Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Link to photos of New Zealand, North Island
http://leedsac.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2240980&l=babc4&id=197810485
Wellington, Nz
After a long journey (due to our bus breaking down), we finally made it to Wellington, which was our final stop in the North Island. We were only there for one night, so although we did not get to see the city by day we managed to go out and sample a few of the bars at night! In the morning we got on board the ferry and made our way to the South Island.
River Valley, Nz
We stayed at River Valley lodge, where there was nothing around you except from trees, rocks, the river and the lodge, it was gorgeous! This was where we did our white water rafting. In the morning they took us up stream and we finished our journey right outside the lodge. The rapids went up to Grade 5, which is the most dangerous you can do!!
On one of the less violent rapids we were allowed to jump out to practice keeping our feet and head above the water in case we were to fall out when we got to the bigger rapids. It was quite diffcult to do and even more difficult to get back into the raft! Our instructor was hillarious, he was from taupo so didnt know the river that well, so it became quite funny when he would ask us what to do next. We also were the only ones with a new raft, which means it becomes more likely to stick to rocks in low levelled areas. Therefore in order for us to fit though some of the rocks and not get stuck we had to keep jumping left or right to tip the boat onto its side! At one point we were stuck for about 5 minutes and in the end our instructor had to climb onto a rock and try to move the boat while we were all still in it, jumping up and down like maniacs.
At one point we got out to have a look in one of the caves, but as we did our raft started to float away, luckily our instructor jumped to the rescue and managed to grab on to it, Jenny and Greg managed to get in just in time too, leaving Kim behind who then had no choice but to jump in the water and to swim to it!!!
On one of the grade 5 rapids there was a small waterfall where you had to make sure you positioned the boat correctly in order to avoid any injuries. Luckily we did, but two other teams didnt manage too. One went sideways and the instructor ended up smashing into a rock on the way down and slicing his arm open, another didnt distribute the weight properly and ended up toppling over, making the people at the back fly forwards off the raft.
The guides told us that when it comes to White Water Rafting, ignorance is bliss, thats why we did not get that scared as we did not know what was around the corner or what could happen if it went wrong. This is one sport where the guides are actually more scared then you!
On one of the less violent rapids we were allowed to jump out to practice keeping our feet and head above the water in case we were to fall out when we got to the bigger rapids. It was quite diffcult to do and even more difficult to get back into the raft! Our instructor was hillarious, he was from taupo so didnt know the river that well, so it became quite funny when he would ask us what to do next. We also were the only ones with a new raft, which means it becomes more likely to stick to rocks in low levelled areas. Therefore in order for us to fit though some of the rocks and not get stuck we had to keep jumping left or right to tip the boat onto its side! At one point we were stuck for about 5 minutes and in the end our instructor had to climb onto a rock and try to move the boat while we were all still in it, jumping up and down like maniacs.
At one point we got out to have a look in one of the caves, but as we did our raft started to float away, luckily our instructor jumped to the rescue and managed to grab on to it, Jenny and Greg managed to get in just in time too, leaving Kim behind who then had no choice but to jump in the water and to swim to it!!!
On one of the grade 5 rapids there was a small waterfall where you had to make sure you positioned the boat correctly in order to avoid any injuries. Luckily we did, but two other teams didnt manage too. One went sideways and the instructor ended up smashing into a rock on the way down and slicing his arm open, another didnt distribute the weight properly and ended up toppling over, making the people at the back fly forwards off the raft.
The guides told us that when it comes to White Water Rafting, ignorance is bliss, thats why we did not get that scared as we did not know what was around the corner or what could happen if it went wrong. This is one sport where the guides are actually more scared then you!
Taupo, Nz
Taupo was a lovely little town, which became the destination for our skydives! We were all very surprised at how we were a lot more excited than scared about jumping 15000ft out of a plane. The flight up tested our heart rates the most, especially when we had to put on oxygen masks once we were above 12000ft. But before we knew it we each took our turns to sit on the edge of the plane with our legs dangling then out we went into a 60s freefall... absolutely incredible. We decided to go for the highest jump as at this point you actually get to see the convex of the earth. During the freefall you got to hold hands with the camera man who came down at the same time with you and spin around with him. Once the parachute opened and you started to breathe again you could start to focus on things and notice all the beautiful scenery around you. The mountains and lake taupo looked spectatular!
While we were in Taupo we also went to a gorgeous spot at sunset, where hot pools had formed and ran into the river there. The temperature could reach up to 40 degrees in some parts.
The night after our skydive we celebrated still being alive by going to Mulligans and joining in a local pub quiz! Believe it or not we actually came second (with the help of many many many others). That night our bus drivers (Spud and Ginny) were out too and they were absolutely hillarious, especially Spud who luckily did not have to drive the next day! Another night we ended up in a karaoke bar, which was also a good laugh, especially when Kim decided to get up and sing 'freebird' and 'light my fire' with Spud.
While we were in Taupo we also went to a gorgeous spot at sunset, where hot pools had formed and ran into the river there. The temperature could reach up to 40 degrees in some parts.
The night after our skydive we celebrated still being alive by going to Mulligans and joining in a local pub quiz! Believe it or not we actually came second (with the help of many many many others). That night our bus drivers (Spud and Ginny) were out too and they were absolutely hillarious, especially Spud who luckily did not have to drive the next day! Another night we ended up in a karaoke bar, which was also a good laugh, especially when Kim decided to get up and sing 'freebird' and 'light my fire' with Spud.
Waitomo, Nz
Waitomo is a very small town where there is only one pub, one shop, a backpackers place and a few houses. But this is where we did Black Water Rafting as it is the only place in New Zealand where you can do it.
