While it is a sprawling city that stretches as far as the eye can see, it is easy to get around for a tourist via the use of the metro/subway system. It is comparable to the NY subway system, as far as I am concerned because trains are frequent and get close enough to walk to the tourist destinations. (Though for those who live in neighborhoods away from the Centro area, it is a big hassle because a few buses are still needed after getting off the subway).
The big thing that I liked most about the city is its ban on billboard advertising. Looking out into the city without billboards allows one to concentrate on the beauty of the achitecture and colors from the street art.
Street art is supported in the community. One neighborhood in particular has a place called Beco de Batman (translated as Batman Alley- weird name, not sure about its origin) with artwork at almost every wall possible.
By far, one of the most interesting things that I have ever experienced is the Umbanda. In its most simplified description, it is a Brazilian religion with aspects of good, evil and involves spirits entering the physical world and inhabiting bodies of people. From what I observed, people get posessed by spirits and act as spiritual advisors to others who gather in the room. I was allowed to sit in and take photos and was given advice from a few people. No blood sacrifices, just lotsa drumming and singing.
I attended the white ceremony with the good spirits.
There is another ceremony with the Darker Spirits that is held in another room, but this was not the week for it....
No comments:
Post a Comment