Brazil is a country of diverse landscapes and peoples.  Largely recognized for housing much of the Amazon jungle, Brazil remains one of the most pristine natural environments in the world.  While many indigenous tribes continue to inhabit the Amazon, the coastal regions of Brazil are home to a diverse blend of indigenous, criollo, and African descendants, resulting in an extraordinary blend of cultures.  

Salvador, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is situated on the northeast coast of Brazil.  Known as the "city of happiness" due to its seemingly endless festivals and celebrations, the third largest city in Brazil is also one of the oldest in the Americas.  Apparent from the beautiful Portuguese architecture and historical city center, Salvador da Bahía is a living display of a contemporary colorful city with a rich and diverse history.  With about 80% counting on African heritage, modern inhabitants of Salvador have maintained their African cultures to create an Afro-Brazilian cultural hub of Brazil.  Music, religion, food, dance and martial arts are among the cultural aspects that have blended native African customs with local Brazilian influence.