Experiences
After a couple of days near the park, we decided to move to Vila Madalena, a “hip” and “trendy” (as the youths would say) part of São Paulo. I am a big fan. One of the main attractions is Batman Alley (Beco do Batman for those taking notes in Portuguese), which is filled with intricate street art. I have little witty commentary for this post (or, potentially, ever), so I’ll let the art speak for itself.
Read more “Batman Alley”
Experiences
Today we decided to head over to the historic center of the city to take a free walking tour. Beforehand, we headed to Ibirapuera Park for a fourth time. Our intention was to meditate near our black duck swan friends next to the lake.
Experiences
After saying goodbye to Rio yesterday, we took a short flight and arrived in São Paulo, a city of more than 12 million. Looking outside from my window seat, I saw skyscrapers that went as far as the eye could see. Luckily, our hostel is right next to the popular Ibirapuera Park, so we decided to take a look…three times in the last 24 hours.
Read more “Ibirapuera Park”
Experiences
Finding beautiful nature is one of my favorite parts of traveling. Whenever I get to a new city, I always head straight for the parks. Today we took a four-hour stroll to visit the expansive Rio botanical gardens.
Read more “Jardim Botânico”
Experiences
Joined by friends from England, New Zealand, Mexico, Peru, Chile, and Brazil, we embarked on a tour of Rio. We saw the impressive Sugarloaf rock formation, the Selaron stairs, and Christ the Redeemer…kind of.
Read more “Christ the Redeemer Has Risen (or has he?)”
Experiences
After taking a bit of rest day, we decided to get ourselves together and take a walk around the city. As is standard procedure, we looked on the map for either green (a park) or blue (water) and headed in that direction. Our afternoon stroll was aimed towards Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, which is just north of Ipanema.
Read more “The City by the Sea”
Experiences
We arrived in Rio two days ago and, after unsuccessfully attempting to convert the rest of my Paraguay money (anyone need any?), we made our way to the hostel. That evening we promptly decided to get out while we could.
Read more “The Unintended Favela Tour”
Experiences
Not to be outdone by the Brazilian side, Argentina offered extraordinary views of Iguazu Falls, including the incredible Garganta del Diablo (the Devil’s Throat). After weighing the pros and the cons, we decided that the Argentina side was better overall.
Read more “Iguazu (Argetina)”
Experiences
Following my much anticipated reunification with Brett Young, we started Day 1 of South America, Episode 2, by heading to the legendary Iguazu Falls. I had heard from many people that I should expect one of the most beautiful places in the world. We were not disappointed.
For an overview of the Argentinian side, check out this post.
Read more “Iguazu Falls (Brazil + Helicopter Ride)”
Experiences
After sleeping in a different bed for 15 straight days, I finally reached a temporary home base. I settled down in Asunción, Paraguay, where the people speak both Spanish and the native Guarani. The money is also quite entertaining. I had a few $100,000 bills upon my departure from the airport.
Read more “Asunción”