Salvador Brazil for Digital Nomads – Why Give it A Try

Salvador Brazil for Digital Nomads – It’s not usual for a lot of digital nomads to write about Salvador, Brazil. And while Rio de Janeiro, Florianapolis and Sao Paolo are the more popular cities in Brazil, we have to tell you about our favorite city in Northeastern Brazil.

The Vibrant Culture of Salvador Brazil

From the moment you step into Salvador, the city embraces you with its vibrant culture and history. This former capital of Brazil is experiencing sensory overload in the best way possible—music dances through the air, the smell of acarajé (a local street food delight) fills the streets, and every corner offers a new color or sound. As digital nomads, immersing ourselves in this culture was inspiring and incredibly stimulating for our creativity.

How A Typical Day Looks Like in Salvador

Here’s what a typical day of us was in Salvador:

We started our mornings with amazing Brazilian coffee in our co-living house. Mornings are set up for a quick focused work for a couple of ours and then we go for our morning stroll in the area.

When we are in Salvador, we make sure that we are staying close to the beach. Salvador is perfect because not only will you have a close proximity to the beach and good weather, but the prices are not extremely high compared to exorbitant accommodation and restaurant prices in Rio de Janeiro, for example. Salvador has the perfect blend of being in the beach without being too touristy. Now, some digital nomads might prefer the latter, however, for longer stays, we prefer a good balance with prices. We can easily go to touristy cities for quick planned trips.

We go between cooking our meals at home and tasting local Bahian or Brazilian cuisine or of course trying other restaurants which Salvador has a good access to. After some more work, then we spend our afternoons in the beach! There’s music in the lighthouse every Friday afternoon – and it just feels like a festival weekly!

While we won’t say Brazilians are the warmest of all South Americans (we find Colombians even warmer!) they are definitely friendly and nice and wow, they love to see Fridays as a “party”. And we don’t mean the expensive bar parties. Every Friday, you see that it’s generally part of the Brazilian culture to drink, have music and just have a lot of dancing and fun, even in the cities, in every corner of your area. It’s just a fun vibe to be around with.

Community and Connectivity

When considering connectivity, one might not immediately think of Salvador, but we were pleasantly surprised. With numerous co-working spaces and cafes offering reliable Wi-Fi, it was easy to find a spot to settle down and dive into work. Moreover, the local digital nomad community was welcoming and vibrant, providing an instant network of like-minded individuals who were always ready to share tips or a cup of Brazilian coffee.

Affordability

Living and working in Salvador is remarkably affordable, which is a huge plus for any digital nomad watching their budget. Everything is reasonably priced, From accommodation to food, allowing us to manage our expenses better and even save up for extra travel. This affordability meant we could enjoy the city without the constant financial stress of pricier locales.

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities

Salvador’s natural beauty is breathtaking. The city boasts stunning beaches that are perfect for after-work swims or weekend getaways. Whether you’re watching the sunset at Porto da Barra Beach or exploring the quieter waters of Praia do Flamengo, Salvador offers a natural escape from the digital world whenever you need it. The nearby Chapada Diamantina National Park also provides a spectacular backdrop for weekend adventures, from hiking and waterfall swimming to exploring vast caves. These activities rejuvenated us and brought fresh perspectives to our work.

The Food Oh, the food!

Salvador’s cuisine is a highlight unto itself. The Afro-Brazilian flavors offer a palate that’s both unique and mouthwatering. We often worked from cafes to indulge in the local cuisine. Whether it’s the spicy vatapá or the beloved moqueca, every meal was an experience. This exposure to different flavors and dishes also brought a new zest to our culinary skills, which was a delightful bonus!

Festivals and Events

Participating in local festivals and events, such as the famous Carnival of Salvador, provided an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from work and dive into pure joy and celebration. These festivals are not just fun; they’re a deep dive into the cultural heartbeat of the city. Living through Carnival, with its explosive energy and exuberant parades, was an unforgettable experience that enriched our lives beyond words.

Work-Life Balance

Perhaps the most significant aspect of working from Salvador was the work-life balance it offered. The relaxed pace of life in Salvador encouraged us to slow down and enjoy each moment, whether we were sipping a caipirinha on the beach or tapping away on our keyboards. This balance is something we struggled to find in other cities, making Salvador a true gem for digital nomads.

