Teresopólis, Pao de Açucar and Barra
Teresopólis
On Sunday we went to Teresopolis which is just over an hour north of the city. Unfortunately it was too cold to swim in the waterfalls but the views were still worth the trek. We split up our time in the national park (views of Gods Finger) as well as downtown Teresopolis where we took in the weekend market. There were probably 200 booths and 190 of them were all womens clothing. No idea how that works…
Before dark we went up to see Eddies Dads house which is just being built. The views out his window are insane. I cant even imagine what this would cost in Canada.
Things to Remember: Go when it is warmer with clear skies. Reminds me of Peru as it looks like the Amazon but nearly as hot or humid. Hope you enjoy bumpy roads. Great place to buy a cheap belt (R$15) when you forgot one at home; Great restaurant with top notch seafood dishes. The plant that acts like a spring board when you press on it (http://www.flickr.com/photos/naidle/page2/)
Pao de Açucar
Amazing views, what can I say? Incredibly touristy. I am glad we did it just before the sun went down. It was weird hearing English all around me.
Things to Remember: Stunning views. Lots of tourists, many of which were discrespectful (breaking bamboo, throwing garbage). It is a must see.
Barra
After spending the first five days downtown Rio, we drove out to Barra where Eddie lives. Living right on the ocean, I spend the better part of my days at the bikini clad beach. I feel like I am living at a resort (wait, I am). To some they would rather be in the city but I much prefer it out here. People are friendly, its nice and relaxed but still lots to do.
Things to Remember: Learn how to surf before you come back. It is a travesty that I am a poor swimmer. The over-the-top fat favela boy who was acting up a storm for some Açai. Crying ´Oh My God Im so hungry!` doesnt work when you are overweight and creepy. Pick a better scheme; Açai, and fruit in general, is amazing; Bring strong sunscreen and accept mosquitos like you.
Next up… Ipanema Beach, Lapa, Jardim Botanico, Drinks & Food.
