Riding Through The East Coast Of Brazil

Angra Des Reis

   After the carnival the entire family was wiped out and it was time to rejuvenate. We booked a luxurious beach apartment in a gated community just outside of Angra Des Reis, which was an excellent decision indeed! For 2 days we enjoyed the beach, the views, and each others company. Family time is awesome especially when there is slow cooked ribs involved :P

6-7 MAR 13

Ilha Grande

   The coast of Brazil is full of amazing places but this one really stood out in my mind. There are no cars on the entire island so my family ditched the rental Fiat on the inland and took the ferry across. The ride was nice, quick and cheap lasting for an hour and costing around $2.50 per person.

   We stayed at an awesome hotel Pousada Naturalia that reminded me of a beautiful rain forest. The ecolodge was stunning with a breathtaking ocean view from the hammock on our balcony. It made it hard to leave the room but with so many activities on the island there wasn't much choice.

   First thing is first, we were hungry! With so much choice we took a helpful recommendation and found a wonderful BBQ right on the beach lit up by a tree full of lanterns, which was a sight in itself. We ordered two full fish and a massive steak. All of it was finger licking good and washed down with a cold beer. I tried all the local brands and I have to vouch for Skol which is light, smooth and tasty!

   The next day we were ready to explore so we took a boat tour to see as much as possible. The boat looked like a pirate ship and operated at its speed too. The first stop was the Lagua Verde, a picturistic inlet with aqua green water. The next stop was the Botinas Islands, a group of islands so close you can snorkel around them. For the rest of the day the sun was shining, the water clear, and my family was with me. What else can a girl ask for? Paradise is always a nice place to be but add your loved ones and then it really becomes difficult to leave!

8-9 MAR 13

Paraty

   Tucked away in between São Paulo and Rio is a colourful coastal town of Paraty. I've been to many colonial towns with pebbled streets and bright coloured window frames but this one felt so unique! What made it special was the creative energy that posses the city. Art studios and boutique shops crowd the old town to give visitors hours of entertainment. To add to its charm the old city is for pedestrians only with minimal foot traffic. All four of us loved our short visit and wished we had more time here. 

10 MAR 13