Saara
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NileGuide Expert tip:
Take extra care with your belongings in this area of Centro - wear backpacks on your front and keep valuables well hidden. It's not a dangerous area, but the crowded, narrow shopping lanes make it ideal territory for pickpockets.Description:
Whether you're looking for throwaway fashion, cut-price electricals, carnival costumes or even a full Samba dancer's outfit, Saara is the place to come.The name comes from the Portuguese for Sahara, and this maze of busy shopping streets was originally populated by Arab settlers hawking the wares they had shipped into Guanabara Bay. Today, the Arab influence continues, and there are numerous spots to enjoy snacks such as Kibe, Esfihas and even Falafel.
But the real draw here is the sheer number of shops, most of which are far cheaper than anywhere else in Centro or the Zona Sul.
This is THE place for fun but tacky carnival accessories, and you might even find a bargain white dress for NYE here. Quality isn't the highest, but at these prices, you wouldn't expect the goods to last forever.
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