Bedroom and paint ideas

I will be living at a new address on November 1st! Tomorrow we will know for sure. I have a feeling this time it will happen. The change is beyond exciting for me and one that I've been looking forward to for a couple of years now. The new place is a 2 bedroom 2 bathroom condo located a few miles away from where I currently reside. The interstate exit to my new neighborhood, however, will add ease to my daily campus commute. The landlord is replacing the flooring before the move-in date. It will either have carpet or tile. I'm hoping she chooses the latter. Regardless, it is new flooring. The current carpet in the place is OLD and dirty but everything else is nicely kept. The walls are white and that makes me giddy. I will finally be able to shop for wall paint. I chose to not paint the walls that currently surround me. They're yellow. No more yellow.

My current bedroom has a splash of mismatched items, some are sleek items while others are quick and convenient buys (drawers) that seem more appropriate for a child's room. I have already found some possible drawers that will go wonderfully with my bed as well as some great paint ideas that will match the bed's blk/brown platform.

Better Homes and Gardens  has two paint wall options that I am considering and that differ greatly.

I found other bedroom ideas on HGTV's website, as well as what to do with thrift finds, such as the above vanity (which was initially only a desk).

Buttons in a Jar

Buttons in a jar.

Ever wonder what to do with all the extra buttons that are attached to your newly purchased blouses, skirts, and jackets? Put them in a cute marmalade jar that can serve as a decorative piece for your bookcase.

For the longest time I had the extra mismatched buttons in a zip-lock bag but not too long ago I decided to place them in visible place. That way if a button ever falls off of a blouse I will know where to find an extra button. Buttons! It's so fun to say 'Buttons' out loud. If you ever watched the 1990s cartoon Animaniacs you will remember that in one of the mini-episodes there was a dog named Buttons. Buttons would always be chasing after his baby owner Mindy because somehow she would always get into some sort of dangerous situations, which she was unaware of, except Buttons. Poor Buttons, always about to suffer a heart attack with worry for trying to keep Mindy safe. But I digress . . .

Bonne Maman is my favorite French marmalade and I always keep the jar once the marmalade has been completely eaten. Generally, I use the jars for my iced teas. This time, however, I used it for my buttons collection. The size of the jar is perfect, it doesn't require too much space and it helps keep one more thing in your life a bit more organized. No danger there for Buttons!

A cozy decoration for your home.

Chocolate Chip Cookies!

I made cookies this evening. My sweet tooth was calling out to me. I typed "quick chocolate chip recipe" on Google's search engine and voilá, there it was (second on the list)! The allrecipes.com site page has a video that walks you through the cookie baking process. I read the ingredients and the prep time and decided it was simple enough.

I began baking as soon as I found all the ingredients in my kitchen. I didn't have any walnuts at home so unfortunately they weren't added.  That was the reason I decided to make the cookies at home in the first place, I didn't want to go out and buy cookies. The cookies tasted amazing! Try making them, your taste buds will thank you.

Batter ready!

Now some intense heat coming their way...

Bon Appétit!

 

Before Brasil

Touching art is so tempting when "Do Not Touch" signs are written.

Before I flew out to Brasil for my intensive Portuguese program I took a quick trip to Washington, D.C. I have a few friends who live near the capital. For all intents and purposes, in the capital. It was my first time visiting. It is such an amazing place, with its monuments and everything that surrounds the capital culture. Granted I only briefly experienced its culture. But there is so many events happening everyday at all hours that there is just no way an individual can be bored or can make it to everything.

American University had an opening exposition showcasing Mexican artists. To be quite honest, I was not impressed with the opening talk or the questions made by some audience members. The art though was very suggestive, some pieces were fun while others where thought provoking. I enjoyed the art.

The gallery also housed some other pieces. I of course immediately felt drawn to those pieces belonging to Brazilian artists. These of course helped increase my excitement for Brasil. A trip that now, retrospectively, went by way too fast.

Now-a-days students use smart phones. Imagine these being phones.

P.S. In Portuguese, Brasil with an /S/ is the correct spelling. It is after all a proper noun. ☺

Saudades

It hasn't been a complete week yet since I've returned home from Rio de Janeiro and I can honestly say that I am feeling nostalgic for the early mornings to catch the bus and the walks I always took to get to places or to find my way back home.

Here, at home, I have visited with family and given them their souvenirs. Everyone seems happy with what they received. I hope to return soon and visit the friends that I made and those I didn't have the opportunity to visit. 

