After New Year’s celebrations and touristy sightseeing, it was time to live like a Brazilian. Rio natives, or Cariocas, have things pretty much figured out. Fresh açai smoothies for breakfast, lounging on the beach after a run, having a swim once it gets too warm, enjoying the impressive views in the background, and right in front of you as well. And to your right. And to your left. And behind you. Cariocas are anything but bashful when it comes to their bathing attire, and they definitely have no reason to be. Well…most of them at least!
Nights are filled with hearty meals, live music and Samba dancing that will make gringos like myself feel like I have 2 left feet. There is a constant sense of enjoyment and passion for life around Rio, no matter what neighborhood you explore. It’s enticing and overwhelming at the same time, and I dig it.
I was fortunate enough to have the chance to hang out with a good number of Cariocas during my time in Rio, with one group trip to a more private beach just outside the city. Besides having my fresh sunburn turn from pink to lobster red, the tropical beach setting with the locals made me feel like I’d had a true Carioca experience… Belesa!