The One with the Big JC

It was with much excitement that we entered Rio on the bus, and searched the skylines to be the first one to spot Christ the Redeemer (Forthwith referred to as The Big JC) I think Ros won, by the way!.

With some people leaving the next day we were all on a mission to DO Rio in as little time as possible, and so headed straight out that evening to watch the sun set over Rio from the Sugar Loaf mountain.

Two cable cars later, and with a cold beer in the hand we sat and watched a the sun sunk behind the Morro's, with the spectacular Big JC sillhouetted against the orange sky. I have taken so many photos , but nothing will do that memory justice.

That evening we went to a traditional Brazilian style restaurant. MEAT MEAT MEAT.... until you say stop. We also pottered through LAPA, the nightlife area of town, although we were observers rather than revellers, as we were so exhausted. It looked a lot of fun though, with street vendors selling food and drinks and tons of people milling in the streets.

The next day and H and I were on a mission. Taxi to Ipanema (humming the song), walk on the beach, admire the sand sculpture Santa... (surely he should wear a T-shirt and shorts in the Southern Hemisphere?), a stroll through the Feira de Hippie, Ipanema (more earrings purchased), and back to the hotel to meet the others for our tour of 2 of the cities Favelas.

Our guide for the Favelas was amazing. Really informative, and they really have to be seen to be believed. Thousands of people living on top of each other in houses that clambour on top of each other up the hillside.

From here to the Big JC himself... he really is just as amazing as you would ever imagine him to be, and we spent ages admiring the views of Rio, Sugar Loaf mountain, and trying to get the perfect JC shot! Then back via Copacobana... (hummed than song too!)

Wish I'd had more time in Rio, but fitted in as much as we could, and now we're just back to the two of us.