Dollars to Reais: using the ATMs

Reais for my next trip to Brasil.

Be careful when you use ATMs in Rio! I knew of several cases where friends after using an ATM had their card numbers stolen and for the next several days $500 dollars a day would be deducted from their account. 

A little under $3,000.00 (that is US dollars) was withdrawn from a friend's account. Without fail, every morning at 8:00am he would immediately see an unauthorized deduction. He had to go to the Tourist Police and call his bank several times. His bank wasn't being very helpful either.  Nevertheless, he managed to solve the issue relatively quick and he's also telling everyone to be careful. As am I.

Having your debit card and using an ATM is of course way more convenient than having to go to a Casa de Câmbio every several days. I used Citibank's ATM's twice and stopped very quickly. They charge you an insanely obnoxious fee and your bank of course charges you another fee. Not worth it! 

Across from O Cobal do Humaitá.

Stay away from HSBC as well, apparently that's where a lot of card numbers get stolen from. I felt comfortable using Banco do Brasil's machine boxes, though I would always choose either the ATM that was located at PUC or one that was actually located inside a bank's office. 

If you're planning to do a study abroad program in Brasil for 6 months or more, your best bet is to get a student type number and open an account with ITAÚ. It's a process but it can be done. You can only use ITAÚ's ATMs if you have an ITAÚ card. That apparently tends to dissuade the culprits.

Regardless, always check your online bank statement every day. When you do get money from an ATM, do print your receipt. It is never a bad idea to have a document of sorts. Regardless of where you're traveling or where you live, always be aware. Best of luck!

My last day

Packing, the not so fun part of traveling.

I woke up at 5am in the morning. I had to be at Post 10 in Ipanema Beach by 6am to train Cross Fit. I love exercising. It was an intense but such a worthwhile work-out to end my trip here in Rio de Janeiro. If you like intense-type workouts please make sure you look up Rocinha Cross Fit and communicate with Rogerio, the coach.

I was off to my last class, I arrived late. I needed to return home after the workout and take a shower. I had sand all over my face and body as well as some major bruises. I fell. For me, not a very surprising moment. I was worried about arriving late to class. Traffic was horrible at 9am. Be aware, in general, from 8am-10am traffic is always bad. Bus will take longer than usual. But when I arrived to class we were watching the film Bossa Nova. I had already seen the film several summers ago so I relaxed a bit. It's a good movie. After the film we had our last and final exam, the oral exam. I felt that it went splendid. The instructor told us we could leave because she couldn't ask us any more questions to produce language.

Tonight though, I packed a bit and then headed out to meet my friend Liv at a bar-club named Melt in Leblon. I also wanted to say goodbye to the new friends that I made and which I will miss terribly. At Melt we had a live samba-type band and caipirinhas. It was an enjoyable evening. A live band that made my love for Brasil increase substantially.

Now I'm ready to finish my packing. There's not much left. I'm ready to return home although also very sad to leave amazing friends behind and also an amazing city.

My Favorite Vendor

Please visit him at Praça General Osório.

I wasn't really planning on going to Praça General Osório yesterday but I ended there once again. It was after all the last weekend I could go. I purchased three art pieces...one for myself and two others for gifts. The artist was very nice. He seemed very timid. That probably explains why he wasn't pushy about selling his work and why I decided to buy from him. I asked Dino if I could take a picture of him with his art. He looked stiff at first and when I asked him to loosen up we laughed. As soon as he hugged his art you could sense him relaxing. He handed me a flyer with his name and phone number: Dino Castelli (+55-21) 9462-4898. I have to admit that out of all the vendors I have interacted with during my stay here in Rio, he has been my favorite. I like timid people. They're the best. Good hearts.

Sucos

Safe Zone in Praia Ipanema.

Not counting today, one day left. I have already started packing. The weight of books and the cachaça I purchased have me a bit worried. I will be checking in my carry-on suitcase as well. That way I can balance out the weight. My back bag will now be my carry on which I will pack with my electronics and even more books. I will be using my new purse for make-up, jewelry and documents. My feelings are conflicted: I'm happy and ready to return home but sad that I'm leaving the marvelous city of Rio de Janeiro. 


Studying in Rio de Janeiro this summer or winter if you like, has changed my life. I have a feeling that you will slowly see this unfold in the next two years.

A small açai and croissant com queijo e presunto.

