Port
Natal, Brazil
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At (prices in USD)
Information Not Currently Available
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 3 Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
The thousands of West Africans who were kidnapped into the slave trade and sold in Brazil in the 16th century brought with them a system of beliefs, stories, healing arts, music and dance. Today, these elements are both a legacy and a vital part of Natal's cultural identity. Your day out begins with a performance of a riveting dance genre and ends with shopping for sought-after handicrafts.
Take an air-conditioned coach ride to the community of Boa Vontade on the outskirts of Natal. Young people here are encouraged to join a social project -- the goal is to reduce crime and provide opportunities to learn and to shine through the discipline and commitment required to learn Capoeira. This artful blend of martial arts, acrobatics and music is part West African and indigenous Brazilian. Various movements and instruments combine to bring about the visual and auditory aspects of Capoeira. The performers -- youngsters involved in the program -- use complex moves, speed, kicks and spins, and cartwheels and handstands to create a rhythmic show that also incorporates elements of Samba and Maculelê. This iconic symbol of Brazil's culture has been declared an Intangible Cultural Asset by UNESCO.
Next up on your cultural journey is a look at another West African tradition -- colorful handicrafts. Even though Brazil's northeast was the first region to be discovered and colonized by European explorers in the 16th century, many of the arts and crafts made here today exhibit strong West African influence. Browse among the many stalls for ceramics, red-clay pottery, musical instruments, baskets and woven textiles. You may find wood sculptures such as the carranca -- an adaptation of African masks once placed on a boat's prow to ward off evil spirits.
Don't miss a demonstration of Forró -- the hip-swiveling, dance floor-filling, popular music and dance craze that originated in Brazil's northeastern states. Fans of forró say it is, "less competitive than Salsa and less pedantic than Tango." What do you think?
A panoramic drive back to the ship finds you enlightened and charmed by this multifaceted cultural experience.
Please note: As an extension of the Spa & Wellness with Dr Andrew Weil, this Mindful Living tour is designed to deliver the experience that contributes to mind and body wellness. You are invited to visit the on-board spa to speak to the Mindful Living coach to learn more about Dr Weil and Seabourn's holistic wellness program.