Hey ther guys, I'm in RIO!!!!!! Woo hoo!!! I've actually been here for about four days but been super busy. I'll be able to get the photos when I sort them out but I hanglided off a mountain and flew over Rio, how cool is that?! Nearly vommed before I did it though because you literally have to run of the edge of a cliff...very scary!! Of course I've also been to the Jesus Statue and have the obligatory pictures of that. It was nice for about 10 mins when we got up to the top before the heavens opened and we had to literally run for shelter. Funny though! I've managed a total of half a day on the beach as the weather has just been shocking. However, I did manage to bun circles onto my face somehow so as you can imagin I look great!!!!! The one positive aspect of my sunbathing adventure was that it took place on the famous Cocacobana and yes I did play the equally famous tune, which I had blasting out of my phone thanks to Andy! Cheers mate! Today we went to the Favella (the slums of Rio) and had a tour there. It was really interesting and out guide gave us the low down on the political and cultural history and gang warfare there, which I'll tell you all about when I get home! Bet you're all excited about that! Tomorrow I'm off to Santiago and have now officially finished my 10 week tour. On reflection it was one of the best decisions I've ever made to join one as I've had such a good time. I'll be on my next tour this time next week, not sure what thats going to be like but its a different sort of tour anyway so it'll be good. So I'm now preparing myself for leaving South America. It's been my home for three months now, the longest time anywhere for me outside of the UK. I've loved so many things about this place and I've had some of the most memorable experiences of my life, which are invaluable. I do think however that the most important aspect of my trip is the people that I've met and the friends I have made. I know that some will be lifelong friends and I can not wait to visit them all when I get back! Just want to take this moment to say hi to Paddy, Yvonne, and of course my besie Caroline. They all left weeks ago now and I just want to say that they made this trip for me and I'll always remember what great friends they are and look forward to seeing you all soon. Love you guys!! Right, so now I'm off, enough soppiness from me. I'll probably update again once I'm in New Zealand. Wish you guys could have seen the view of Rio from the sky with nothing attatched to you but an overgrown kyte!! Its the closest to flying you can get...amazing!! Speak soon Gem xxxxxx