Bahai

Bahia is the southernmost states in the northeastern bulge of Brazil. Both regional and state loyalty is extremely high in Bahia despite the state having the highest infant mortality rate in Brazil and having a low average income compared to the rest of Brazil. This region does though have the most attractive beaches and many attractive inland sights, which can be closely compared to Africa’s countryside.

Salvador is the capital of Bahia and is one of Brazil's most historic cities, with a wealth of colonial architecture. The state's coast has many beaches, particularly in the south around Porto Seguro. Inland is the harsh sertao, traversed by the Rio Sao Francisco.

Here are some points that will make your trip more pleasant:
1) Take good care in your personal hygiene and dress to avoid ridicule and to fit in with the locals.
2) Remember to be polite by removing headdress (males) and shaking hands and waits for a reply before proceeding.
3) Be patient and don’t criticise.
4) When taking photographs with locals in them, always ask permission.
5) Generally be wary of what you do to avoid offending or causing trouble.

Most of Brazil can be visited comfortably throughout the year - it's only the south, which can be unbearably sticky in summer and non-stop rainy in winter, that has extreme seasonal changes. With many Brazilians on summer vacation from December to February, travel can be difficult and expensive, while from Rio to the south the humidity can be oppressive.
Summer is also the most festive time of year, as Brazilians escape their apartments and take to the beaches and streets. School holidays begin in mid-December and go through to Carnaval, usually in late February.