“OCEAN RECREATION: I met Saulo Binot at the church where he sings in the choir. His Stand UP Paddle Board Studio in Vila Vehla is one of the most popular in the region. Stand-UP Paddle-boarding (SUP) is extremely popular in Brasil Lifetime surfer Saulo rents - sells - teaches SUP to ALL ages. He’s a Board-Shaper creating custom boards. You can experience breath-taking landward vistas that aren’t visible any other way!”

“SPEECH DEVELOPMENT: My good friend Linguistics Clinician Tania Soares, works at Clínica Desenvolver, a speech diagnostic & treatment center for children with speech difficulties. Tania specializes in speech & language skills for children affected by Autism. Clínica Desenvolver opened in 2006. Previously local linguistics clinicians & professionals worked in isolation. But needs arose for collaborative work for case studies, discussion & research. The muti-disciplinary Desenvolver comprises speech therapists, clinical psychologists, neuropsychologist, psychologist, neuro-pediatricians & partners in several states. Tania is a Supervisor trained & certified in advanced linguistics at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. A dynamic-modern approach to help children succeed.”

“RETREAT CENTER: My friend Daniel Cardoso, Computer Engineer introduced me to The Reserve Cafe Ranch in a forest. The natural complex is 2 modern ranch-style homes with pond for 4-20 guests. The working ranch produces coffee, bananas & oranges to strict organic standards. Rejuvenate in virgin hilly Atlantic Forest with quaint Santa Teresa village nearby (pop. 21,000). The Reserva Ranch is includes meeting - dining - private spaces for groups gatherings isolated from urban clatter. Nature Hiking trails are plentiful. An ideal venue for group training, planning or academics. Or host Family & Friends for a getaway...”

“Across the Salvador Harbor is the Island of Itaparica. There in the village of Vera Cruz I discovered a gem in the POUSADA SHALON (Inn of Peace). It’s a short block from the beach. I arrived after-hours to a darkened, locked facility. But owner Edelzuita Aquino awakened his family staff to escort me to a choice of pleasing rooms. The following morning I was welcomed to a fruit/cheese & cafe breakfast. Plus full kitchen is available for guests. Vera Cruz is a tropical haven compared to bustling Salvador (pop. 3million) which is a 40 min. ferry boat ride. Edelzuita Aquino Honors the InnKeepers Code for hospitality. Plan your Bahia visit with a stay in Vera Cruz on the Ilha de Itaparica. Call 071 3633 3129 OR 98763 9681. Email: pousadashalon1@bol.com.”

“BEST SHOPPING: Vila Vehla translated means ‘Old Town’ referring to its 1535 settlement. I settled at The Vila Vehla Hostel & Apt. Hotel located 1-block from a HUGE Mall with 300+ stores, 50+ dining options, multi-plex, kids amusements at mid-upper price points. The Itapua neighborhood has urban sophistication that’s heightened by beach access. The boutique Hostel/Hotel offers private & shared rooms in 3 floors. It’s a stylish, clean budget accommodation. Director Adriano (pictured with Assistant, Michelli) is on-duty 24/7. & the beach is a 15 min. stroll by numerous shops, restaurant, snack, market options. The beach features restaurant options on-the-sand or indoors with LIVE music. The City has workout/fitness equipment (adult/children) each 1/2 mile or so. Contact Adriano at The Vila Vehla Hostel & Apt Hotel at (27) 99736-6822.”