through the desert, friendly people, and some unique cultures. Salvador and Recife were key ports for the slave trade and thus have a vibrant Afro-Brazilian feel.
We saw a fascinating demonstration of Capoeira, a “dance” developed by slaves who were not allowed to defend themselves with weapons. It was really a thinly disguised form of martial arts that has now become a discipline.
Capoeira demo
Between men, it looks a bit like “air” kick-boxing, but solo dancers also perform. It must take amazing endurance, strength and balance. Take a look at the short video below if you want a new work-out regime!
In Recife, we went to a beach with great body-surfing waves. I was having a great time until a pregnant woman came running into the surf warning me to get out. Turns out there were about 5 large sharks moving in my direction. We later learned that that beach is the most shark infested in the world – any wonder no one was swimming! As we left for lunch we saw the warning signs, so I couldn’t help but take a few pictures for Debra’s Facebook account.
A 2 minute Capoeira video:
D & D Adventures 