The Magnificent Ocean Blue of Bahia, Brazil

When I first ventured to Bahia, not knowing a word of Portuguese, I was seeking to learn the rhythms of the samba. I arrived at the Mercure; I was immediately drawn in by the crashing waves against black jagged rocks on the private beach. White seafoam spraying high into the air as fisherman with just a line and hook, tried to bring home a fish.

On my first visit to the neighborhood of Rio Vermelho, it had a large fisherman dock. The celebrity travel chef, Anothony Bourdain visited the very same fishing dock on his show and ate with the fisherman. Since then, fisherman dock has been replaced by trendy restaurants and night clubs more suited for tourists.

Today, on my visit, I found the Mercure Salvador Rio Vermelho modern style is still nestled at the end of a cul-de-sac. The hotel provides a safe and relaxing place to begin Brazilian adventures. Located in the Bohemian neighborhood of Rio Vermelho in Salvador, the hotel is close to nightlife and restaurants but not in the middle of the action.

The Mercure Salvador Rio Vermelho is a busy business hotel, hosting conferences and business meetings. Professionals come and go smartly dressed. The hotel services staff, friendly, professional and multilingual, speaking English, Spanish, German and Portuguese. Bahia is known for its warm hospitality.

My wife and I had a business coffee with the Guest Services manager; she provided us with more insight on their services. There is valet service and street parking. The hotel is very clean, bright, airy with natural color tones. I mean spotless. Our room was business smart and functional. The queen-size bed was roomy and very comfortable. Bathrooms were average-sized. Rooms have a desk, a TV and a mini bar with snacks.

You may ask, what is special about this hotel? The ocean view is spectacular!

The ocean was so huge and blue in our bedroom window, you would think we were on a cruise ship! The curtains were thin lace; we could see the ocean through them. The rooms are accented with seafoam blue. The best part was at night, we opened the windows to hear the crashing ocean waves below and experienced a deep relaxing sleep.

The breakfast buffet is extra, yet worth every penny. Great selection. The restaurant has tables on a balcony, overlooking the sea. The highlight of the day was the infinity pool! Palm trees sway as white umbrellas dance in the breeze. Cocktails and seafood were served poolside. Life poolside in Bahia is very good.

At night, we explored the variety of restaurants and nightlife. Live Brazilian music is plentiful! Salvador is the city of music and Bahia culture. Mercure Salvador Rio Vermelho is a fabulous place to relax and experience its rhythms.

Mercure Salvador Rio Vermelho is a hidden gem, an excellent entry point for anyone new to visiting Bahia. Modestly priced. The service, food, hospitality and the infinity pool will exceed your expectations. The neighborhood of Rio Vermelho is very walkable, great for couples, friends and foodies seeking restaurants, live music and night life! Contact me to plan your Brazilian vacation.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Brazil. In need of further inspiration? Check out Howard Tucker's trip report, Breathtaking Sunset in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil