Have finally arrived in Rio and there is definitely a party atmosphere in the air. Sorry to say goodbye to Paraty but after Rio there is going to be lots more beach towns. I spent the last day in Paraty doing a little shopping and a little relaxing on the beach. We did a total truck clean which took just over 1hr. Everything had to come off the truck inside and out and get a clean but just about everyone mucked in and helped.

So, Thursday morning we had been allocated a 9am departure. With all the Tucan trucks heading to Rio, they wanted us all spread out so we didn't hit Rio at the same time. We could tell we had hit Rio due to being stuck in traffic for a good hour or more. We drove past the Sambadrome which is where the big samba parade happens. We have tickets for Sunday night and can't wait. Took a while to check into the hotel but glad to reach our rooms with air conditioning, a bed and a lovely clean and hot shower. Went for a wander to get some lunch and have a look around hotel area. We are staying in the downtown centre but plenty of buses to get around.

We went out for a farewell dinner last night as half of the truck will no longer be on tour with us. Got to use the Metro system which seems to be pretty easy to follow. A favourite type of restaurant here is "pay by the kilo". When you enter, you get a card with a number and every time you go up to the buffet, your plate is weighed and entered into the computer. At the end of the night you pay for whatever you ate and drank. Good for group dinners with no worries about the bill although the waiters mixed up a few of the drink orders. Can't have it all. I headed back early with some of the others wanting to get some decent sleep.

So, this morning I went HANDGLIDING. It was fantastic. We were picked up and taken to the beach where we would be landing. After signing waivers, half of us were driven up to Pedro Bonita, 690m above sea level. Before I knew it, I was strapped into my harness, I had a practice run with my instructor, we were strapped into the glider and after a few running steps on the platform we were airborne. It felt like we were floating. The conditions were perfect for it and just gave you an incredible view. You could see the central part of the city in the distance and then we were floating over the ocean before coming down to land on the beach. It was over way too quick but so glad I decided to do it, was a very last minute decision but what a way to start off in Rio.

I had my camera strapped to my hand and took some photos and they had a camera attached to the glider and took photos by remote so I bought that CD off them since it is a once off event. Waited for the others to fly and then headed back to the hotel. I was so exhausted I actually went to bed and slept on and off for about 4hrs. I decided today would be a rest day as I am going to need plenty of energy for the next few days. Tonight we are going to possibly go to Sambaland, an area with food and drinks and live concert stages and then maybe hit one of the street parties. There is going to be some sleepless nights ahead I think, but I can't wait.