As we sailed into Rio de Janeiro, it was obvious why the view from the harbor is considered one of the modern wonders of the world. Christ the Redeemer sits at the top of one of the many forested peaks that encircle the sprawling white beaches and modern city. Copacabana and Ipanema beaches are right in Rio.
Rio is a perplexing place because its famous beaches, busy downtown and wealthiest neighborhoods bump right up against the favelas (slums) that are scattered all over the city and its suburbs. Historically, powerful gangs ran the favelas and crime was rampant in Rio. The upcoming World Cup and Olympics spurred a huge crackdown in the favelas and police have regained control of most of the communities. We toured the Favela do Alemão in Bonsucesso where gondolas, identical to those on a Colorado ski hill, were built to transport residents to and from work. From the gondola, we had a bird’s eye view into the favela communities and activities. As we walked through a safe section on a Sunday afternoon, the streets were rocking with music and happy people, and we had numerous greetings and even accepted an offer to try some grilled beef. Despite getting a glimpse of favela life, we were disappointed that we didn’t get to have more meaningful interactions with the locals and understand more about the vibrant community there.
We also had the fascinating experience of attending a Candomble ceremony, a blended African/Christian religious ceremony where participants dance in a circle in a hot room until their personal spirit enters their body and they fall into a trance.
In addition to our cultural experiences, we enjoyed one beautiful day hiking through the jungle to a deserted beach and one rainy day visiting Christ the Redeemer. We could not see a thing from the high mountain overlook, but we got a great ghostly photo!