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.

Upon our arrival, we noticed that an overnight proliferation of birds had taken place. No photograph could possibly convey the immense quantity of geese. Luckily, Brett was able to capture the cacophony (and I skillfully edited out the portion where I admitted I was getting a bit nervous).

Eventually it became too much. One large, white goose came charging our way with obvious devious intent. HONK! HONK! HONK! We did what any reasonable pair of full grown humans would do. We got out of there. After our near escape from almost certain peril, we made our way downtown to see some historical architecture. How’s that for a segue?

São Paulo–and every other Brazilian city we’ve visited thus far–is immaculately clean. It also seems to be very efficient despite its massive size. We have been quite impressed.

The below government building used to belong to a wealthy Italian family. After some internal conflict (including bankruptcy) the family ultimately had to sell the building to the state, which planted a garden on the roof with over 50 species of trees.

We also came across a fancy law school. The government said it was going to build the campus in the southern part of the city, but the law students staged a large protest. Eventually the new campus was built in the north. Aren’t law students delightful?

We also saw an impressive church. Evidently it took 100 years to build (finally being finished in 2002, if I remember correctly). I must admit it wasn’t as glorious as the Franciscan church in Quito (my current favorite church), but it was still quite beautiful.

After the tour (and a lunch buffet–our new favorite activity), we went on an impromptu currency exchange tour. I have been stuck with 500,000 in Paraguay Guaranies for longer than I care to admit. After I added four more failed attempts to my record, we decided to go home. If anyone is going to Paraguay (or Iguazu) soon, please let me know. I have a present for you.