The first challenge we had was getting into our wet suits, once we had accomplished that we headed into the caves. You go though the caves on black rubber rings, reaching a depth of 65m, where it is absolutely freezing and the water is like ice. But it was amazing, some of the gaps we had to get through were pretty small, at one point we had to lay flat on our ring and push our way through using our hands, as the rock was so low it came right up to our faces. There were also a couple of small waterfalls which we had to jump off backwards - scary! Some parts were relaxing though such as when we all had to turn our lights off and float along looking up at the glow worms at the top of the cave. By the end of it our fingers were blue, our toes were numb but it was definately worth it!
The first challenge we had was getting into our wet suits, once we had accomplished that we headed into the caves. You go though the caves on black rubber rings, reaching a depth of 65m, where it is absolutely freezing and the water is like ice. But it was amazing, some of the gaps we had to get through were pretty small, at one point we had to lay flat on our ring and push our way through using our hands, as the rock was so low it came right up to our faces. There were also a couple of small waterfalls which we had to jump off backwards - scary! Some parts were relaxing though such as when we all had to turn our lights off and float along looking up at the glow worms at the top of the cave. By the end of it our fingers were blue, our toes were numb but it was definately worth it!
Rotorua, Nz
On the way to Rotorua we stopped off at a beautiful gorge where we had to walk through dark tunnels and across scary wooden bridges that could only hold 10 people at a time. At one point a guy called Jin sat down in teh middle of one of the bridges because he got too scared as others were trying to rock the bridge from side to side!
When we arrived at Rotorua the first thing to hit us was the smell. The town has several mud pools and many geysers, which let off sulphur steam into the atmosphere... the smell can only be described as rotten eggs, not good when your hungover.
In the evening we made it to a Maori night, where we experienced what it would be like to come face to face with a tribe. To begin with we had to choose someone in our group to become cheif and tell the tribe we were there for peace and not war. Before the chief was able to do this the Maori's performed their tribal routine, which envoled several of them coming out with weapons and displaying there skills to us. This is a very serious ritual and we were not allowed to laugh, talk or even smile while it was being performed. There faces were so scary, especially when they made their eyes bulge, stuck their tounge out and screamed out noises to us!
Once this ceremony was over we were allowed to enter into their village , where we were able to learn more about their culture, watch the Haka being performed and enjoyed a big traditional dinner.
When we arrived at Rotorua the first thing to hit us was the smell. The town has several mud pools and many geysers, which let off sulphur steam into the atmosphere... the smell can only be described as rotten eggs, not good when your hungover.
In the evening we made it to a Maori night, where we experienced what it would be like to come face to face with a tribe. To begin with we had to choose someone in our group to become cheif and tell the tribe we were there for peace and not war. Before the chief was able to do this the Maori's performed their tribal routine, which envoled several of them coming out with weapons and displaying there skills to us. This is a very serious ritual and we were not allowed to laugh, talk or even smile while it was being performed. There faces were so scary, especially when they made their eyes bulge, stuck their tounge out and screamed out noises to us!
Once this ceremony was over we were allowed to enter into their village , where we were able to learn more about their culture, watch the Haka being performed and enjoyed a big traditional dinner.
Auckland, New Zealand
Our first stop in New Zealand (North Island) was Auckland. One day we managed to make it up to the top of the sky tower which enabled us to get a 360 degree view of the city, it was amazing but we didnt enjoy walking along the glass floor sections!! We also walked round by the harbour, where all the fancy bars and restaurants were.... would have spent a fortune if we went in anywhere so instead we decided to make our own sandwiches then head to the supermarket to pick up some cheap drinks!!!! When we left Auckland on the Kiwi bus we also got the chance to see Auckland from the top of a dormant volcano, not something you get to do everyday! From Auckland we travelled south to a little place called Mercury Bay, stopping off at cathedral cove on the way. It was really pretty but would have been more enjoyable if it wasnt so cold.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Fiji
We left on Wednesday 14th November and landed in New Zealand on Friday!!!!!!! After meeting up with Greg a few hours later, all three of us spent the rest of the day looking like zombies. The next day we had a bright idea.... that was to spend a small fortune on a flight to Fiji that night... budgets had to be recalculated!!!!!
The first night we stayed in Nadi on the main land, where the mosquitos were there to welcome us. The next day we set sail to Bounty Island; home of Celebraty Love Island. Everywhere in Fiji you are greated by the locals playing the guitar and singing to you with flowers in their hair... including the men! Such a lovely atmosphere.
Bounty was a little taste of paradise, with only taking 20 minutes to walk around it. It was also surrounded by coral reefs which were great for snorkling. We saw some amazing colourful fish including one which was bigger than the three of us put together (almost..)!
The next place we dropped anchor was Walu beach. This was a bigger island and home to several beaches, but all of which seemed to feel remote and tranquil. Luck was on our side as we got upgraded to a gorgeous little lodge with several balconys overlooking the beach. Breakfast lunch and dinner all came as part of our package and every time it was amazing. The first night we even had a three course dinner.... no complaints there! Spent a lot of the time chilling in the sun, sea kayaking, learning to play the guitar and watching the shooting stars at night.
The day we left it decided to tip it down. We got drenched as we had to board a little fishermans boat in order to make it to our ferry which was further out in the ocean... everything went in bin liners including ourselves... it was funny to look back on but freezing at the time!
Fiji has hundreds of small islands and although we only got to see a couple of them we were pleased to get a taster. We definately enjoyed living on 'fiji time' for a while ('fiji time' is their excuse for being chilled/relaxed and never being in a rush to do anything).
