Slightly confused over the fact it is time to open the first door of the advent calendar but yet its necessary to dodge from one bit of shade to the next to avoid the heat.
Opted for what we thought would be an easy and quick transfer to Rio rather than risking arriving by bus in an area that is allegedly a bit dodgy lugging around all our gear. As it was, given the multiple snack stops and the fact we went via the Isla Grande ferry jetty it wasn't all that quick, and although the second driver's rally driving made up time this was rather scary given the slippery roads as a result of the rain greeting our Rio arrival. We were dropped near our hostel though and just had to negotiate the 5 sets of steep stairs.
Hostel rather weird with no information whatsoever, the makeshift building seemingly crumbling around us, and a few dubious characters. Oh and our room had a massive window with no lock, easily negotiable by anyone who fancied some of our stuff. Not great for far and away the most expensive place we have stayed all trip. However things began to look up after we changed rooms and sat on the terrace overlooking a typical Rio skyline of tall buildings and favelas creeping up hills, complete with a great view of the Christ the Redeemer statue. Also enjoyed the tiny little monkeys scampering through the treetops.
Walked through the streets of Botafogo to Urca and the base of the Sugarloaf mountain. Sat on the seawall in the Praia Vermeina bay watching a bunch of people fishing.
Climbing back up the steps to the hostel, cooked dinner and sat amongst the trees taking in the sounds of Rio at night.