This gentle coastline was the first place the Portuguese arrived in Brazil in 1500, giving it the name, Discovery Coast. Today, this is a UNESCO site where the whitewashed church still stands and colorful houses and artist studios extend around the square.

Just before sunset the crowds wind their way back up to the Quardado to dine, drink and dance to local sounds of forro (pronounced foh-hoe) or axé (ah-shay).

Trancoso had been a quiet fishing village slowly disappearing until it started to attract hippies (locally called “biribandos”) and artists in the 1970’s.

We were lucky to call UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa our home in Brazil, best described as "a magical oasis." A property of 11 uniquely designed casas, the details are what makes it so special. We are still dreaming about the iconic "baribando salad" of beets, coconut, cashews and sesame- a must-try.

Check out some of our favorite spots in the links below.