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.