This evening I went for a suco de morango ao leite, that is, a strawberry milkshake. It was delicious! Yesterday's however, was even more amazing, a small açai. The serving portion was more than enough to satisfy the vitamin need and compared to the states, pleasantly affordable. Take advantage of all the sucos here. I wish I had started going into the juice cafes from the very beginning. You will find juice cafes in almost every corner. They usually have small foods such as croissants with cheese and ham or some other combination. There are many different types of snack bars / cafes in the city as well as restaurants.

Framing experiences

I was to meet my carioca friend at her house but she was still sleeping. As you have previously read, days are short here do to the winter season so I try to take advantage of daylight as much as I can. I left a message with her mother saying I'd either return or call her later tonight. She lives very close to Ipanema beach. So I decided to head over to the beach. I walked and people watched. A man on his bicycle blew me a kiss...ladies, it happens quite often. I am happily in love so I ignore although I will admit that I appreciate the odd compliment. Or maybe it's not so odd?

Purple frames make everything royal.

Once I left the beach I headed over to Praça General Osório. On my way there, a block that is diagonally across from the plaza, specifically on Rua Teixeira de Melo and Rua Prudente de Morais I saw the neatest handmade frames and hair accessories. I was debating whether to purchase a hair accessory or a frame. I decided to take a picture and when I did so the artist approached me. I don't believe she was too ecstatic about me taking a picture. I usually always ask and honestly this time I forgot since I was walking around taking random shots of everything I found interesting. 

I bought the frame for R$30. I love it! (Especially because of the interaction.) And I also have a picture of her very cute set-up. I explained to her (Flavia) that I have a blog and asked her for a flyer or business card. She was very sweet, please do check her out when you visit Ipanema and Praça General Osório. I'm only a bit sad because when I arrived home the frame received a nick during my bus trip. I'm hoping I can fix it with some crazy glue when I arrive back to the states. I'll leave the exposed clay intact and will forgo looking for the correct paint to coat the crack...That I have decided is also part of framing experiences.

Leblon 360˚

Praia Leblon, Rio de Janeiro

I have been sick for the last two weeks. It's an odd cold-allergy. The good, it hasn't gotten worse. The bad, it doesn't go away. Regardless, I made myself go to the beach. I lathered the sunblock and headed out to Leblon Beach. I like Leblon Beach because I find it more relaxing. Once I arrived I read one of my new books and most importantly, I just took everything in.

Beach culture here is so different than beach culture in South Florida. Here you feel comfortable. Your body type does not matter. Women and men of all sizes wear their bikinis and sungas, respectively, and look as if they're at home. Which they are, after all, that's what the beach is for.

Before I left the beach I made sure I took a 360˚short video shot with my camera. I'm not sure when I'll be returning. Hopefully soon. The video briefly illustrates people walking, taking some sun, playing volleyball, and exercising. There is a nice Shopping about two blocks in, from Rua Atlantica. It's a high-end mall with stores such as Armani and Chanel. These stores you will not find in Botafogo's Shopping.

The PUC entrance

I have to be honest, I have not explored PUC's campus. Apparently there is a satellite campus as well. Nevertheless, the images below are from the one of the two entrances. I use this entrance the most because the bus I usually take, #410, stops right in front of the university. PUC happens to be a rest stop for the bus drivers and cobradores. You will usually see them doing some light stretching, by standing and walking before they head back to Rio de Janeiro's Centro. I can see why they take a break. The drive back to the city's Centro is relatively long. What makes the trip long is the constant stopping. Once it reaches the Centro, the bus driveres stop for another break.

If you're out on the street and are waiting for a bus, even if you're standing at a marked bus stop, you have to flag down the bus. If you don't, the bus will not stop. There are many bus routes that will help you reach your destination but you must be aware and quick. Nevertheless, wait time is not bad. What is bad is the city's traffic, it is always congested no matter what time of the day. So make sure you time-in possible traffic delays when planing your day's activities.

PUC bus stop area

If you're in need  of a snack, there are many stands outside PUC's bus entrance.

I love this lady's sign:

FIADO SÓ AMANHÃ

Less than a week

A tuxedo Carioca cat.

A neighbor's cat greets me every morning. At least I believe the cat belongs to someone. It is always hanging out in the center patio that these homes share. The first day I opened the door on my way to PUC the cat was waiting for me. It was ready to sneak into my host mother's home. I slammed the door worried about it actually entering the house. I didn't even get to step my foot outside the door. I imagined myself chasing after a cat inside my host home and having to wake up and tell my host mother and sister about the situation. It was very early, I was running a couple of minutes late. After I counted to five, I opened the door again. The cat had not moved.  I nudged myself out and the cat began to follow me until it sadly realized I was not going to feed or pet him. Sometimes it waits for me when I return. It never runs away, it just sits there and meows.