The first night we stayed in Nadi on the main land, where the mosquitos were there to welcome us. The next day we set sail to Bounty Island; home of Celebraty Love Island. Everywhere in Fiji you are greated by the locals playing the guitar and singing to you with flowers in their hair... including the men! Such a lovely atmosphere.
Bounty was a little taste of paradise, with only taking 20 minutes to walk around it. It was also surrounded by coral reefs which were great for snorkling. We saw some amazing colourful fish including one which was bigger than the three of us put together (almost..)!
The next place we dropped anchor was Walu beach. This was a bigger island and home to several beaches, but all of which seemed to feel remote and tranquil. Luck was on our side as we got upgraded to a gorgeous little lodge with several balconys overlooking the beach. Breakfast lunch and dinner all came as part of our package and every time it was amazing. The first night we even had a three course dinner.... no complaints there! Spent a lot of the time chilling in the sun, sea kayaking, learning to play the guitar and watching the shooting stars at night.
The day we left it decided to tip it down. We got drenched as we had to board a little fishermans boat in order to make it to our ferry which was further out in the ocean... everything went in bin liners including ourselves... it was funny to look back on but freezing at the time!
Fiji has hundreds of small islands and although we only got to see a couple of them we were pleased to get a taster. We definately enjoyed living on 'fiji time' for a while ('fiji time' is their excuse for being chilled/relaxed and never being in a rush to do anything).
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Chile
Driving through the Andes to cross the border into Chile was spectacular. We only had time for one night here and being our last night in South America we decided to treat ourselves to one last steak then a few drinks. The next day we had a little walk around the city before boarding our flight to New Zealand!!!
Mendoza
Famously known for its wine we spent the first day on the wine tour. We hired bicycles and cycled to the different vineyards tasting plenty of red wine, liquors and chocolates. We tried to be sophisticated, holding the glass at the base, swirling it to let it breathe, sniffing it twice and swishing it around our mouths for 6-7 seconds before swallowing... but realised we had failed miserably after laughing at the question "do you spit or do you swallow?", Jenny smashing a wine glass all over the table, not being able to tell a blind bit of difference between the wines and Kim tumbling off her bike after a few too many.
Mountains form the backdrop of Mendoza due to it being next to the Andes. To get a closer look we decided to go quadbiking through them... a lot more fun than hiking! We kept getting the giggles as we both looked ridiculous in our orange sunglasses, vest, and massive helmets... but as we all know safety comes first! We spent three hours racing up and down the mountains, enjoying all the breathtaking views.
Mendoza is a beautiful city, with lovely parks, shops, restaurants and bars! Could have easily spent more time here.
Mountains form the backdrop of Mendoza due to it being next to the Andes. To get a closer look we decided to go quadbiking through them... a lot more fun than hiking! We kept getting the giggles as we both looked ridiculous in our orange sunglasses, vest, and massive helmets... but as we all know safety comes first! We spent three hours racing up and down the mountains, enjoying all the breathtaking views.
Mendoza is a beautiful city, with lovely parks, shops, restaurants and bars! Could have easily spent more time here.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Buenos Aires
In comparision to Brazil it is cheap and has a european feel. We spent many hours bustling around the brilliant shops and markets trying to resist the bargains, especially on leather goods.
We arrived at midnight assuming we had missed our first night out due to our delayed flight, however we still had time to find a hostel, have a shower, drink a few bottles of wine and still make it to a club. BA is definitely a party city!
We stayed at Millhouse hostel which hosted a fancy dress party on halloween. A few hours before kick off we decided we would dress up... looking at the pharmacy across the road we decided we would go as mummy's.. a slight underestimation of bandages left us with bare arms and legs, but we made up for it with our crazy hair and makeup.
We attended a killers concert and went to Pacha (one of the biggest clubs in BA)... both were absolutely amazing!! Unfortunately in Pacha our money and camera were stolen which put a bit of downer on the evening. To make up for it we decided we come back the following weekend and go to the creamfields festival... best decision ever! Partying from 6pm - 6am we loved every second of it.
By day we visited the famous Recoleta cemetry where Evita was burried. It was like walking down streets rather than through a grave yard with the gravestones towering above us with amazing architecture and statues. We also visited the colonial town of La Boca, which had live music, tango dancers in the streets all the buildings were multicoloured.
We arrived at midnight assuming we had missed our first night out due to our delayed flight, however we still had time to find a hostel, have a shower, drink a few bottles of wine and still make it to a club. BA is definitely a party city!
We stayed at Millhouse hostel which hosted a fancy dress party on halloween. A few hours before kick off we decided we would dress up... looking at the pharmacy across the road we decided we would go as mummy's.. a slight underestimation of bandages left us with bare arms and legs, but we made up for it with our crazy hair and makeup.
We attended a killers concert and went to Pacha (one of the biggest clubs in BA)... both were absolutely amazing!! Unfortunately in Pacha our money and camera were stolen which put a bit of downer on the evening. To make up for it we decided we come back the following weekend and go to the creamfields festival... best decision ever! Partying from 6pm - 6am we loved every second of it.
By day we visited the famous Recoleta cemetry where Evita was burried. It was like walking down streets rather than through a grave yard with the gravestones towering above us with amazing architecture and statues. We also visited the colonial town of La Boca, which had live music, tango dancers in the streets all the buildings were multicoloured.
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Link to photos of the east coast of Brazil
http://leedsac.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2231122&l=694fa&id=197810485
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Argentina!
