At the end of the year, The New York Times made a list of 52 places worth exploring in 2019. Salvador, the former capital of Brazil, ranks 14th. “After completing a five-year historical preservation initiative to save its UNESCO designation, Salvador, with its ice cream-colored colonial facades, cobblestone streets, and beaches, is shining. Rising along the northeastern coast of Bahia, the historic district of the city center pulses with vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture 
, ranging from free weekly samba performances and drumming groups to classical music and capoeira. Visitors can also find Salvador’s history showcased at the new Casa do Carnaval and, opening in 2020, the Museum of Music, or attend a live concert at the Salvador Convention Center, which opens this year. The Fera Palace Hotel, a renovated art deco gem, and the newly inaugurated Fasano Salvador, set in a former 1930s newspaper building, both overlook the Bay of All Saints. The new Salvador metro line conveniently connects the city center to the expanding international airport, where the weekly direct flight from Miami by Latam lands” – Nora Walsh
More about Salvador
Salvador is the capital of the state of Bahia, a place known for its natural beauty, the kindness of its people, and the 
strong influence of African culture.
The movements of capoeira — a martial art that resembles a dance —, the scents and flavors of delicacies, the religious mix, and cultural diversity are samples of the happiness of a people who know, perhaps because they are surrounded by natural beauty, the true meaning of life. The city is also home to one of the most vibrant and popular carnival celebrations in the country.
The first capital of Brazil preserves an important historic center, designated as a UNESCO Cultural Heritage site: Pelourinho, which gives visitors the opportunity to visit Brazilian baroque churches and century-old mansions.
There are more than 300 churches in Salvador. One of them is the Church of São Francisco, recognized for its grandeur. 
Another important attraction is the Church of Senhor do Bonfim, one of the greatest symbols of religious mixture in Bahia.
In Salvador, Catholicism coexists with African religions, bringing together Iemanjá and Our Lady of Conception, Iansã and Saint Barbara, Our Lord of Bonfim and Oxalá. African culture is also present in music and dance, as seen in capoeira.
In cuisine, African ingredients predominate, such as dendê oil, coconut milk, ginger, and pepper. Acarajé, caruru, and vatapá are internationally famous typical dishes, 
which can be enjoyed right there on the trays of the baianas.
Major football matches take place at Arena Fonte Nova. Originally built in 1951, it was reconstructed in 2013, with a capacity of 50,000 people, and now hosts concerts and events.
Salvador is a great gateway for those intending to visit the Coconut Coast, Dendê Coast, and Chapada Diamantina. In Bahia, there are places where nature is beautifully preserved; the state also has several resorts and inns, well-equipped to welcome tourists.
Source: Embratur