The next stop is Paraty. We are on an organised tour at the minute - 12 in a group being herded around, told what bus to get onto, where to sleep, what time to go out etc, it certainly makes for an easier life! Paraty is a small Brazilian town which has given us a bit more of a taste of Brazilian life. Brazil is a stunning country. Everywhere is green and mountainous, however, there is a great deal of poverty too. On the one day of sunshine we have had, we headed over to a beautiful beach for a day of sunbathing. It was here that I had my second encounter with nature. Out of a group of 8 of us, a cricket kept jumping on me - would not leave me alone. I spoilt the whole tranquility of the beach, running around, screaming. Apparently it had something to do with the sparkly bits on my kaftan (another impractical item which found its way into my backpack). We also went on a day trip - the journey involved travelling along bumpy roads with a sheer drop at the side on what can only be described as a milk float. It was absolutely terrifying, especially when the driver got out to say - this is the bit where you need to hold on. It is all part of the fun though. Apparently. We spent the day in various distilleries and also slid down a huge waterfall. Not sure whether insurance would have covered us had we smashed our heads on the rocks below, but again, it goes back to all being part of the fun! Also paid for the pleasure of visiting a garden centre. Not fun in England. Not fun in Brazil either. I have been bitten a few times by mosquitos so using gin as a deterent. Not working thus far but willing to persevere. All in all though, having a great time in Brazil. The food is amazing. Scenery fab and meeting lots of interesting people. Thanks for your messages and emails, it truly is great to hear from you all. Hopefully I will some pictures on soon. Katherine xxx