After a few tears and our wallets telling us it was time to move on (as Brazil is the most expensive place to be in South America) we finally made our way out of Brazil and in to Argentina.
Ipanema, Rio
We travelled back to Rio just for one day, as a stop over before heading to Argentina. Was lovely to be back, although instead of staying in Copacabana we stayed in Ipanema, which is a little bit more up market. The streets were filled with fancy cafes and posh shops. If only we could have been rich for the day!!!
Saquerema
After kim falling to the floor like a sack of potatoes with her ruck sack on her back we finally made it to our Hostel in Saquerema. It was right on the beach, you could see and hear the waves from our room. We had the sweetest woman at our hostel who looked after us, told us all about her life and family and even drove us to the bus station when we left.
The beach seemed to stretch for miles and only ever had a few people on it. We spent many hours on it just chilling and watching people surf... they were brilliant. But the water there was freezing and some of the waves were massive, think we are going to wait until we get to Oz before we master the art of surfing.
The beach seemed to stretch for miles and only ever had a few people on it. We spent many hours on it just chilling and watching people surf... they were brilliant. But the water there was freezing and some of the waves were massive, think we are going to wait until we get to Oz before we master the art of surfing.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Buzios
Famously known as the St. Tropez of Brazil. Questionable? We only ended up spending two nights and one day here as the weather was terrible and it was not going to improve. Looking past the torrential rain we could see the potential of this pretty town. It is very wealthy, with plenty of posh shops and restaurants, which we were sure to make the most of. We both treated ourselves to a couple of fancy meals, consisting of steaks, seafood and even indulged in a couple of desserts. All of this still only costing less than ten pounds each... fantastic!
Morro de Sao Paulo
Probably the most fantastic, gorgeous and spectacular island ever with the most amazing people, beaches, and way of life. Can you tell we enjoyed ourselves here?
After salvador we followed recommendations and took a boat to Morro de Sao Paulo. What we thought was just going to be a pleasant day on a little beach, turned out to be a few surreal days of paradise. From our hostel we walked through the streets, which were covered in soft golden sand and headed towards the beaches. We strolled along the first beach which was beautiful, letting the clear warm water splash over our feet. As we ventured further we discovered the other four beaches, which stretched for miles!!!!!! Our favourite spot was on the fourth beach, the biggest out of the five, the water was shallow and calm, with only the odd local selling coconuts to disturb you. Horse and carriage rides trotted by, while others rode their horses along the beach front. After our constant bad luck with the weather we were more than pleased to start bronzing ourselves.
In the evenings we made ourselves at home at Toca; the sunset bar. It was far up in the hills, where you would spend a few hours after the beach watching the sunset and listening to the DJ playing chillout music.
The locals here were fascinating to talk to, their way of life is incredible. They really appreciate their natural surroundings, using wheelbarrows to transport things across the island, and telling the time by the sun only, we fell in love with the simplicity of their life. We were told to throw our watches away as time was irrelevant, you eat when your hungry, sleep when your tired, and dance when you want to party!
We were almost in tears when we had to leave, but on our journey back down to the south of Brazil we came up with a plan! We WILL return and set up our own cocktail bar, living the dreamful life of Morro de Sao Paulo.
After salvador we followed recommendations and took a boat to Morro de Sao Paulo. What we thought was just going to be a pleasant day on a little beach, turned out to be a few surreal days of paradise. From our hostel we walked through the streets, which were covered in soft golden sand and headed towards the beaches. We strolled along the first beach which was beautiful, letting the clear warm water splash over our feet. As we ventured further we discovered the other four beaches, which stretched for miles!!!!!! Our favourite spot was on the fourth beach, the biggest out of the five, the water was shallow and calm, with only the odd local selling coconuts to disturb you. Horse and carriage rides trotted by, while others rode their horses along the beach front. After our constant bad luck with the weather we were more than pleased to start bronzing ourselves.
In the evenings we made ourselves at home at Toca; the sunset bar. It was far up in the hills, where you would spend a few hours after the beach watching the sunset and listening to the DJ playing chillout music.
The locals here were fascinating to talk to, their way of life is incredible. They really appreciate their natural surroundings, using wheelbarrows to transport things across the island, and telling the time by the sun only, we fell in love with the simplicity of their life. We were told to throw our watches away as time was irrelevant, you eat when your hungry, sleep when your tired, and dance when you want to party!
We were almost in tears when we had to leave, but on our journey back down to the south of Brazil we came up with a plan! We WILL return and set up our own cocktail bar, living the dreamful life of Morro de Sao Paulo.
Salvador
The music capital of Brazil with an afro-caribbean culture!
We arrrived on the tuesday night which happened to be the party night of salvador, after only a couple of hours we found ourselves in the centre of the action. Every street we walked down there were drums banging, guitars playing and men dancing. There were crowds everywhere with locals meeting up and choreographing their own routines, what would start off with two or three people dancing would end up with ten or more. The atmosphere was incredible. We sampled a few of their cocktails made from fruits of the amazon, after which we found our hips wiggling and our shoulders swaying to the beats of the drums! After a few nights we were able to follow their routines and feel like a true local.
By day you can appreciate the citys beautiful architecture, whilst the atmosphere in the streets remained with the bustling markets, live music and the famous capoeira (a local marshal art) being performed.
All in all definately worth the painful 36 hour journey from the pantanal. We feel like we have experienced the true Brazil, and loved every second.
