touristy highlight number 1: cristo redemptor. this is a really, really, really, really big statue of jesus. it's a wonder of the world (which i didnt know), and i can understand why--it's incredibly impressive and influences the city in ways i didn't realize. this is me and beth, makin' adpi diamonds!
not so touristy highlight number 2: o flavela. flavelas are the slums of rio, and we walked through one with a guide. we went through rosina, which is widely considered to be the nicest one and is not super-dangerous. we were dropped off at a little market where they sell goods that denizens of the flavela make, and then we walked down through the city. don't be picking up the phone to send me home right now--the slums here have become organized communities, with schoools, community centers, electricity, running water, markets, etc. all of the buildings are solid (not like the tin shacks in india), and i was amazed at the genuine sense of community that we encountered. it was good to see, becuase it's a part of the city that most people don't.
and, finally, touristy highlight number 3: beach day!
when i talked to dad after getting back on sunday, he asked me if i had any new tats or piercings--how do parents always know??? yes, while we were on the beach all of us got henna tatoos--henna is indian ink that they paint on you, so, never fear, it will be gone in 10 days. the beach in rio is absolutely beautiful--fine, soft sand and very clear water. here's a picture to make you jealous:
although rio was a blast, it's good to be back in BA. i'm very comfortable here now becuase i know my way around and can fairly successfully navigate the langauge, neither of which i could do in rio. i can't believe we only have 3 weeks left in the city--i'm determined to take full advantage of it!
besos, ellen
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