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.