We arrrived on the tuesday night which happened to be the party night of salvador, after only a couple of hours we found ourselves in the centre of the action. Every street we walked down there were drums banging, guitars playing and men dancing. There were crowds everywhere with locals meeting up and choreographing their own routines, what would start off with two or three people dancing would end up with ten or more. The atmosphere was incredible. We sampled a few of their cocktails made from fruits of the amazon, after which we found our hips wiggling and our shoulders swaying to the beats of the drums! After a few nights we were able to follow their routines and feel like a true local.
By day you can appreciate the citys beautiful architecture, whilst the atmosphere in the streets remained with the bustling markets, live music and the famous capoeira (a local marshal art) being performed.
All in all definately worth the painful 36 hour journey from the pantanal. We feel like we have experienced the true Brazil, and loved every second.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Link to photos of Iguaçu falls and the pantanal
http://leedsac.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2223914&l=5c73b&id=197810485
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
The Pantanal
Day 1: The Arrival
What a disaster of a night!!!!! When we first arrived the place looked beautiful with wooden lodges located on the river bed, wild horses roaming and the sun setting. But as the night set in the flys, mosquitos, beatles & cockroaches came out in force! We were led to our room only to find out we were staying in the concrete shack at the end only accessible by a creeky bridge with no barriers or lights. Jenny decided to brave it in the shower first but came face to face with 5 big slimey frogs. You would know when one moved by the screams coming from the bathroom! Kim went in second knowing what she had to face but little did she know she would get stuck in there with no handle on the door. After fits of giggles Jenny failed at kicking the door down and ran out in the dark to get help.
The flies in the room were digusting... landing on our beds, in our hair and on our skin. It was horrible! After intoxicating the room with bug repellant we ran to get dinner. Again this was not a pleasant experience with more bugs on our chairs, tables and in our food!!
It was ridiculously hot trying to sleep, we managed to borrow a fan off the barman. After finally cooling down and drifting off to sleep the fan blew up into flames next to kims head! That was enough bad luck for us.. we wanted to come home!
Day 2: Jeep Safari and Trekking
When we woke up we were pleasantly suprised.. the bugs had gone, our mood was lifted and we were ready to start our jungle experience. The jeep drove us down the dirt tracks stopping at the waterholes to look at the animals. The storks were the size of ostriches and the colourful birds were beautiful, especially the toocans.
The caimans (aligators) were everywhere. We found one all alone so our driver only decided to catch the bloody thing! Some were brave to hold it but we were scared and didnt think we were strong enough. We did however get up close for a quick photo but then we were out of there!!
The trek led us through woodlands where we came across many animals such as monkeys, parrots, deer, racoons, anteaters and kingfishers. We were forced to walk through the swamps up to our thighs.. they stank and we were petrified of stepping on anacondas!
Day 3: Boat Trip, Horse Riding, Jewellery Making and Caiman Hunting
The boat trip in the morning was very relaxing. The air was cool and the waters were calm. We managed to get up close to yet more caimans and hear the deafening noise of the howling monkeys.
In the afternoon we got on our horses (more like mules) and rode for 3 hours through the Pantanal, finishing with us galloping into the sunset.
After dinner our tour guide showed us how to make necklaces out of the some of the plants we had collected from the trek and made us both one to keep as a souvenier.
After dark we went caimen hunting! We took our torches, watching our every step and walked to the river. We came across a small poisenous snake that was luckily spotted by Jenny before clumbsy Kim would have stepped on it. As we reached the river the noises of the jungle were intense. Fear hit us when we shined our torches onto the water and saw the hundreds of pairs of eyes staring back at us! Our tour guide caught a baby one, we were brave enough to hold this one.. he was cutie!
Day 4: Piranha Fishing and Tubing
When we were told to stand in the water and fish for the piranhas 3 feet in front of us we were not amused. Nevertheless we jumped straight in. While little fish were sucking and nibbling our toes we were concentrating of the constant bites on the end of our rods from the hungry piranhas! Kim got excited when she caught her first fish only to be disappointed when she was told it was a sardine. We went through half a cow and a ton of eels but we successfully caught some piranhas which we cooked up for lunch. We could have fished all day, being the only ones left in the river they had to drag us away.
Tubing.... not the most sensible of activities but we couldnt miss out. They took us up the river and crueley dropped us off next to a caiman where we had to enter the water and drift back to the hostel for 45 minutes on our rubber rings. At first we were terrified jumping and screaming at anything we felt but we quickly relaxed and thoroughly enjoyed our float back. You will be pleased to know we survived our swim with the caimans, anacondas and piranhas!
What a disaster of a night!!!!! When we first arrived the place looked beautiful with wooden lodges located on the river bed, wild horses roaming and the sun setting. But as the night set in the flys, mosquitos, beatles & cockroaches came out in force! We were led to our room only to find out we were staying in the concrete shack at the end only accessible by a creeky bridge with no barriers or lights. Jenny decided to brave it in the shower first but came face to face with 5 big slimey frogs. You would know when one moved by the screams coming from the bathroom! Kim went in second knowing what she had to face but little did she know she would get stuck in there with no handle on the door. After fits of giggles Jenny failed at kicking the door down and ran out in the dark to get help.
The flies in the room were digusting... landing on our beds, in our hair and on our skin. It was horrible! After intoxicating the room with bug repellant we ran to get dinner. Again this was not a pleasant experience with more bugs on our chairs, tables and in our food!!
It was ridiculously hot trying to sleep, we managed to borrow a fan off the barman. After finally cooling down and drifting off to sleep the fan blew up into flames next to kims head! That was enough bad luck for us.. we wanted to come home!
