Colorful ribbons are everywhere in Salvador. These souvenirs or lembranças do Senhor do Bonfim da Bahia are hard to miss. In the tradition, someone who is a native of Bahia ties the ribbon around the wrist of a visitor with three knots, each knot symbolizing one wish of the wearer. After receiving the ribbon, the recipient must wear the bracelet until it falls off, at which time the wishes will become true. The ribbons are named after the colonial church of Salvador and part of a long tradition. Of course, I took part! My colleague has been wearing hers since she visited last October (9 months!), so I am curious how long it will take for mine to wear off. I'll let you know when my wishes come true!
