IMPRESSIONS OF RIO
This city of over six-million people is located in surely one of the most spectacular urban sites in the world. Mountains divide Its different neighbourhoods which are connected by tunnels. Only from its various viewpoints, can one appreciate the setting with its many beautiful beaches and rainforest surroundings. The streetscape tells a different story. It is crowded with people taking in the smell of auto exhausts but there is no more garbage littering the streets here than one would find in Ottawa. The beaches are kept scrupulously clean. English speakers are rare here even at the hotel. The people are family-oriented - young children and babies are seen everywhere. It is amazing that despite the desperate state of their economy (due to the collapse of oil prices) and the resulting unemployment, that the people are still welcoming and smiling. We had been warned how dangerous the streets were (not to carry anything like a camera or purse, and not to wear any jewelry - even a watch), however, we never felt unsafe and we were out a lot on our own. Rio has grown on us as we look back and see how much fun we have had while we were here. Norma tells me that the city (like our hotel) is like a well-worn Persian rug - it still has class.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention the wonderful breakfasts here at the hotel. We are here when fresh fruit is in season and we have been taking advantage of it - freshly made juice, mango, papaya, persimmon which we enjoy with fresh Brazilian cheese. We have also enjoyed some other Brazilian treats such as cheese bread and French cinnamon toast Brazilian-style. Norma thought I should mention that for the past two mornings, we have been joined at breakfast by two Miami Dolphin cheerleaders and a Miami Dolphin production team.
We are sorry we have to leave.
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