Bahia Is Calling

A slice of the Brazilian coastal life is just a sleep away from the GCC

by travel-expert José Berrocoso

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For GCC explorers, there is nothing more magical than the opportunity to chase the sun to the other side of the world, with a number of direct flights to far-flung locales and antipodean destinations. And if there is one region that should be tugging at our collective wanderlust right now, it is the Discovery Coast, a region in southern coast of Bahia, where summer is just about to set in (October – March).

Thanks to direct flights from the UAE to Brazil, the Discovery Coast is the coastal paradise perfect for a fall getaway. Here, historical sites and luxurious resorts sit snug against a multi-hued landscape blessed nature’s bounty and its vibrant nightlife gives way to bucolic days that feed the soul.

Just one sleep in the sky away, Discovery Coast in Bahia is the bucketlist destination that will delight the GCC’s most discerning beach heads, globetrotters and culture vultures.

www.visitbrasil.com.br

For the beach buzz: Porto Seguro

Porto Seguro is the magic ticket for those looking to enjoy a slice of the Brazilian coastal life, especially with the little ones. With beautiful beaches, all-inclusive resorts, historical sights and restaurants, the city is the ideal sanctuary for families to unwind, enjoy and rediscover the vibes of their summer vacay. The star attraction are the beaches; from lively strips to almost deserted sandy sanctuaries, all framed by coconut trees and dotted by natural pools. It is the magical setting where memories are made.

Getting there: Porto Seguro is served by Porto Seguro Airport (BPS), the main airport for the southern region of Bahia. Emirates flies to Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, with several connecting flights to BPS.

For the tranquillity: Trancoso

A tonic for the city-weary, Trancoso is a sight for sore eyes and minds. Vibrantly coloured houses are set picture-perfect against rosy-hued cliffs and an aquamarine sea – a scene that promises luscious days of sun-bathing, swimming and relaxing under the welcoming shadow of coconut groves. With its unique architecture, joy-inspiring festivals and cultural richness, Trancoso is a place of discovery and rejuvenation.

Getting there: Trancoso is 77 km from Porto Seguro Airport (BPS), the main airport for the southern region of Bahia, which welcomes flights from Sao Paulo. Emirates flies to Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, with several connecting flights to BPS. Trancoso is accessible by car, taxi or private transfer.

For the slow life: Caraíva

A hidden gem, Caraíva is a rustic getaway that lives and breathes an authentic coastal life. New to creature comforts (the village only recently got on the grid), it boasts no cars or paved roads but is brimming with rural hospitality and showstopping landscapes. Charming inns provide secluded yet safe options to completely switch-off and reset amidst the natural beauty of the village. It is the perfect destination to kick off those Havaianas, feel the wind, take in the scent of the sea and enjoy the barefoot life.

How to get there: Caraíva is 70

km from Porto Seguro Airport (BPS), the main airport for the southern region of Bahia, which welcomes airlines from Sao Paulo Emirates flies to Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, with several connecting flights to BPS. Caraíva is accessible by car, taxi, public transport, or private transfer.