Brazil

So far, South America has not failed to impress, and Rio de Janeiro has been no exception. Coming from the safer cities and hearing about the notoriety of Rio's street crime makes for slightly uneasy feelings upon arrival, but touch wood, it's been fine so far.

The majority of my time here has been spent "at the Copa, Copacabana.." at the prettier, more hip and upmarket Ipanema beaches. The words 'Ken' and 'Barbie' spring to mind, as well as 'amazing football skills' and 'God those waves are huge.'

We've also made a trip up to the infamous Christ statue which overlooks Rio - a towering figure tries his best to impose his spiritual authority in an overwhelmingly Cathloic country but one that is unfortunately plagued with favela poverty and consequently petty and common street crime.

Lazing in the Mellow Yellow hostel spa is also a daily occurence, as is finding places to eat amazing steak; Brazil gives Argentina a run for its gastronomic money when it comes to the beef, but what cam be said is if you want to eat the best steak in the world, this is where you need to come!

We are off to Ilha Grande tomorrow to get away from the city life and relax on a secluded and idyllic beach somewhere soth-west of Rio. You will be hearing from me again soon. In the mean time, if you are reading this, please leave me a comment or two! It's great to hear from friends and knowing that you're visiting to find out what I'm up to. Keep it real, and spicy.