Livraria - Sebo... I bought several old books here.

Yesterday I went to two book stores. One happened to be a second hand book store. These stores are located very close to each other and you can find them in Botafogo. There's other locations throughout Zona Sul. If you're into books, please try to go to book stores. I of course purchased new books and old books. I had to control myself, my suitcase does not have much space and I also have to be mindful of weight restrictions from my flight carrier.

Sometime last week on my way home I walked into a little shop, Mutações, that sells artsy and handmade products. It is located near o Cobal do Humaitá on Rua São Clemente. The shop is long and has a small cafe tucked in the back. It is very cozy. The products were on the expensive side but taking pictures is always the next best option.

Neat hangers at Mutações. This is a worthwhile project I will attempt with the endless amount of wire hangers I own.

Francisco the bikini man

About a week and a half ago I walked to Leblon Beach from PUC. When I arrived I sat on the steps and took in the vista. The beach was empty. Mostly. The weather cloudy and chilly. However, there were still some vendors out and ready to sell their products to those who ventured to the beach, regardless of weather.

I spotted a man with some umbrella contraption that effectively holds bikinis and attracts potential customers. The tiny bathing suit outfits hang from a string that outlines the umbrella. I was not sure if I should approach him. I waited, sat and observed everyone and everything. Soon a lady approached the bikini man. She grabbed a set and was gesturing for the price. I figured this was the best opportunity to approach the vendor. Not to help the tourist out, but to listen for the price. He sold her the bikini for R$50,00.  Somehow I new this was a bit hefty.

He briefly walked away to another vendor, he needed change for her. His customer happened to be from Miami. She was on a business trip and was heading back home the following day. Her and her partner are opening an equity office here in Rio de Janeiro. I found this out soon after my purchase when she asked if I had done well.

When she walked away with her new purchase I realized it was my turn. I wanted a black bathing suit but the vendor insisted on handing me bright colors. He said they would look good with my skin. I kept saying they were a bit too much for me. Finally, I selected a white set which he priced for R$50,00. I said R$35,00 and he said no. We agreed on R$40,00.

I ended paying R$30,00. I thought I had more money on me. I didn't. I had exactly R$30,00 for a small dinner snack and my bus ride home. I told Francisco, we soon exchanged names, that I would just have to return another day. He insisted I buy the bikini by shoving it into my arms. I insisted I didn't have enough money and would hand back the bikini. At one point he told me to just come back tomorrow and give him the difference owed. I looked at him and replied in a very honest manner that I couldn't guarantee that I would come back with the ten reais difference. I told him that I would return later during the week. He didn't like the option. He told me to take the bikini for R$30,00. He needed to sell.

Here I was with a bikini and no bus fare.

Finding an ATM became priority number one. I finally found a Citibank ATM in Ipanema. I have found that using an ATM makes more sense than going to a Casa de Câmbio with wads of cash. You pay a fee regardless.

  (If you squint your eyes just so, on the left side, there is a shadow of an umbrella with the Brazilian bikinis.)

P.S. Update, my last day in Brazil I returned to Leblon Beach and directly went to Francisco. I bought more bikinis from him, as presents for friends.

Muito brasileira

I have seen many Carioca women wear similar leather boots such as these.

 

Yesterday morning bus route #157 once again gave me the scenic experience, by way of Lagoa, Leblon and finally PUC. Today, thankfully, I finally decided to wait for buses #158 or #410. When I saw #158 I flagged it down. Compared to my first day, I now look like a pro. Or in other words, not as a foreigner. Recognizing major buildings has also helped. I no longer feel disoriented, at least not as much. I made it to the university with plenty of time to finish most of my homework assignments.

The other day I had to speak with Vanessa, the assistant coordinator for the program, about my appointment with the Brazilian Federal Police and Linda, the head coordinator, walked into the office and didn’t recognize me when she saw my profile. When she realized who I was she told me: “Você ‘tá muito brasileira.” It was a rainy chilly day and I was dressed as if I were living in the North Pole. An exaggeration, I agree, nevertheless, but I must admit that I was bundled up. Winter weather for Cariocas is major (and I agree) and many of my European peers find it quite hilarious. Of course I understand their reasoning but let me tell you why this weather is horrível: it’s chilly, rainy and to top it off, humid. The combination makes your bones ache. I am serious! Or maybe it’s just my body aging. 