Things to Do in Salvador de Bahia When You’re Not in Front of Your Laptop

When the laptop shuts down, Salvador lights up with a plethora of activities.

Here are some things to do:

Historic Pelourinho District

One can’t-miss attraction is the historic Pelourinho district, a UNESCO World Heritage site with brightly colored buildings, baroque churches, and cobblestone streets. It’s a feast for the eyes and a hub for live music and impromptu dance performances, ensuring that your evenings are as lively as your workdays.

2. Jardim dos Namorados Park

For a touch of tranquility, visit Jardim dos Namorados Park, which offers a peaceful retreat with its lush greenery, jogging paths, and picnic spots.

3. Capoeira

If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at capoeira, a martial art quintessential to Bahian culture that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music.

Language in Salvador – Portuguese

Portuguese is the lingua franca in Salvador, and while you can get by with English in most tourist spots and co-working spaces, knowing basic Portuguese greatly enriches the experience.

In conclusion, Salvador de Bahia wasn’t just another stop on our digital nomad journey; it became a transformative experience. Whether you’re a fellow digital nomad looking for your next destination or simply curious about this colorful city, Salvador de Bahia is truly a place that must be experienced and believed.

A few more essential considerations for Salvador de Bahia

Safety in Salvador Brazil for Digital Nomads

Salvador, like any major city, requires awareness and smart precautions to ensure safety. While many areas are welcoming and safe, it’s wise to be cautious in less familiar neighborhoods, especially after dark. Always use reputable taxi or ride-sharing services at night, and be vigilant about personal belongings when out in crowded places. Local expat forums and fellow digital nomads can offer up-to-date advice on areas to avoid and safety tips that reflect current conditions.

Accommodation

Finding the right place to live in Salvador can greatly enhance your experience. Popular neighborhoods for digital nomads include Barra, with its proximity to the beach and vibrant nightlife, and Rio Vermelho, known for its bohemian vibe and excellent culinary scene. For those looking for quieter areas, Itapuã offers a more relaxed setting. Websites like Airbnb, VivaReal, and OLX are great starting points for apartment hunting, and joining local Facebook groups can provide leads on rentals and roommate opportunities.

Transportation

Navigating Salvador is an adventure in itself. The city’s public transport network includes buses and a metro system that covers many tourist and residential areas. For more direct routes, apps like Uber and 99 Taxi offer convenient and safe options. Renting a bike is also a popular choice for short distances, especially in bike-friendly areas like Barra. For those planning longer stays, understanding the bus routes and metro lines will be invaluable.

Visa and Immigration

Brazil offers several visa options for those intending to stay for extended periods. The most common for digital nomads is the tourist visa, which allows a stay of up to 90 days, extendable for another 90 days. For longer stays, you might consider a temporary visa or a business visa, which require more documentation and a valid reason for staying. It’s advisable to consult with the Brazilian consulate or an immigration lawyer to understand the best visa options based on your circumstances.

Healthcare in Salvador Brazil for Digital Nomads

Healthcare in Salvador is variable, with both public and private options available. While public healthcare is free, it’s often overcrowded. Most expats and digital nomads opt for private healthcare, which is affordable and offers high standards of care. It’s wise to have international health insurance that covers medical expenses in Brazil. Pharmacies are widely available and can provide assistance with minor ailments, but it’s important to have a health plan in case of emergencies.

Our Final Thoughts: Should You Consider Salvador Brazil for Digital Nomads?

Salvador is a city of vibrant culture and endless possibilities, and with the right preparation, it can be an incredible place to live, work, and explore. Whether it’s enjoying the local festivities, savoring the delicious cuisine, or simply soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach, Salvador offers a fulfilling and balanced digital nomad experience. Remember, the key to a successful stint in Salvador—or any location—is preparation and openness to new experiences.

Salvador is ready to welcome you with open arms and a warm smile, so pack your bags and prepare for an adventure that could very well change your life. Have questions? Be sure to let us know and we’d love to share to you even more tips and ideas! Stay safe and enjoy your travels around the world!