Rio is great, reminds me of several cities in India rolled into one. Especially the graffiti, colour palettes, and the closely packed old colonial buildings still in use as regular offices and houses. We're staying at a hostel in touristy and expensive Ipanema; tiny, clean, friendly, ruled by a gregarious Alex. Spent the afternoon at Ipanema beach, and caught a football game at night between Fluminense (from Rio de Janeiro) and Santos (from Sao Paulo). I am not originally a football fan, but the energy in the stadium was electric, replete with humongous flags, synchronised cheering for the home team, chalk, balloons, and loud cursing. It's great to be staying in a hostel. There are plenty of intrepid travelers from all over the world.
Things learned today: How to Pronounce Rio de Janeiro, How Little Portuguese We Know, The Off-Side Rule, Hand Gestures and Facial Expressions Can Get You Quite Far, Rio Taxi Drivers Have No Patience With Rush Hour Traffic Especially When a Football Game Awaits.
Word most used today: Obrigada!
