Samba: The Heartbeat of Brazil

Last Sunday's New York Times featured a great article on Lapa - a neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro that has enjoyed a nostalgic rebirth in recent years. During the day, Lapa's Avenida Lavradio is full of antique shops and restaurants that are worth checking out, and if you’re in the mood to swing to the sounds of a samba at night, this is the place to go. After dark, music from the various clubs fills the air beckoning you to dance the night away.

The Samba rhythm originated from the Afro-Brazilian culture and soon became a national symbol of Brazil – a community dance to be enjoyed by all. Throughout the years the Samba has gone through many different styles and was most recently revitalized through Samba Pagode where it can be enjoyed in a dance hall. For those who have witnessed Carnaval in Rio or seen photos, the samba is also its centerpiece with the Samba de Enredo where a single performer leads with a verse and is backed up by an entire bloco (samba school).

For more information on experiencing samba in Rio de Janeiro, listen to On The Road Travel's podcast about Carioca da Gema, one of the samba houses that led the revitalization efforts in Lapa.

If you visit Rio, I would recommend that you stay in the more touristy Rio Sul area - particularly Ipanema & Leblon (Copacabana has become unbearably touristy). Check out On The Road Travel's hotel recommendations for Rio. You will be better off taking cabs to Lapa and being based near the beach than vice versa. I also recommend visiting the neighborhood in a group, as walking along in Lapa at night can be risky for both Brazilians and tourists alike. Click here to find out more information about Rio's various neighborhoods.

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