To help the group enjoy the city more and learn more about it in the limited time available, we hired a tour company to supply us with a bus and a guide. We woke up to a sunny, warm day and greeted our energetic tour guide, Ana Maria, in the lobby at 9 am.
The first part of the tour took us to Corcovado, the famous mountain with the giant statue of Jesus at the top -- known worldwide as a benchmark site for Rio. We had to board a small shuttle tram to climb the steep mountain. At the top...the view of the city was breathtaking. Perfect weather, no crowds...we were a pretty giddy group! On the way down, we were entertained by a small samba musical group on the tram.
Ana Maria was clearly proud of her city, and it showed in her interesting and entertaining stories as we drove through the city. She next took us to a giant cathedral in the middle of town -- an amazing, modern, pyramid-like structure completely open to the outside. We then went to another "proper" churrascaria -- the Brazilian barbeque featuring an enormous salad bar, followed by meat served endlessly on skewers brought tableside. (Some people commented that they may not be able to eat meat for a week back home).
The tour bus then took us to another mind-boggling mountain experience -- Sugar Loaf. That is the highest peak in town, accessible only by the famous cable car ride (remember Agent 007's adventures on this in Moonraker?). The top peak provided an even more amazing view of the city and its beaches.
Ana Maria got some of the students excited by telling them that her friend ran a hang gliding service for a reasonable price. The trip starts on one of the mountain tops and ends on the beach. We went to see some of them landing. A few students, undaunted by the price, were insistent on doing it (parents..please don't hurt Dr. Byrd!). However, we found out back at the hotel that we would not be permitted to check out late -- we had to be out at noon, so that situation prevented any hang gliding.
After this exhiliarating day, the students spent the evening in the local neighborhood.
What a day...what a way to end the show!
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