Salvador da Bahia, pt.II

Entering our third week back in dreary Belgium, it is time to reminisce about our Brazil trip some more... this series is from our stay in Salvador de Bahia, in the northeast. Tio Mecenas took us on a walking tour of Salvador's historic center, the Pelourinho district. Pelourinho is characterized by colourful colonial houses and lavishly decorated churches. Baianas, women dressed in typical historic outfits, parade in the streets and will take a picture with tourists for a few Brazilian reais.

But first, a hearty breakfast with a view.

Tio Mecenas taking a picture of the Lacerda elevator, the public elevator which connects downtown and uptown.

The Lacerda elevator looking out on the Bahia de Todos os Santos, the Bay of All Saints.

Colourful colonial houses.

They say there is a church for every day of the year in Bahia.

A sandalwood salesman. Smells nice, but a little too potent to transport in a crammed suitcase.

A Baiana walking down the cobblestone street.

Lots of colourful souvenir shops in the Pelourinho area.

The central square of Pelourinho (which is, in fact, triangular - just some trivia for you there).

A volkswagen van making its way through the busy streets.

A baiana luring us to her shop with (free!) ice cold water.

A street artist and his, um, fans.