Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Everywhere we went, people were warning us of the dangers in Rio. We have read about the violence in recent years, but it was unbelievable how many people gave cautionary advice when we told them that we were planning to visit Rio. One guy told us to be wary of taxis that drive through tunnels. He said that gang members close off both ends of the tunnel and rob everyone inside! Thankfully, we faced no problems in Rio and noticed police on virtually every corner.

We were particularly excited about Rio because our friends from home, Mark and Vic, were joining us there. Another great friend, Lisa, was unable to make it to Rio at the last minute and she was greatly missed. Dear Lisa, if it’s any consolation, the weather was hardly beach-friendly and it rained throughout our stay. We only had one full day on the sand.

One of the most extraordinary characteristics of Rio is the dramatic juxtaposition of giant rock formations outlining the beautiful beaches and city streets. Rio was lively and throbbing with energy. We heard native drumming morning and night (there were raves at the beach after sunset) and despite the rain, we managed to see many of the sites – Ipanema Beach (you’ve all heard the song, ‘Girl from Ipanema’), Copacabana (no relation to Barry Manilow’s song that I still can’t get out of my head), and Corcovado (overlooking all of Rio). Mark and Vic’s friendly faces were the first familiar ones we had seen on our journey around the world. We had a blast spending time with them, purchasing local art, and exploring the town together. Additionally, we reconnected with the couple we met in Bariloche, Argentina. They invited us to dinner with their family and welcomed us into their home. We hope to return the favor when their adorable daughter makes her way to California.