Ep 5. Dolphin Coast
- TV-PG
- July 19, 2015
- 43 min
In this episode of Brazil with Michael Palin, the adventurer travels to the Dolphin Coast, a region in the northeast of Brazil known for its stunning beaches and marine wildlife. Palin begins his journey in Maceió, the capital of the state of Alagoas. Here, he gets a taste of the local culture by visiting a traditional marketplace and trying some local delicacies. He also visits a center dedicated to the preservation of sea turtles.
Following this, Palin heads out to the coast to explore the region's stunning beaches. He stops at Pajuçara Beach, where visitors can rent jangadas, traditional fishing boats, to take them out to the natural pools created by the coral reefs just off the shore. He then visits Praia do Gunga, a secluded beach surrounded by coconut palms and with crystal clear waters. Here, he tries his hand at stand-up paddleboarding and encounters some playful dolphins who come to swim with him.
Palin also visits the city of Maragogi, which is the gateway to the Costa dos Corais (Coral Coast) protected area. Here, he meets with a local fisherman who takes him out to explore the vibrant coral reefs, home to a wealth of colorful marine life. He also goes snorkeling and kayaking in the region's clear waters.
In addition to exploring the natural beauty of the region, Palin also learns about the local culture. He attends a traditional festival celebrating a local saint and joins in a dance with the locals. He also visits a school where children are taught traditional handicraft techniques, creating beautiful objects with natural materials like coconut shells and raffia.
Throughout his journey, Palin learns about the challenges facing this region, including pollution and overfishing. He meets with local activists who are working to protect the marine environment and promote sustainable ecotourism.
Overall, Dolphin Coast offers a window into the stunning natural beauty and rich culture of this region of Brazil, as well as the challenges faced by those working to preserve it for future generations.
