I've noticed that the Brasilian people do not really engage you when you're walking along the streets. There is rarely eye contact or an "Olá". Perhaps it's because they recognize us as foreigners. We have met a couple other travelers along the way; an older couple from Germany who were travelling on the same ferry as us to Ilha do Mel. I got to practice my German a little. We also met a couple travelling with two young children. We chatted with them on the ferry back to Paranagúa and found out they were from Norway and have been in South America for the last eight months. They have been based out of Uruguay, learning Spanish, and have been backpacking around the neighbouring countries. We were quite impressed they would attempt such an extended trip with two small children; perhaps 5 and 6 years old. The kids seemed well adjusted to travelling. I was quite jealous with the amount of time they have been travelling and need to seriously think of ways on how to arrange such an extensive trip. What an awesome experience that would be. There is a trip around the world ticket available at a starting price of $3,500 with Star Alliance. Saving for that would be a good start.
The Brasilian women seem quite fashionable, especially when it comes to footwear. I don't think that I've ever seen so many women wear heels for just getting around town that I have here. And their ability to manage on the sidewalks is also quite amazing.
At times you literally take your life into your own hands when crossing the streets of Brasil. It's no wonder people don't saunter across streets. Drivers don't seem to stop for pedestrians unless forced to at a red light, but at least they'll usually honk to let you know they are approaching. Some of the intersections are so long too that you only make it half way before having to wait for the next light to get to the other side. Others have various directions of traffic coming into them, that you really have to look to make sure there are no cars coming your way.
The fourth flight on this adventure was from Curitiba to Foz do Iguazu on Gol airlines leaving from Curitiba airport. We arrived two hours early as a precaution as the last time we flew within Brasil the check-in line was rather long and slow. Well, we walked right up to the check-in desk without any line-ups and were quickly and efficiently checked-in. The ticket agent even joked in English with us asking whether is was freezing in Canada. Again, security was more for show than anything at this airport. Our flight was on time and was a short 50 minutes. We were provided with in flight service on this short flight that consisted of a snack and beverage. They serve a great cherry flavoured soft drink here called Guaraná Antarctica. It's really good and a must try. We were quite pleased with the level of service provided so far from the airlines down here. Definitely something that the North American airlines can take some lessons from.
Despite the language barrier, we have managed to always order great meals at restaurants. The food here is really good and fresh, especially the fruit. I can't get over how delicious the fruit is. My favourites are the papaya and watermelon. We also noticed that salads are served without all the dressings and sauces we are accustomed to back home. This probably helps explain when Brasilian people do not appear overweight.
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