Day 2: Jeep Safari and Trekking
When we woke up we were pleasantly suprised.. the bugs had gone, our mood was lifted and we were ready to start our jungle experience. The jeep drove us down the dirt tracks stopping at the waterholes to look at the animals. The storks were the size of ostriches and the colourful birds were beautiful, especially the toocans.
The caimans (aligators) were everywhere. We found one all alone so our driver only decided to catch the bloody thing! Some were brave to hold it but we were scared and didnt think we were strong enough. We did however get up close for a quick photo but then we were out of there!!
The trek led us through woodlands where we came across many animals such as monkeys, parrots, deer, racoons, anteaters and kingfishers. We were forced to walk through the swamps up to our thighs.. they stank and we were petrified of stepping on anacondas!
Day 3: Boat Trip, Horse Riding, Jewellery Making and Caiman Hunting
The boat trip in the morning was very relaxing. The air was cool and the waters were calm. We managed to get up close to yet more caimans and hear the deafening noise of the howling monkeys.
In the afternoon we got on our horses (more like mules) and rode for 3 hours through the Pantanal, finishing with us galloping into the sunset.
After dinner our tour guide showed us how to make necklaces out of the some of the plants we had collected from the trek and made us both one to keep as a souvenier.
After dark we went caimen hunting! We took our torches, watching our every step and walked to the river. We came across a small poisenous snake that was luckily spotted by Jenny before clumbsy Kim would have stepped on it. As we reached the river the noises of the jungle were intense. Fear hit us when we shined our torches onto the water and saw the hundreds of pairs of eyes staring back at us! Our tour guide caught a baby one, we were brave enough to hold this one.. he was cutie!
Day 4: Piranha Fishing and Tubing
When we were told to stand in the water and fish for the piranhas 3 feet in front of us we were not amused. Nevertheless we jumped straight in. While little fish were sucking and nibbling our toes we were concentrating of the constant bites on the end of our rods from the hungry piranhas! Kim got excited when she caught her first fish only to be disappointed when she was told it was a sardine. We went through half a cow and a ton of eels but we successfully caught some piranhas which we cooked up for lunch. We could have fished all day, being the only ones left in the river they had to drag us away.
Tubing.... not the most sensible of activities but we couldnt miss out. They took us up the river and crueley dropped us off next to a caiman where we had to enter the water and drift back to the hostel for 45 minutes on our rubber rings. At first we were terrified jumping and screaming at anything we felt but we quickly relaxed and thoroughly enjoyed our float back. You will be pleased to know we survived our swim with the caimans, anacondas and piranhas!
Iguaçu Falls
We spent the first day on the Brazilian side where you get the panoramic views of the falls. We walked the entire width of the falls which are 4 times greater than niagra. Then we crossed the border into Argentina where we miserably tried to adapt our portugese phrases into spanish. The hostel we stayed in was luxurious. We had our own little house by the pool, a bar, a laundrette, pool tables, table tennis and a nice restaurant. We were happy!
On the argentine side we walked across the rivers along the top of the waterfalls. We were surrounded by beautiful butterflies which made the place feel magical, we felt like two little fairies. The views and the sound of the water crashing down was amazing. We made our way down to sea level by jeep where a speed boat took us over the rapids and towards the waterfalls. Little did we know we would end up fully submerged by part of the waterfall gasping for breath and holding on for dear life! An experience never to be forgotten.
On the argentine side we walked across the rivers along the top of the waterfalls. We were surrounded by beautiful butterflies which made the place feel magical, we felt like two little fairies. The views and the sound of the water crashing down was amazing. We made our way down to sea level by jeep where a speed boat took us over the rapids and towards the waterfalls. Little did we know we would end up fully submerged by part of the waterfall gasping for breath and holding on for dear life! An experience never to be forgotten.
Friday, October 5, 2007
Link to photos of Ilha Grande, Paraty and Florianopolis
http://leedsac.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2217479&l=c3a44&id=197810485
Link to photos of our first week in Rio
http://leedsac.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2212671&l=bfab6&id=197810485
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Florianopolis
After a 6 hour bus journey to Sao Paulo, and then an 11 hour night bus we arrived in Florainopolis very tired and in need of a place to stay. But it took us about 4 hours of trekking with our bags in the heat of teh day to finally realise where we needed to get to!! Shoulder and backs killing us! A lovely couple welcomed us to their quiet hostel, where we met up with another friend from mellow yellow.
After a well needed kip on the beach we had a lovely BBQ and drinks at the hostel. The next day the sun finally came out so we the morning on the beach and went to the town for the afternoon for some lunch.
The day after we went sand boarding.... it was so much fun. We started off on the stand up boards but after a few too many falls and eating a ton of sand we decided to try out the bum boards..... we were hilarious to watch. There is a video of us on facebook, for those of you that can get on to it, but to fill in for those who cant get on it - we are sand boarding from one of the biggest peaks and ended up with kim loosing control and slamming into the back of jenny.... jenny ended up flipping over, getting her leg stuck in the board and kim ended up in histerics!!!! The boys were a bit better than us as they are used to surfing but they still had a few funny tumbles on the way down.
Supposed to leave on friday night.... but ended up missing the bus... thanks to our fellow travel buddies!!! But it didnt turn out to be all bad as ended up staying in a nice hotel in the centre of florianopolis. We didnt want to travel back to our hostel as it was too far and this hotel worked out to be cheaper than the hostels in the centre! Lucky us. We forgot what it was like to be some where so clean.... we had a sea view, a lovely bathroom, toilet paper that was folded into a point at the end.... couldnt believe it! That night we decided to go out for dinner and hit a couple of clubs where we danced the night away!