I suggest, regardless what weather you are accustomed to, pack boots or nice warm shoes. There is no way that I can get away with wearing flip-flops with this recent Rio de Janeiro weather. To be honest, I have not worn flip flops yet when I am out and about. 

I saw a Carioca with rain boots. Her's were a forest green pair with conservative patterns. She was very chique.

 

Weather forecasters inform that this weather will continue well into the weekend. I have yet to go to the beach. That is, taking in some sun and enjoying the feel of the sand and the water. The days have not been sunny. Though, if you’re a surfer, this week has seen some spectacular waves. I was privy to those waves two days ago when I went to Ipanema after class. I was sitting towards the front of the ônibus and for about 2 blocks the driver took the avenue that parallels the beach. I was in awe, for a second I thought about how extraordinary it would be if I was a risk taking surfer. For a second.

The Brazilian bikini I bought from Francisco, a vendor in Leblon Beach.

Bus route #157

Bus #157 at the PUC stop station

Today I woke up relatively early. Yesterday Saturday I slept in and I regret not rising early, but tanto faz, it was still a productive day. As was today. A pleasantly eventful weekend. 

I hopped on the correct bus, #157, but it was going the opposite direction from my final destination. When I realized this I went up to the cobrador and asked him where I should get off to reach my destination. He informed me it was going to be a bit complicated and that I was better off staying on the bus until we reached the bus hub which is located in the center of the city, that is, in downtown. A fair distance. I stayed on the bus and had a very nice conversation with Valter. Yes, with a letter /V/. His team is Flamengo. On our way back, he was pretty much my tourist guide and pointed out major city points. For R$2,75 (that would be about US$1.35). I told him so, especially how much I appreciated the helpful assistance and friendliness.

A known landmark in Ipanema.

Granted, the trip was much longer than I expected, from 20 minutes to 1:40 hours. Nevertheless, it was a worthwhile experience. If you're to become mistakenly "lost" in such a manner, do so during the day time. Especially if you're still new to the city as is my case. You can never err on being too safe, no matter where in the world you are, even at home.

I recommend that you always be friendly, cordial and have a tremendous amount of patience with yourself. Try not to act too much like a tourist. In other words, try to make your mannerisms and your dress appear similar to that of the locals. It has helped me tremendously. To such a point that many Cariocas do not realize that I am not brasileira until they have a longer conversation with me and it then becomes a topic of discussion. As they tell me: "Você parece brasileira e fala dirietinho." Let me demonstrate my giddyness: Yay!!!

 

I safely reached my final destination. I met Lilian at her place. I accidentally met Lilian yester-eve at Ipanema's local bakery and we soon became fast friends. I do not believe us meeting was an accident, it was destiny. She is worried I do not have a cell phone. I make do. I also figure that my trip is soon coming to an end. 

Across the bakery there is a beautiful church. I went to the 4:30 mass.

Both Lilian and I walked through the Osório market, which occurs every Sunday and is located about 2 blocks from the beach. Going there is a must, particularly if you're interested in purchasing worthwhile gifts for family. Which I of course readily accomplished. Though I realize I have to be extremely careful with my spending. Rio de Janeiro is an expensive city. Even for the people who live here. 

 

Market day at Praça General Osório, Ipanema 

Capoeirista figurines

Having a cell phone

When you arrive to Rio de Janeiro you might realize you will want a cell phone for emergencies or to keep in contact with the new friends you make. Unblock your phone back home. If you don't know how, find someone who does. It is more expensive to try to add an international plan with your phone company. If you arrive with an unblocked phone than you are able to buy a chip, with the same name, only with a carioca pronunciation.`Do not fret because you can also purchase a phone here, if you can find a cheap one. If not, it will also be pricey. It all depends on what you want and especially how long you plan on staying: a month, a semester or a year.

Nevertheless, yesterday I read an article from a small newspaper, Destak, that a law was recently passed several days ago in which companies can no longer sell blocked cell phones. People just have to wait 22 days for the it to take effect. So by the end of this month, July 2012, people will have the opportunity to purchase unblocked phone. Or at least, that's the idea.

I do not know how to unblock a cell phone. And I also decided not to purchase a phone during my stay in Rio de Janeiro. Since I only have about 20 days left here, I figured a cell phone was not extremely necessary. I am always certain I arrive back to my homestay at a decent time as to not cause in worry, in my person.

