Porto Seguro: Land of the Big Barraca
porto seguro (January 16, 2010)
Visitors arriving in Porto Seguro for the first time are often surprised by what they see. It’s a common misconception that Porto Seguro is a quaint, Bahian-style beach village. Porto Seguro has a very particular appeal. Specifically, it appeals to young, working class Brazilians. It offers everything that this group desires: sun and sand, mobs of people dancing and pulsating together, and lots of food and cold beer. As famous as it is, and as appealing as the beach-blanket party atmosphere can be, the truth is that Porto Seguro was not made for you and me. It’s full of all the things Brazilians like and only a few of the things that foreigners like. Most of the things that foreigners like, lie in the surrounding coastal regions to the north and south, away from Porto Seguro.
Of course, that doesn’t mean you should avoid the place as there are some redeeming factors–like the excellent prices for food and accommodations, including many resort-style hotels. Another great thing about Porto Seguro is the quantity and variety of shopping you’ll find there. Shops line the coastal road and in the evening when the Passarelo de Alcool revs up, you’ll find even more stands with local artisans selling their wares. Finally, you should not miss the historical city of Porto Seguro, which rests on the high plateau, watching over the city and beaches below. The view alone is worth the hike up there.