The next day we hired a car out and went to the south of the island, it was really nice just to travel round and stop where you wanted to. Finally on our last day we just spent a bit of time in town then got on our night bus to go to the iguassu falls.
After a well needed kip on the beach we had a lovely BBQ and drinks at the hostel. The next day the sun finally came out so we the morning on the beach and went to the town for the afternoon for some lunch.
The day after we went sand boarding.... it was so much fun. We started off on the stand up boards but after a few too many falls and eating a ton of sand we decided to try out the bum boards..... we were hilarious to watch. There is a video of us on facebook, for those of you that can get on to it, but to fill in for those who cant get on it - we are sand boarding from one of the biggest peaks and ended up with kim loosing control and slamming into the back of jenny.... jenny ended up flipping over, getting her leg stuck in the board and kim ended up in histerics!!!! The boys were a bit better than us as they are used to surfing but they still had a few funny tumbles on the way down.
Supposed to leave on friday night.... but ended up missing the bus... thanks to our fellow travel buddies!!! But it didnt turn out to be all bad as ended up staying in a nice hotel in the centre of florianopolis. We didnt want to travel back to our hostel as it was too far and this hotel worked out to be cheaper than the hostels in the centre! Lucky us. We forgot what it was like to be some where so clean.... we had a sea view, a lovely bathroom, toilet paper that was folded into a point at the end.... couldnt believe it! That night we decided to go out for dinner and hit a couple of clubs where we danced the night away!
The next day we hired a car out and went to the south of the island, it was really nice just to travel round and stop where you wanted to. Finally on our last day we just spent a bit of time in town then got on our night bus to go to the iguassu falls.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Paraty
After a ferry ride and few hours bus journey we arrived in Paraty. When we arrived there was a tropical rain storm so we dumped our bags in the hostel and decided to not let it stop us explore the town. We got drenched!!!!!! Ended up getting lost and being in the rain for 5 hours, i think buying rain jackets on the way home was too little too late!
Paraty is a colourful little artists town on the coast with cobbled streets and lots of nice shops. A little pricey but well worth the visit. There are lots of small islands nearby that you can visit by boat but the weather stopped us from doing that. Had a quiet few days here apart from our last night where we went to the beach as there was a live band playing. Ended the night by dancing and singing along the cobbled sreets on our way home.... again in the rain!!
Paraty is a colourful little artists town on the coast with cobbled streets and lots of nice shops. A little pricey but well worth the visit. There are lots of small islands nearby that you can visit by boat but the weather stopped us from doing that. Had a quiet few days here apart from our last night where we went to the beach as there was a live band playing. Ended the night by dancing and singing along the cobbled sreets on our way home.... again in the rain!!
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Ilha Grande
After a bus and a ferry ride we made it to Ilha Grande. What a beautiful place and just what we needed after such a hectic week in Rio. We ended up staying in the most amazing room, overlooking the whole beach, with our own balcony.
We were only planning on staying there a couple of nights but ended up staying there 5!!!! The weather wasnt great (as its still winter here), but we were determined to make the most of our time there, so on one of the days we went on a boat trip to the blue lagoon and went snorkling.... taking no towels or jumpers we ended up shivering for most of the trip. We did brave it and go snorkling and the fish swam so close to you but when we got out our toes went blue and we couldnt stop shivering. After a couple of hot chocolates and cuddles we managed to get the blood flowing again.
The next day a few of us decided to walk across to the old prisons on the island, but after taking the wrong road at the beginnng we ended up on a 3 hour hike through the mountains to the other side of the island, where we found a quiet little town. We had a little walk around, went to the beach (we were the only ones there, it was lovely) and then realised we had the horrible trek back.... got histerical towards the end, lost count of how many times we nearly fell over... wearing flip flops was not the best idea we have ever had!!!
Finaly when the sun decided to come out on the thursday we went to Lopes Mendes, a gorgeous beach with sand that felt like flour. It was fun watching the guys trying to surf, we would have joined in but it was a bit too rough for us little girlies.
Made friends with some spider monkeys, adorable little things, greedy buggers tho.
To top it off we saw dolphins on the boat back, so exciting!
Spent most of the evenings on the island going out for cheap dinners and drinking till early in the morning. Always a sign of a good night whe you wake up with permanent marker all over you!!!!!
Finally we left on Friday and headed to Paraty.
We were only planning on staying there a couple of nights but ended up staying there 5!!!! The weather wasnt great (as its still winter here), but we were determined to make the most of our time there, so on one of the days we went on a boat trip to the blue lagoon and went snorkling.... taking no towels or jumpers we ended up shivering for most of the trip. We did brave it and go snorkling and the fish swam so close to you but when we got out our toes went blue and we couldnt stop shivering. After a couple of hot chocolates and cuddles we managed to get the blood flowing again.
The next day a few of us decided to walk across to the old prisons on the island, but after taking the wrong road at the beginnng we ended up on a 3 hour hike through the mountains to the other side of the island, where we found a quiet little town. We had a little walk around, went to the beach (we were the only ones there, it was lovely) and then realised we had the horrible trek back.... got histerical towards the end, lost count of how many times we nearly fell over... wearing flip flops was not the best idea we have ever had!!!
Finaly when the sun decided to come out on the thursday we went to Lopes Mendes, a gorgeous beach with sand that felt like flour. It was fun watching the guys trying to surf, we would have joined in but it was a bit too rough for us little girlies.
Made friends with some spider monkeys, adorable little things, greedy buggers tho.
To top it off we saw dolphins on the boat back, so exciting!
Spent most of the evenings on the island going out for cheap dinners and drinking till early in the morning. Always a sign of a good night whe you wake up with permanent marker all over you!!!!!
