Salvador certainly won't be any problem. At least not for you. When I got
there I was referred to as a ghost because I was white ;-) I am not that
pale,
but I'm "white". But I saw the humour in it. Most people are black here
because this is the area closer to Africa and lot's of slaves were shipped
here (so I've heard).
The more south you go ( eg Rio) the more european influence you will meet,
but much racism?....nah don't think so. Lot's of black inhabitants (but less
than in Bahia) and tourists in Rio.
Carnival? Depends on what you want. I haven't seen the carnival in Salvador,
but I have been there and heard a lot about it. I have a feeling that the
Carnival in Rio is more a show for the tourists (and a very spectacular
one I might add since I've seen it). A special arena called Sambodrome
is used for the event.
I think the carnival in Salvador is more of a peoples party where everyone
participate.
Crime? Yes indeed. But take precautions and limit the probability. Know what
to do if it happens (right then and after). Do not play a hero if faced with
robbers (they might have hidden weapons even if you don't see them first).
Never carry "shiny" jewellry and watches. Do not bring much money. Take
a taxi ...and especially when it's dark. Split your money in several pockets
when you carry them on you. Bring only one card for each time out so
you have one spare if you have to close it. Etc etc.
Borge
"Curious" wrote in message
news:162c0edd.0310111235.117a1aaa@posting.google.com...
> Hello World,
> My name is Dee and 5 friends and myself are planning a trip to
> beautiful Brazil in Feb. of 2004. We have been trying to get to Brazil
> for Carnival the past two years. 2004 will be the year for us.
>
> I've been researching information online about Brazil. Read both
> positive and negative comments about this country. The positives
> consist of the obvious "beautiful country, people, culture, and
> beaches.." The negative are commonly posted in the newsgroups "crime,
> racism, political environment..." Natuarally I'm concerned with the
> negative comments. Mostly with the racism comments that I have come
> across. (I'm African-American(black lol) and last thing I need is to
> leave the USA for another racist country.
>
> I'm looking for stories, personal experiences, knowledge of Rio and
> Salvador. I would like to know what people think and know of both
> these cities. I've read that Salvador is much better for Carnival but
> at the same time growing up in NYC the only city that you ever hear
> about in Brazil is Rio.
>
> I'm looking for information on apartment/hotel rental, clubs(we're
> straight), restaurants, tourist attractions, beaches, locals, etc.....
>
> I've seen mostly positive articles about Brazil. I look forward for
> any input that you may have.
>
> -Curious Dee
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