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.

My homestay

I'm sure there might be a few more posts about my homestay. This is the first one. I'm not sharing a room as some other students have the pleasure of doing so. My room also is not a small closet as a new friend's is. Nevertheless, they seem to be content since they are only a block from the beach. My location is still considered a zona sul, which means that it is located in a middle class type neighborhood especially because it is near the Lagoon. I have not been here a complete week so I cannot recognize what areas are what. I'm told the favelas are the homes located on the skirts of hills, the homes are not completely constructed, that is, they do not have finished façades.

Here and abroad we're told favelas are 'pacified'. The word has many implications and I will leave that for another blog. I will be honest, I grew up visiting family in Mexico and it really is all relative. Unless of course this is your first time traveling abroad, then differences will be much greater.
 

Shelving that does the trick, it keeps my clothes somewhere for better access.

If you are considering the university's homestay program, do plan accordingly if you want to be comfortable. The majority of the homes that participate in the homestay program do so because it is extra income. I haven't heard many students say yet that they feel like they're in a welcoming home, per se. It is a college dormitory-like situation but in a family's home. 

I brought a top sheet as a last minute thought for the bed. Now I wish I had also brought a fitted sheet. I did bring my own bath towels, always do. My bathroom is located on the first floor and my bedroom is on the second floor. I have to admit, I thought my bathroom in my tiny apartment back home was small, it now seems like a palace compared to the one that is designated for my use here. The sliding door that closes my bathroom here is made from frosted glass. The bathroom is located right by the kitchen area. I'm hoping that neither the lady nor her daughter decide to cook while I'm taking a shower. They'll be getting a silhouette show for sure. Imagine!

Do bring a converter for your electronics! Make that two. I only brought one. My electronics now take turns charging. And when you head out to the university or to explore the city, make sure you turn everything off and lock your bedroom door. The lady asked me to turn off the fan on the second day. Apparently someone's home burnt down because the fan was left on. Most homestays should provide you with a key to your bedroom and the home.

On the foot of Corcovado waiting for the train that will lead us to Cristo Redentor monument.

Cristo Redentor. My own personal picture. Finally! Please link me.

Receiving some redemption.

Arriving to Rio de Janeiro

I arrived to Rio de Janeiro on July 4th. Yesterday I was still having some major jet lag, which explains why I woke up very late today. Good thing classes begin this coming Monday. However, when I opened my eyes and proceeded to do the same with my room's windows there was such a gorgeous breeze that I realized why Rio is Rio. My homestay unfortunately happens to not be near the beaches. Neighborhoods such as Leblon, Ipanema, and Copacabana happen to be on the east side of the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon and I'm on the west side of the lagoon, closer to Jardim Botanico. Nevertheless, I was still privy to an amazing ocean breeze. 

Purchase your plane ticket early. I read somewhere that when flying to Brazil it's a good idea to purchase tickets between Tuesdays and Thursdays. I flew with Copa Airlines and was impressed with their service. They did not charge for baggage but it can weigh no more than 70lbs. Also, they serve snacks and meals. After all, it is a long flight.

I'm participating in the PUC-Rio one month intensive program as a Special Student. I'm doing this program independently. I had a difficult time wiring the monies to the program's bank. Apparently banks in the United States have a list of countries that they do not wire money to, Brazil happens to be one of those countries. I'm to pay the tuition fee here.

I've been wanting to do this program for a couple of years and each summer the price goes up. If you're wanting to do it, do it now. Don't wait for the World Cup and the Olympics because I guarantee you it will be even more expensive then. I contacted the coordinators via phone in regards to paying the program (have patience, they may or may not answer your emails, in my case they did not).

Use Skype as it is an affordable way to call. Make sure you select in Skype's drop down dialing pad menu the Brazilian flag and then dial the city code and the phone number.

This is one my rooms windows. There is an AC window type unit here but honestly it is not needed. Plus, there's a ceiling fan in my room. Some students are luckier than others with their homestays. My situation happens to be okay.

Today I finally wandered off to the other side of the Lagoon and made it to the beach in Leblon. The sand is fine and it feels very soft on your feet. I didn't bring my diaper bikini (as Brazilians call our general choice of bikini styles in the States) so on my to do list is to purchase a Brazilian one soon. You see all body types wearing these tiny materials, so I'm gonna brave it out and not be so shy.

Getting the Student Visa

If you are a United States citizen traveling to Brazil you must have a visa. They request one because the U.S. has an expensive and drawn out process for Brazilians (the Brazilian consulate clearly states the reasons why in their webpage). Follow the directions located in the consulate's webpage, have everything filled out, and copies ready for the consulate and yourself before you head to their office or mail everything.

Obtaining the student visa for Brazil is only going to happen once you have your acceptance letter. Receiving all the material from the host university took a bit longer than was expected. I'm participating as a Special Student and not through my university. Nevertheless, PUC-Rio sent my acceptance packet to my university's Study Abroad Program office. The only way I found out was because the coordinator Erica sent me an email as soon as she realized she had my packet. There were a couple of hurdles but everything got solved quickly enough and the following week I was able to pick up my visa:

The consulate attached a letter for the Brazil's Federal Police. Everything is very official when traveling to Brazil. Have your documents in order at all times.

The nearest Brazilian consulate for me is located in Miami, Florida. Please be aware that if you are to make a trip to the consulate give yourself enough time to find parking and also bring enough coins for the parking meters because you will be waiting in line. Do not forget to bring coins and cash with you. I was lucky I had some spare change. I did not make copies of the acceptance letter when at home and had to do so at the consulate as well as print out three months worth of bank statements. (You don't need copies but why not have an extra set for yourself?)

The consulate needs all the information they can get about you and your trip, they keep all the supporting documents. It will make the process run smoother if you have everything ready. Be aware that they do keep your passport and you are to pick it up in 7 business days or so once the visa is glued onto a blank page of your passport. Be cordial and calm while at the consulate, don't look annoyed, rushed, eager or any other description that nears the ones I've just listed. Please dress nicely and wear light make-up!

Just in case, bring some cash (bills and coins).

In general, I cannot stress enough to be parking savvy when going to consulates that are located in major cities. As I was in the waiting room a lady had to run down stairs, left her teenager daughter saving their spot in line, only to return and say that their vehicle had been towed. An ordeal that probably heightened the stress in their travel plans.

By the way, consulates aren't very glamorous. It's an office floor with people waiting in line to be assisted by officials. A 'red-tape' process. The glamour happens in the cultural events consulates promote and of course the images of movies and television drama shows.