Rio !

Rio de Janeiro

Arriving in Rio from Iguazu after what was one of our worst 24 hour bus rides, we found a hostel with room for us. Leading up to carnaval we were surprised how cheap the beds were given the inflated prices elsewhere. When we got checked in we realized why it was so cheap. We were booked into a 24 bed dorm room with bunks stacked 3 high. Saying goodnight from the top to Amy on the bottom we only stirred the random in between slightly. We had made it to Rio!

The excitement of meeting up with my brother Sam and his girlfriend Maria was mounting. Sam and Maria were to pick us up in a couple of days to stay with Maria's family who live just outside of Rio in Niteroi. In our few days downtown we went on a Favela tour to Rocinha - the largest favela in Rio. Rocinha is located on a hillside with some of the most stunning views in the city. Now largely controlled by police favelas are becoming safer and little communities of their own.

24 bed dorm!

 Arch aqueduct

Mosaic steps, there are tiles from all around the world.

Lapa

Look away Chris!

In the favelas.

Rocinha

Narrow walk ways between houses

View from the favela

When Sam and Maria picked us up from the hostel it was great to see familiar faces! Crossing a 13km bridge we were in Niteroir meeting Maria's loving family! Hugs and kisses we felt so welcomed. With Maria as our tour guide for the next few days we saw much more than any other tourists :)

Rio in the distance

Beach day with Maria's family

Cristo in the clouds

Beach all to ourselves

Brothers

Itacoatiara beach

Agua de coco

The fort protecting the harbour

Taking the train up to Cristo!

Going up

Incredible views of the city - Rio in the forground, Niteroi in the back

Arriving in Rio a few days later was our friend Keely and her boyfriend Zack. We spent a few days touring the city with them and enjoying a local futbol game. Fluminense vs Vasco. With 4 major teams out of Rio the fans are hardcore!

We were cheering for Fluminense in stripes.

Great game! Tie 1-1