San Juan, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico had been seriously damaged by hurricane Maria in September 20, 2017. Two months later, I was there after a cruise trip. The date is November 19, 2017. When I got to the hotel booked through Expedia, the hotel door was closed and surrounding stores are all closed. I just figured out the damage is far more serious than I thought. I thought this is part of US, it should recover faster than other Caribbean islands. The result is power is not 100% working, it might be shared by regions. Many locals told us their home has no power and water. I ended stayed in Hotel Milano because in the old town area, this hotel owner let us stay even without power some time. At least, we do not need to stay on the street. I believe their government should rescue the island faster. The media should report more about this island than other far away area. God bless Hotel Milano and Puerto Rico.

Salvador, Brazil

Salvador, the capital of Brazil’s northeastern state of Bahia, is known for its Portuguese colonial architecture, Afro-Brazilian culture and a tropical coastline. The Pelourinho neighborhood is its historic heart, with cobblestone alleys opening onto large squares, colorful buildings and baroque churches such as São Francisco, featuring gilt woodwork.

Elevator Lacerda -
The elevator itself is one of the popular landmarks in Salvador de Bahia, Brazil.  The people of the city and tourists alike take the elevator to get up on the mountain. 

 Mercado Modelo

 Cobblestone road

 Cathedral of Salvador

 Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosario dos Pretos

Built by slaves and free blacks, the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of Black People is one of the city's landmarks. During mass, African songs and shythms fill the air in Pelourinho square.

 Pelourinho square

A UNESCO World Heritage site. The historic center of Salvador, Pelourinho is a living reminder of its Portuguese colonial past. Cobbled streets and lined with colorful churches, museums, boutiques and houses. 

 Inside the church:

 Sao Francisco Church square - Anchieta Plaza

 Inside the church

 Inside Mercado Modelo

You can do self guided tour - take elevator to the top, then walk through historical churches, squares, museums and shops. It will be more economical.