Our Last Week In South America-For Now

This week we have been moving between different ports in Brazil. We have made 3 stops at ocean front communities along the North Coast.


Before I decibe the stops, I think I will tell you a little about our past travel experiences, and what we prefer to do in new areas. Before this cruise I have been to 22 different countries-Matt closer to 30. Most of the time we are together, but not always. Sometimes we head off to the tourist stops to see the sights (Effiel Tower, Ann Frank home,Vatican), but our favorite acivity is renting a car and getting out of town. Eating with the locals, learning about life thier way.
We have seen some beautiful contrysides (New Zealand), and stayed in places where the indoor plumbing was only for show (Mexico). Everywhere we have been has been a treat, educational, and memorible.
We had expected the same experiences in Brazil. We took 1 tour offered through the boat, but the rest of our time would be meeting locals, and learning about town. Our stops were in Belem, Fortaleza, and Recife, Brazil. From the minute we got off the boat-we knew this was going to be different.
We were warned by the local tour guide that town was not safe. Do not bring cameras, purses, or jewlery. So I don’t have many pictures (just a few with my phone). I had taken my phone out of my pocket to take a picture-and a local transit bus stopped in the middle of the road, opened the door, and the driver yelled at me to put my phone away! “Not safe” he yelled. Garbage was thrown everywhere, huge voltures were everywhere eating the garbage. People would follow us pushing us to hire them for a tour. In all 3 stops Military Police followed us around-for our safety!
*A little bit more about me. I do not believe in coincidences, instead I believe God has me in each situation for a reason. My job is to figure out WHY. So far what I can come with: I’m to be grateful for what I have.*
I don’t think I would recommend a trip to Brazil, but I do see the value in this experience.
What’s next? 5 sea days then AFRICA!!!!!