Fun Classes for Expats Living in Salvador

For expats and digital nomads in Salvador, immersing yourself in the local culture and community is a fantastic way to enrich your experience abroad. Engaging in classes tailored to English-speaking adults can be both enjoyable and educational, offering opportunities to learn new skills, explore Brazilian culture, and meet like-minded individuals. From cooking traditional Bahian cuisine to diving into the world of Portuguese language, there's a variety of classes available that cater to different interests. Whether you're looking to enhance your culinary prowess, appreciate local art, or savor the subtleties of Brazilian wines, Salvador has a class for you. Here's a curated list of classes that are perfect for English-speaking residents who are still mastering Portuguese but eager to learn and connect.

Bahia Culinary School

Type of Class(es): Brazilian Cooking Classes
Location: Rua das Gaivotas, Salvador

At Bahia Culinary School, expats can dive into the flavors of Bahia with cooking classes that focus on traditional dishes. The hands-on experience is guided by English-speaking chefs, making it accessible for those still learning Portuguese. You'll learn to prepare classics like moqueca, acarajé, and vatapá, and enjoy the fruits of your labor in a communal dining setting.

Salvador language Institute

Type of Class(es): Portuguese Language Courses
Location: Avenida Sete de Setembro, Salvador

The Salvador Language Institute offers Portuguese courses for all levels, with a special focus on conversation and cultural immersion. Classes are interactive and designed to help you quickly improve your language skills, which will enhance your daily life in Salvador and allow you to engage more deeply with the local community.

Vinho e Arte

Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Appreciation
Location: Barra, Salvador

Vinho e Arte is a wine boutique that offers tasting classes for enthusiasts looking to explore the world of Brazilian and international wines. The classes are conducted in English and are a great way to learn about wine pairing, tasting techniques, and the winemaking process while socializing with other expats and locals.

Atelier Cores e Formas

Type of Class(es): Painting and Drawing
Location: Rua Chile, Salvador

Atelier Cores e Formas provides a creative outlet for those interested in visual arts. The studio offers painting and drawing classes in a relaxed environment, with instruction available in English. It's a perfect setting to unleash your creativity, learn about Brazilian art, and connect with fellow art lovers.

Casa do Samba

Type of Class(es): Samba Dance and Music
Location: Pelourinho, Salvador

Experience the rhythm of Brazil with samba dance and music classes at Casa do Samba. These classes are designed to be accessible for non-Portuguese speakers and provide a lively introduction to one of Brazil's most iconic cultural expressions. It's a fun way to stay active, meet new people, and truly feel the beat of Salvador.

Escola Baiana de Arte e Decoração

Type of Class(es): Art and Decoration
Location: Rua das Hortênsias, Salvador

For those with a flair for interior design, the Escola Baiana de Arte e Decoração offers classes in home decoration and Brazilian art. The courses are taught by experienced professionals and provide practical tips and inspiration for decorating your space, all while learning about local design trends.

Centro Culinario Tereza Paim

Type of Class(es): Bahian Cuisine Workshops
Location: Rua da Misericórdia, Salvador

Under the guidance of renowned chef Tereza Paim, this culinary center offers workshops on Bahian cuisine that are suitable for English speakers. Participants will not only learn to cook regional specialties but also gain insights into the history and cultural significance of the dishes they prepare.

Salvador Photography Club

Type of Class(es): Photography Workshops
Location: Various locations in Salvador

The Salvador Photography Club organizes workshops and photo walks for photography enthusiasts of all levels. These sessions are often led by English-speaking instructors and provide a unique opportunity to capture the beauty of Salvador while improving your photography skills.

Atelier de Cerâmica

Type of Class(es): Pottery and Ceramics
Location: Rua do Carmo, Salvador

At Atelier de Cerâmica, you can get your hands dirty and learn the art of pottery. The classes are small and intimate, allowing for personalized instruction in English. It's a therapeutic and rewarding way to create your own ceramic pieces, from vases to decorative tiles.

Escola de Música da Bahia

Type of Class(es): Music Lessons
Location: Ladeira do Cacau, Salvador

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, the Escola de Música da Bahia offers music lessons for a variety of instruments, with some instructors fluent in English. It's a great way to learn about Brazilian music styles and improve your musical talents.

Salvador Cooking Lab

Type of Class(es): Fusion Cooking Classes
Location: Rua das Laranjeiras, Salvador

Salvador Cooking Lab is a modern cooking school that offers classes combining traditional Brazilian ingredients with international techniques. The courses are designed to be accessible for English speakers and provide a contemporary twist on classic Bahian flavors.

Oficina de Teatro

Type of Class(es): Theater and Acting Workshops
Location: Teatro Vila Velha, Salvador

For those interested in the performing arts, Oficina de Teatro at Teatro Vila Velha offers acting workshops. These sessions are a great way to express yourself, improve your Portuguese through practice, and understand more about Brazilian theatrical traditions.