Finally we left on Friday and headed to Paraty.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Boat trip, Christ statue, Sugar loaf mountain and Favela tour
Boat trip was brilliant, not very cultural just consisted of drinking and eating and singing as loud as we could while dancing on top of the boat... all good fun. Then that night we went to Da house club in Leblon, brilliant music.
The next day we went the christ statue, we didnt go all the way to the top as they had stopped letting people in so we went to a spot just further up the road, but the views were just as good, you could see for miles.
The next day we decided to do sugar loaf mountain for sunset, you have to get a tram which takes you to the top of the mountain, pretty scary but well worth it when you get to the top, it was so peaceful, you could just sit there for hours. When we got back we just stayed in at the hostel.
Today has been a little bit more of a culture shock, we went on the favela tour (a shanty town), when we arrived we had to get on the back of these motorbikes and get taken to the top of the town..... very scary, but so much fun once we realised we were still alive when we got to the top! Then we walked throughout the whole town, there was 200,000 people living there and only 4 schools, crazy!! Its hard to take in how people live like that, and yet they all seem so happy, the children there were adorable, they all wanted to be cuddled or have their picture taken with you.
We were encouraged to take pictures and show the kids as they enjoyed seeing themselves, but at certain times you were not allowed to take pictures, this was when the men with guns and fireworks were about. The fireworks get set off if police come into the shanty town as this then alerts all the men with guns to get ready for fire. The police and the gangs then fire at each otherand people get caught in between, such a culture shock but really good experience.
The next day we went the christ statue, we didnt go all the way to the top as they had stopped letting people in so we went to a spot just further up the road, but the views were just as good, you could see for miles.
The next day we decided to do sugar loaf mountain for sunset, you have to get a tram which takes you to the top of the mountain, pretty scary but well worth it when you get to the top, it was so peaceful, you could just sit there for hours. When we got back we just stayed in at the hostel.
Today has been a little bit more of a culture shock, we went on the favela tour (a shanty town), when we arrived we had to get on the back of these motorbikes and get taken to the top of the town..... very scary, but so much fun once we realised we were still alive when we got to the top! Then we walked throughout the whole town, there was 200,000 people living there and only 4 schools, crazy!! Its hard to take in how people live like that, and yet they all seem so happy, the children there were adorable, they all wanted to be cuddled or have their picture taken with you.
We were encouraged to take pictures and show the kids as they enjoyed seeing themselves, but at certain times you were not allowed to take pictures, this was when the men with guns and fireworks were about. The fireworks get set off if police come into the shanty town as this then alerts all the men with guns to get ready for fire. The police and the gangs then fire at each otherand people get caught in between, such a culture shock but really good experience.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Life at Mellow Yellow in Rio
Went to the BBQ and just stayed in the hostel drinking on the sat night, originally it was supposed to be a quiet night as we were quite jet lagged but instead we didnt end up gettin to bed till 5am!! Everyone at the hostel are lovely and such a laugh. Eventually when we managed to get out of bed at 2pm on the sunday we went to one of the biggest football matches in Brazil, it was a local derby, and it was an amazing experience. There was about 120000 people there and the atmosphere was crazy, couldnt understand any of the chants but we still joined in. Will put piccys up soon. Then we got back at about 9, had a power nap then headed out at around midnight to go to a samba party in favela. Dont know how to explain what this party was like, but there was extreme dancing, indoor fireworks and beers for about 35p... another good night!
Today the weather hasnt been very good, went to the beach but it started to rain, we were going to see the christ statue at sunset too but we are going to wait for a better day. Got a boat trip planned for tomorrow so going to try and have a quite night in... ??? Or at least try not to drink too much!
Hope you are all well back at home.
Lots of love xxx
Today the weather hasnt been very good, went to the beach but it started to rain, we were going to see the christ statue at sunset too but we are going to wait for a better day. Got a boat trip planned for tomorrow so going to try and have a quite night in... ??? Or at least try not to drink too much!
Hope you are all well back at home.
Lots of love xxx
Saturday, September 15, 2007
First Day in Rio
After a very long but suprisingly enjoyable flight we landed in Rio. Past our first scam test where a dodgy taxi driver tried to rip us off at the airport but our clever senses told us NO!!!
Arrived at our Hostel, little shocked with how it all looks... our faces said it all! All we can say is we have a sheet and a mattress each and a very hot room!!! Nevertheless we wandered down to copacabana beach but again became a little shocked at the size and amount of people, but we had a little dip in the sea, a little sleep on the sand then had a walk through Rio back to our hostel, where we would love to have our first shower but we do not think we are brave enough yet - they are grotty!!
Think we are going to go to a BBQ tonight then head out to a samba party. Got lots of trips and sightseeing planned for the week so will keep you all updated.
Lots of love xxx
Arrived at our Hostel, little shocked with how it all looks... our faces said it all! All we can say is we have a sheet and a mattress each and a very hot room!!! Nevertheless we wandered down to copacabana beach but again became a little shocked at the size and amount of people, but we had a little dip in the sea, a little sleep on the sand then had a walk through Rio back to our hostel, where we would love to have our first shower but we do not think we are brave enough yet - they are grotty!!
Think we are going to go to a BBQ tonight then head out to a samba party. Got lots of trips and sightseeing planned for the week so will keep you all updated.
Lots of love xxx
Friday, September 14, 2007
The day of our departure
Spent most of the morning on the phone to each other asking the same questions over and over again and i dont think we managed to answer any of them? Stressful day, but filled with excitement. Going to miss everyone. x
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