Welcome to Bahia
It's the beginning of the Memorial Day weekend and the summer party season. You might be staying at home, or, headed to Miami, Washington D.C. or Puerto Rico. So let's take a moment to introduce a new event: Bahian Heat 2006. Sure, by now you realize that they are one of the new premium sponsors of Rod 2.0 but there's one more reason for the introduction—yours truly will make the trip. Get ready for the 11-day, Brazilian edition of Rod 2.0.
"This really will be the best time to visit Brazil," says Laurence Pinckney, one of the promoters behind the event. "The trip begins August 30. That's almost the start of fall here in the States ... but spring in Salvador and São Paolo. The perfect time to celebrate their Pride and Independence Day."
This is the first year for Bahian Heat. However, Pinckney and co-promoter James Saunders are industry veterans. This is the team behind the highly successful Dominican Island Heat 2 that recently wrapped in Santo Domingo. They were also the organizers behind Black Pride NYC, the predecessor to Pride in the City. And James Saunders needs little introduction—almost every brother on the East Coast has attended his legendary parties during New York City's Pride weekends, or at the Octagon or Brooklyn Cafe.
"We're hoping for a small but solid group," Laurence says. "About 50 to 100. Not too large, because we have a lot of ground to cover. James and I went down last year and have a lot planned. It'll be great because with a small group we'll be able to mix with the locals. There were hundreds of Americans at Dominican Island Heat, this will be much different."
Something else that is different about this trip—spending significant time in Salvador, Brazil's third-largest city and the socio-cultural capital of black Brazil. Which is exactly why Rod 2.0 wants to head down there. "Don't get me wrong, I love Rio," Laurence laughs. "But if you want to explore the rich cultural history of the black Brazilian experience—and those gorgeous Bahian men—it's all about Salvador."
The trip begins with two days in São Paolo. If you aren't a regular at Made in Brazil, let's explain why: The Clubs. And the go-go boys! Okay, you get a day to rest and acclimate ... but you know where we'll be.
Off to Salvador for a week. Their Pride is only several years old, but, attracted more than 100,000 attendees last year. Then, on September 7, celebrate Independence Day with a few more hundred thousand Brazilians in the streets.
It looks like Bahian Heat will be a quality adventure. There are some wonderful people behind it, the hotness will be in full effect, plus, the organizers are helping to raise awareness of several local charities. Yea, you could say that we're excited.
Oh this looks hot. You didn't mention that you were going. So you'll blog from the beach? Work it out.
Posted by: greg | 25 May 2006 at 15:26
This sounds like a great trip.
Posted by: Michael | 25 May 2006 at 17:34
is this girl friendly? all i see are references to boys...
Posted by: nicole | 31 May 2006 at 16:10
this is a great place i love it
Posted by: salina dupuch | 01 June 2006 at 14:21