I hadn't planned on visiting Salvador because I didn't know anyone here, but while talking to a fellow Nelsonite who travelled around Brazil, he gave me the name of a friend here. We got chatting on Facebook and found that we were born only two days apart and have a lot in common! Joanna met me at the airport on Sunday and after not much time, it was like we had been friends for years. On Sunday evening, we went out for dinner with her friend, Gil, who is a super nice guy. We shared a few Mojitos and plenty laughter.
On Monday, I went with Joanna to watch her Jiu Jitsu class. Jiu Jitsu is a martial art created in Brazil, based on the floor techniques of Judo and wrestling. The training gym is near the beach, so I went for a run in the rain along the boardwalk to the old forts. On the way home, we stopped by a café to try Tapioca... no, not pudding like in Canada, this is a type of grilled sandwich in a gooey manioc flour tortilla. In the afternoon Joanna went to work (in a law firm) and I started the writing course I am doing online.
In the evening, Gil took me to Pelorinho, the historical centre. It was originally the place where slaves were punished, but now it is a touristy place with many hostels, shops and restaurants lining the steep cobblestone streets. There I tried Cravinho, a drink made by infusing the local hard liquor with various spices. It was amazingly delicious! I also got to watch a live samba band and experience part of a Condomblé ceremony. Candomblé is a type of local religion that worships various African deities. They perform animal sacrifies, give offerings and dance to very lively rythms until the spirits descend and are manifested in the worshippers. When Joanna finished her evening classes, we picked her up and all went out to a very nice restaurant. There we had Moqueca, a fish stew made with a thick, flavourful peanut sauce.
Today I'm studying some more and getting everything ready to fly to Recife this evening. Again, I wish I had so much more time here!
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