If you follow my Instagram page then you already know that I’m in Brazil. Rio de Janeiro to be exact. My trip started with my cab ride from the airport to the private home where I’m staying. The photo above was taken in the cab.
My first impression of Rio was that it reminded me of Jamaica. Well, driving from the airport anyway. If you’ve flown into Kingston then you know how we have those industrial factories with massive cranes and the ocean arms length away. On the other side of the road were small houses (pictured above).
After I got to my room, my host took me for a walk to show me around. In the photo above, is a historical, residential community. I love the history of Rio. I love all history actually but there’s something about being on site in such an old city that excites me.
First order of business was food. But you guys already know that I never miss a meal (if you didn’t know that, don’t let the skinny fool you, I love to eat). Brazilian breakfast seems to be pretty minimalist. Pastries, coffee, and a fruit drink. I ate about 5 of the cheese breads, which were delicious but I’d need to eat about 20 to feel full. My drink was made fresh with fruits from the Amazon. How cool is that?
After breakfast, we walked to the park. The park was beautiful, with tall trees that house monkeys (I didn’t get to see any though), chess tables, a museum and a cafe. There was a group of elderly people taking a Tai Chi class in the shade and an art exhibit on display (pictured below). Right outside the park is a busy, noisy street. But once inside, it’s a peaceful oasis where the only sounds you hear are the birds and the monkeys. On the other side of the park is Flamenco beach. Click here to see a video of the beach.
I haven’t over planned this trip which is new for me. I have a few must-see tourist sites I want to visit including the Statue of Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf mountain. But beyond that, I plan to take things one day at a time. There’s no TV where I’m staying (thank God for wifi lol), but it’s nice. I’m sitting on the patio now, listening to the crickets, dogs barking in the distance, and the occasional car driving by. The climate is ideal, not too hot or humid with a cool breeze. If there ever was an ideal place to “realign yourself” (as my friend put it), this is the place to be.
Have you been to Rio? What are you must-see recommendations?