Carnival time In Brazil?
When the country Brazil is mentioned, a myriad of bright colours, lively dance and the whirl of a fast-tempo beat spring to mind in an instant – but apart from this carnival-style life, what greater cultural depths does Brazil have to offer? The most well-known of the carnivals, The Rio carnival, is certainly not the only one. In fact, most cities, large or small, in the country organise a carnival and all vary in type. The Carnatal, the off-season carnival of Natal, usually takes place in the beginning of December and creates an atmosphere of party for all involved. A 3km area of the city is sectioned off for this purpose and large trucks (trio elétrico) parade slowly through, showcasing top musical talent and encouraging the crowds to dance, sing and jump around to the music. Colourful, lively and fun, the Carnatal proves a highly popular event and draws crowds from far and wide.
Carnival is not, however, the only stimulating cultural aspect to life in Brazil. The varied mix of nationalities creates an eclectic melting pot of culture which includes music, dance, food, language and art. There are also fine examples of Brazilian architecture to be found, with the city of Brasilia, built in 1956, as a striking illustration. With the residential and administrative districts said to be laid out in the shape of a bird in flight, it is not hard to see why the city is known by many as the greatest modernist project of the 20th century and a “concrete Picasso”.
Apart from music and art, Brazilian culture is also steeped in tradition and festivals such as Festa Junina which primarily takes place in north-eastern Brazil between 12th and 29th June is one such example. This festival of Saint John includes bonfires, folk dancing and fireworks. Another folk-tradition is Bumba Meu-Boi which is celebrated in Sao Luis. This folk dance is a re-enactment of a tale of a farm labourer where people dress up as oxen and other animals and dance and parade through the streets, creating a real sense of community involvement.
Another unusual example of Brazilian folk dance is the Capoeira, of the Natal region. This is a dance using martial arts movements and is a blatant example of Brazilian pop culture. These individuals not only teach this dance-like movement but also use it for education and health activities in local society. If you would like to experience this area for yourself and invest in a piece of Brazilian culture, you can buy a property in the Sol do Atlantico development between Natal and Pipa.
Experience International have developed a range of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments situated just 150m from white sandy beaches. Not only culturally resplendent, the area is also considered one of the most beautiful locations in the whole of Brazil and therefore the apartments boast stunning views. Unique properties surrounded by maintained pools and with top-floor apartments having roof terraces and Jacuzzis, this is a sought-after development. Close to local amenities and just 35 minutes from the international airport, Sol do Atlantico is an excellent investment opportunity and with prices starting at just £44,000 / €65,000, these are properties not to be missed.
For more information, visit experience-international.com.
