Love or hate social media, one thing it doesn't fail on doing is being outlet for calling out offence. And that's exactly what I woke up to today as my Instagram feed continuously shared posts about Vogue Brasil director's lavish colonial-themed bash... Admittedly I had no idea the exact extend of the outcry, until this... Continue Reading →
Tabom No Brasil: Arriving in Salvador da Bahia
I arrived in Salvador da Bahia, the land my Tabom ancestors left close to 200 years ago for their freedom in West Africa, more specifically Accra Ghana (then the Gold Coast). I almost didn't include Salvador in this Brazil trip after flight prices sky rocketed due to the holidays, and my credit card suddenly not... Continue Reading →
Beyond Your World – Beyond Brazil!
"Ongoing demonstrations, the upcoming World Cup, preparations for the Olympic Games and approaching elections - 2014 is considered to be a very important year for Brazil. Consequently, many stories are out there waiting to be covered. Beyond Your World would like to make a big contribution with this special project and needs your help!" On... Continue Reading →
From Candomblé to Voudun… Eshu to Shango… These are a few of his favourite things.
When I met Dionisis Kostakis on my second day in Rio de Janeiro in December last year, there was little about him, if nothing at all, that indicated his unusual hobby. With beach blond hair and subtly tanned olive skin, I took him to be yet another European who had ditched the struggling economy of... Continue Reading →
The month of August: Paying homage to my ancestry
This month of August, I would like to pay homage to my Tabom (Afro-Brazilian returnees to Ghana) ancestors by remembering their legacy. It occurred to me that there are a string of significant events and coincidences that took place during the month of august that are somehow in twined with Tabom history, and as a descendant; this... Continue Reading →
Maira’s List: Top 5 places to visit in Salvador!
Salvador da Bahia! Historically known as the "City of the Holy Saviour of the Bay of all Saints". Brazil's vibrant Afro-Brazilian capital, renowned for its positive energy (which by the way is contagious) and happy people, has had an immense impact on me since my arrival earlier this year. So to say goodbye not just to the city... Continue Reading →
Passport to Reality… The right time
This morning I think God decided He'd had enough of me whining about not wanting to leave Brazil! And rightly so. I mean, I know he says I can talk to him about anything, but I forget that he has a trillion or so other voices to listen to. Like a spoilt child demanding what... Continue Reading →
Praia do Forte and enjoying Acaraje!
The former fishing village still holds much of its rustic charm and character. If sun, sea and sand are on your wish list, away from the overwhelming bustle of Salvador, then Praia do Forte is for you! It's definitely worth the short trip away from the capital of Bahia, where you'll find other tourists seeking the same... Continue Reading →
Jewel in the heart of Pelourinho… H.Stern
You may be familiar with the Brazilian jewellers H.Stern which has stores located internationally, including world-famous Harrods in Knightsbridge London. If you're a lover of all things beautiful, don't be surprised to find yourself in drawn towards the H.Stern store located in the heart of Salvador's historical district, Pelourinho. Bahia's influence has proudly found its way... Continue Reading →