Curitiba, São Paulo and Paraty

So.... from Foz we took a night bus to Curitiba. It was about 10 hours, and not overly comfortable for sleeping. The 10 hour flight home will seem like luxury compared to some of these journeys! And National Express, a walk in the park!!

Curitiba is a really nice city in the South of Brazil (and the home town of someone who has been very important in my life). I was really interested to visit the city, but unfortunately we only had 24hrs to see it. We had a quick nap when we arrived and then set off to explore the city. More specifically the shoe shops! I have found my weakness.... Brazilian shoes! Great restrain was required, and not always exercised!!

In the afternoon, I went for a trip on the hop on- hop off bus, which I didn´t hop off of! I just stayed on for the whole circuit in order to see as much as possible in the shortest time. Will definitely have to go back there some day.

Next stop was São Paulo - again we only had 24hrs to explore, but being Monday all the interesting buildings and museums where closed which was annoying. We managed to go upto the 41st floor of one of the skyscrapers for a panoramic view of the city. Basically more skyscrapers!! The city has 21 millions inhabitants! Give or take....

I also managed to meet up with one of my ex-students - which was lovely.

And then on to Paraty. Paraty is a lovely beach side town. We went on a cruise around the bay, jumping on and off the boat in crystal clear waters, and a few beach stops and some local fish. Yum! It was like a little glimpse of paradise. Sun, sea and sand.

So, now we are in Rio de Janeiro - the Carnival starts tonight! Can´t wait! Amazing!