Now, if you want to speak with family back home, do not purchase calling cards. Most students should have internet access in their homestays, I encourage you to use Skype with your family. If your family does not know how to use Skype, you can always add money to your account and call your family's land line. I spoke for about 45 minutes, from Skype to a United States land line, and the total cost was just under $2.00. There are options, just make sure you inform yourself as much as you can before you arrive.

Don't call your family often, let them miss you or your voice, for that fact. Contact them once a week. If you use any other social media, be certain that they do follow posts or status updates even if you do not directly contact them. Your time abroad is to experience a different culture and sometimes to do that you must create 'distances' from those back home.

Exploring Gávea

Today was the first day of classes. I hopped on a bus that took a different route than the one I've been usually taking. I arrived 3 minutes late to class. Towards the end of class the instructors gave us another test to verify our level. I have not seen Portuguese grammar in over two years. Let's just say, that if they are to base my class level on this sole test, they'll be placing me in a much lower level. Tomorrow I will find out.

A slightly longer route than usual.

After class I asked one of the interns for a store where I could purchase passport type pictures. I have to report myself to the Polícia Federal with my passport, student visa, head shots of myself and receipts proving that I paid taxes for being in Brazil.  

If you are to participate only in the intensive program, I suggest you come with a tourist visa. I originally went with my acceptance letter to the consulate and consequently a student visa was provided. Now I am paying more than I probably should have if I had only applied as a tourist. 

 

Rio de Janeiro is an expensive city. I look at prices and after converting reais to dollars my jaw immediately drops. If you plan on doing a semester or a year in Brazil, either start saving now or be extremely frugal when you're here. If the 2012 World Cup  or the 2016 Summer Olympics  are your goal, do the same, there is no doubt in my mind that the prices will multiply.

Rua Jardim Botânico with a large extension of graffiti.

We were told several days ago by the program's coordinator that you are not to smile in the head shots that will be handed to the federal police. That is the pictures. It was important I kept a serious face. I purchased a complete sheet with yours truly. That's the only way the store would sell them. Now I have extras, just in case, for some random use. After my photo-op I proceeded to walk home instead of taking a bus. I wanted to explore.

I haven't seen a stray dog but have I seen cats.

Let me be honest...exploring means that I took some wrong turns several times and wasn't sure what bus to take back home. I was lost for a couple of blocks. Then I recognized the street and decided that I would just walk back. And did I walk, with flats. A little over 5.3km. It took me over two hours to make it back to my homestay. I kept stopping to take pictures.  

o Jardim Botânico

There are some amazing buildings that unfortunately are abandoned.

 

Parque Lage. Walking by this park was unbelievable. As odd as the comparison will be, it felt as if you were walking by a natural AC system. Your body immediately felt refreshed. I know mine did.

Winter in Rio de Janeiro

Tomorrow Monday, classes officially start. I'm eager for them to begin. I need to improve my Portuguese and that's one of the main reasons why I'm here. Today I had what you can say a free day. My original plan was to walk around the neighborhood to get to know the area and take pictures. It's been raining since the wee hours and the temperature dropped several degrees. About 68˚F. After debating for several hours in my bedroom I decided to venture out into the rain.

Bring an umbrella during this time of year as well as light sweaters and some light but warm scarves. I brought three fitted jackets--corduroy, faux leather (from Express clothing), and woven.  If you're familiar with Florida weather, then you are prepared for this type of weather. I regret not bringing my flat boots that were a Christmas present (I didn't want to over-pack), especially because I'm not sure how often it will rain while I'm here. I will be fine, I hope, since I did bring some walking Puma tennis shoes. Others might not find Rio's winter too cold, but the body becomes accustomed quite quickly to certain climates, therefore it is not a bad idea to dress and bundle up as the Cariocas do.

This building is what I encountered on my afternoon walk: Portugal's Embassy on Rua São Clemente. It is absolutely beautiful. I'm curious to see and compare it with the U.S.A.'s Embassy. I have a strong feeling that the architecture will not be the same.

 

The steps I take daily to leave and return to my temporary home. Today they were a slippery endeavor. The weather forecast for tomorrow will be the same.

There were few Cariocas walking on the streets. This allowed me to walk more comfortably so I could read street signs and recognize landmarks without attracting too much attention. Though a bus did splash me during my walk. The sidewalks are generally narrow. Large umbrellas are wonderful but not practical to use when light-posts make sidewalks even more narrow.