Brazil-week 1
I’m finally here in Rio! It is so great to be here! It was a long and disorienting trip but it I made it in one piece. The first day I mostly slept but not before we had a chance to go to the beach. Which are incredibly beautiful by the way.
Some highlights of the week:
Moziac steps. A large staircase where all of the steps have a unique tile design. The street art in this city is also incredible.
São Cristóvão
Sugarloaf Mountain. Took the cable car up. This is the most beautiful city I have ever seen, with many amazing vantage points from the sheer granite cliffs.
Twin brothers hike (below) we walked through Favela Altas seemingly infinite staircases and entered another steep trail in the park to offer impressive views of Rio, the Bay and the sea.
Blocos (Street parties) that happen all the time and are full of costumed people, drink vendors and live samba music!
Horto waterfall (above). Just a short walk from a Rio city bus, it was a rewarding sight. There were fish that would nibble your feet if you stayed still long enough.
Ilha Grande (above). Impossibly clean waters and interesting wildlife. If only I could stay here for longer!
Some observations I have made about Rio:
It is a very casual, laid back place. I have gone everywhere in sandals and shorts and fit right in.
They really like one way streets
No one gives a f*ck (e.g. Jaywalking, drivers running red lights, little kids selling alcohol etc)
They really love to party. There are Blocos all the time and tons of stands on the street selling alcohol.
The streets and beaches are full of beautiful people.
The National drink is caipirinha. Essentially tons of sugar, ice and lime mixed in with loads of alcohol (usually rum). Its caloric content could replace your dinner, but they pack a punch!
Some unfortunate things:
I was sold a faulty phone charger
A kid tried to pick pocket me. I thwarted his attack but broke my headphones in the process…
Overall this has been an amazing week! I have met tons of incredible people and have had a very eventful week.
OK that wraps up my first blog! Tune in next week to see how carnival went🎉🎶