Salvador, Brazil

• Salvador was Brazil's first colonial capital and has one of the country's largest Afro-Brazilian populations. The city splits into two zones - the Upper City (Cidade Alta) with colonial architecture in Pelourinho, and the Lower City (Cidade Baixa) along the coast with beaches like Porto da Barra.
• Each neighborhood has a different character. Pelourinho is the UNESCO historic area, safe during the day but empties out at night. Barra and Rio Vermelho are the main areas where you can walk around in the evening - they have decent lighting and regular police patrols.
• People sit alone in cafes here without it being weird. English works in tourist areas and upscale hotels, but you'll need basic Portuguese elsewhere. The tourist police (DELTUR) at (71) 3116-6817 have English speakers available 24/7 if you need help.
• Use Uber or the local 99 app for getting around - they're safer than other options, especially at night. Crime rates in Salvador are high, so don't pull out your phone on the street, skip the jewelry, and stick to the main tourist neighborhoods like Barra, Rio Vermelho, and Pelourinho during daytime.

Portuguese is the main language. English works with tourist police (DELTUR) at (71) 3116-6817, in upscale hotels, and some tourist area restaurants. Tourist police have English speakers available 24/7. Download Google Translate for everywhere else.

• Over 80% of Salvador's population is Afro-descendant. Candomblé is a major religious tradition here - don't photograph ceremonies unless you're explicitly told it's okay, and don't interrupt spiritual gatherings.
• Cover your shoulders and knees for churches and historic sites. Beach neighborhoods are casual, but locals generally dress better than the typical tourist shorts-and-sandals look.
• You need Portuguese here. English is limited to tourist hotels and nicer restaurants. Learn the basics: 'Olá' (hello), 'Obrigada' (thank you - for women), 'Por favor' (please), 'Quanto custa?' (how much?). Download Google Translate before you go.
• In Pelourinho, if a street vendor hands you something or performs for you, they're expecting payment. Just say no thanks upfront if you're not interested.
• Local food includes acarajé (fried bean cakes), moqueca (seafood stew), and dishes cooked in dendê palm oil. The food is rich and spicy - start with small portions if you have a sensitive stomach.
• Carnival in February is huge here. The Barra-Ondina circuit is the safer option if you go. Join a bloco (parade group) or get a camarote (viewing box) ticket for better security, and leave valuables at your hotel.

• Uber and 99 (local ride-sharing app) are your best bet, especially at night. They're cheap and you can track the driver, which is why most people use them over other options.
• Public buses run around R$5.20 - you can pay cash or use a SalvadorCard. There's a newer BRT system with electric buses that moves a lot of people, but don't take buses at night if you don't know the city well.
• You can walk around neighborhoods like Barra's waterfront and Largo de Santana in Rio Vermelho during the day without issues. Pelourinho has cobblestone streets, so wear decent shoes. After dark, only walk in well-lit areas with police around, like the Barra-Ondina stretch.
• Regular taxis exist but if you use them, call one through your hotel. Uber and 99 are easier and you know what you're paying upfront.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Salvador with local guides and curated experiences.