Salvador de Bahia, Brazil

After five continuous days at sea we were all excited about walking on dry land again. I would still be excited about the “dry” part. Salvador de Bahia, Brazil is so HUMID. Walking several miles is a lot like swimming several miles in very uncomfortable swimwear. While we are totally challenged by the humidity the locals seem to be unaware, dancing, beating drums and running through the streets.  The amazing ability of the human body to adapt, is something to behold.

Other observations: The city is suffering from severe deferred maintenance. Concrete is in bad shape in both buildings and walkways, there are lots of broken utility covers in the street along with missing cobble stones wich make for uneven footing.

The city is an armed camp with a large, highly visible presence of city, state and military law enforcement well armed on foot and driving compact Chevrolets or riding two up on small Honda motorcycles; each service having different colored uniforms and weaponry. I saw a lot to two gun rigs with a holster on the belt and another velcroed to the thigh below with a another pistol. I decided not to try to document all this in photos, although everybody in law enforcement appeared friendly if not cheerful. Perhaps this was to protect tourists as we were warned of prevalent street crime and there are three cruise ship in port today. The streets were crowded but we felt perfectly safe.

Souvenir stands were everywhere. The old city was up on a ridge accessible by elevator. The lower city is down by the docks and commercial area. When we got back to the ship after a couple of hours in the heat and humidity we took our second showers of the day, put our clothes in the washing machine and looked for an air conditioned dining room onboard the ship. Ah! Cool and dry and good fried fish for lunch. All of a sudden I appreciate the constant breeze that comes with being at sea.

Had dinner with two couples from our Men’s and Women’s Bible studies last night. Great time!