Cautious but robbed in Brazil
No matter how cautious we tried to be in certain parts of the world, positive vibe and incredible beauty of Brazilian city Salvador da Bahia made us too relaxed and we learned our lesson in less than a second….
It was year 2012. when my wife and I took our 19 months old son, on an epic cruise trip from Europe to Brazil. I promise to write plenty of exciting articles about this fascinating journey, but this story is about safety in Brazil. No matter how prepared and cautious we are in Brazil, robbery or theft can happen.
Beside Rio de Janeiro, one of the most picturesque historical cities in Brazil, Salvador da Bahia was ready to be explored on a full day tour with a local guide. Mixture of exotic vegetation and spectacular monuments was dominating this former hub of slave trade. Just stepping out of the cruise ship, it was clear that something highly traditional and important was happening in the city.
Colorful Pelourinho Old Town, Salavdor da Bahia
As a part of former Portuguese colonial kingdom, Brazil passionately celebrates all important Catholic religious festivities. We were right there, on December 8th, experiencing famous Feast of Immaculate Conception of Virgin Mary. It celebrates XIX c dogma, claiming that Virgin Mary was born purified and without the original sin. In Salvador da Bahia, dedication to the Mother of Jesus is perfectly combined with festive atmosphere, celebration and enjoyment all over.
Streets were packed with locals, samba music vibrating on every corner, typical food was offered in smoky, authentic kiosks or traditional old taverns. Our group reached Lacerda elevator connecting lower with upper city of Salvador da Bahia. After quick translation into colonial world, the old heart of the city was waiting for us…
Lower Town, Slavador da Bahia
From golden interior of San Francis’s church to colorful facades of Pelourinho district, we were blown by history, architecture and cheerful people. On our way back, walking down to reach the port, we were overwhelmed and relaxed, while in the same time, advices on safety in Brazil were constantly in our ears. Avoid huge crowd, dress up in a modest way, with no watches or jewelry, be cautious and bring only small amounts of money, were just a part of safety in Brazil repertoire. It was my responsibility to repeat that all the time. So far, everything went perfect. The whole group, together with my family, really looked like a bunch of locals. Beach shorts, old t-shirt, a hat, small camera and 100$ in the pocket. Perfectly ready and safe, we thought.
Local bright colored art, Pelourinho
Souvenir shop, Salvador da Bahia
Central square bar atmosphere, Salvador da Bahia
It was just one busy street, with traffic light to cross, and we were out of crowd, on our way to cruise ship. Green light for us came up, with me and a few more gentlemen from our group around my wife. We just started crossing when I heard a scream from my wife. At the moment when I looked at her, local thief was already far from us, running so fast and entering party crowd on the nearby square. Calling police? Oh forget about that, specially during festivities. Chasing a thief? Who knows what else we could experience if gang members are close, and those guys never work alone. We were all shocked, figuring out what actually happened, but at least nobody was hurt. The only thing missing was my wife’s necklace: very tiny golden one with a small cross on it. She did not consider it as a piece of jewelry. It was a part of herself, never being taken off for a second. She wore that necklace all the time, for years.
African warrior statue, Salvador da Bahia
Unfortunately, exposed tiny piece of jewelry was enough to cause theft and mark our Salvador visit forever. How fast and precise everything was done. We simply could not believe. But those things happen in Brazil, any other destination, or a big city. We all learned a lesson for sure, not letting it to disturb our amazing experience in Salvador.
We were sailing further, observing cheerful people on the beaches around Salvador da Bahia. They were so proud to live in Brazilian capital of happiness. We were truly ready to face all challenges and discover more of Brazil – one of the exotic destinations to dream about.
Travel Authentic. Live Inspired.
Local cycling buddies, Salvador da Bahia
Notice: images are made by Jonnie World Walker team
Ready to explore more?
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Before traveling to Brazil, always refer to a detailed travel advisory provided by your country’s government. Check out these caution measures for Brazil, issued by the U.S. Department of State.
Photo by travel.state.gov
