Recife: A True Brazilian Carnaval!

Not having enjoyed the Pre-Carnival event in JoAo Pessoa, I was not enthused about the other upcoming trips to Carnival venues. Of course, I didn't want to miss any of the experiences, so onto the bus we went again! At least the air conditioning was worth the trip.

Actually, we had been told that the Carnivals in Recife and Olinda were two of the best and most traditional. That being said, I had a different set of expectations. And rightly so! The Recife outing started at 14:00 (2 PM) when we all piled onto the coach bus and started the drive to Recife. We would gather again at the bus at 01:00 or 1 AM so it was going to be a long evening.

Since it was a nighttime event, once again we were warned of safety precautions: no purses, no large camera, take only money you won't mind losing, keep your pockets free of valuables, stay in small groups, have a defined meeting place, etc. We were still in Brazil - and it was party time. That is a good opportunity for thieves to make their grabs especially from tourists.

I had my small inexpensive camera strapped to my body with two different tethers. I also kept it in a pocket out of sight most of the time. Dennis kept our money in several different places, including in his shoes. Fortunately, we had no problems that night.

Actually, the whole evening was very much a family affair. The locals were dressed in costumes and the children were cute. I loved the way they all participated in the fun with their creativity. It is obviously something to which they look forward each year. Somewhat like a week long Halloween when no one goes to work!

There were stages throughout the city with different kinds of music in each area. There were some big name Brazilian entertainers were headliners, but we did not know any of them and could not understand the lyrics. Between acts of the stages, groups in fabulous costumes paraded across the stages.


















Here are some of the costumes:

Dennis was happy to taste a variety of street food. I declare he will eat anything! Me - not so much! Fortunately, we were able to find places for all of us to sit and rest from time to time. Pushing along with the crowds on cobblestone streets is a bit challenging at times.

Bob isn't too sure about whatever this is!

Our good friends, Merc and Bob, from Chicago had joined us in Cabedelo to finish the final World ARC leg with us. We first met them in Panama when we were preparing to pass through the Panama Canal. Actually, Merc and I first met over a couple of rum punches that were way too strong for both of us! It still gives us a good laugh. Then we were rafted along side a catamaran, Vivo, when we went through the canal.