VIP Newsletter - December 2007

DESTINATION: BRAZILS CARNIVAL

If you like to party and swing youre hips then youve probably already thought of Brazils most famous fiesta - Carnival. In the land of the fiesta this one takes the cake. This celebration before Easter is considered an act of farewell to the pleasures of the flesh before the period of Lent and therefore can raise and eyebrow or two. Theres plenty of rump shaking, wild costumes, full night parties and general upheaval. Even if youve attended European Carnavals youll find the Brazilian flavour distinct.

The last five days of the Carnival (ending on Shrove Tuesday) are without doubt the most colourful and it is celebrated all over the country. Salvador and Sao Paulo are worth visiting but the most famous celebrations are in the capital Rio de Janeiro. If you thought this city of 10 million was chaotic, you should visit during Carnival!

Rios Carnival is dominated by the samba. Groups known as blocos (blocks) dress in costumes and parade through the streets playing music and dancing. They are generally associated with particular neighbourhoods or samba schools. The citys major samba schools labor year round in preparation for Carnival and compete in a four night parade with an eventual winner declared at the end of the Sambadrome. The parade is a frenzy of sweat, sequins and noise and most enjoyable. Blocos from the samba schools hold street parties in their respective suburbs, through which they parade along with their followers. The great thing is its not just a spectator sport. You can join a samba school and participate. Bring your dancing shoes!

The state of Bahia celebrates a little differently. In Bahia there are more diverse musical rhythms than in Rio, thanks to the multi ethnic population. There are four main types of carnival groups developed in Bahia. The Afoxês use the rhythms of the African inspired religion Candomblé. Trios Elétricos is characterized by a truck equipped with speakers and a platform for musicians playing the axé rhythm. The trucks are followed by people dancing and singing. "Indian" groups are inspired by Western movies from the USA and dress up as native Americans. Blocos Afros is heavily influenced by the Black Pride Movement in the USA, independence movements in Africa and reggae music that denounces racism and oppression.

Visitors to Brazil should keep in mind that the last five days of Carnival are public holidays all over Brazil - therefore most shops will be closed. It also marks the end of the summer holiday period so travel during Carnival time can be difficult. Plan well ahead.

Dancing the samba...
The samba is the true essence of Carnival and any visit to Brazil so youll need to learn. Its mostly about shuffling your feet and swinging your hips but for more than the basics you will need lessons. Gyms, hotels and hostels in the tourist belts of Ipanema and Copacabana host samba classes for beginners. Wear some tight jeans, combined with high heels for the ladies, to look the part. However the samba schools themselves have emergency lessons in the leadup to Carnival as well. You will also need a fantasy (costume) to dance in the parade. Many schools sell these online (up to USD $200), that many sell on their websites. On the night up to 4000 people per school appear in the parade. Let the party spirit and drum beats take you. Bon fiesta!

VIP has hostels all over the world. Take advantage of the VIP card for savings on accommodation, tours and services.