Our Island Home

Warning: the Brazil blogs are not written in chronological order. So, if you're say, an out of work mechanical engineer who is anal retentive about this sort of thing, just sit back, relax and  enjoy the ride! We had a lovely time relaxing in Rio. We got our 'tourist' on and visited all the big names; Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf and Lapa Street Party to name a few. Our favourite was probably people watching at Ipanema and Copacobana beaches. Brazilian bikinis, bronzed Brazilian men strolling around in short shorts, vendors galore, cross-dressers, caipirinhas right at your beach towel (don't mind if I do) - you name it! A high five for the big guy Rio De Janeiro The view from Christ the Redeemer Rio De Janeiro Samba practice in Rio for Carnival My new favourite - tapioca! Sugar Loaf in the background Sunset at Ipanema A really unexpected treat was in the beautiful old gold mining town of Ouro Preto. We were there a ...

Before Carnival we were lucky enough to stay on the island Itaparica, near Salvador.  Our lovely air bnb hosts Carlos, Gabi and Mel took us out on their motorised canoe to deserted beaches and mangrove lined rivers. They cooked us delicious local seafood dishes, shared some homemade cachaca with us and quite frankly - we all got on like a house on fire! Our first welcome sign, from Gabi, Carlos and Mel! Deserted beach of Itaparica Carlos and Gabi are working with 'Clean up the World' to keep their beaches safe and clean. They really are dedicated to their work and have done a lot for their community. Their website is:  www.cantoecologicopt.blogspot.com . Captain Brad gets to drive the boat! Their house was an absolute sanctuary; with mango and coconut trees, a beach right out the front, turtles wandering the garden and the occasional visiting monkey. If anyone ever visits Salvador, this place is a must! A visit back to Ita...