• Day 164 - Arriving in Brasília

    October 13, 1974 in Brazil

    Today, we accomplished another long stretch of road.

    After 8 hours of driving, the road was suddenly paved, and we found ourselves on a slightly elevated plateau with cultivated fields on either side.

    The map showed we were only 7 miles from Brasilia, yet we saw no signs or indication that we were so close. Then the first slums appeared, and shortly after that, we saw many modern-looking 6-story apartment buildings.

    Brasilia was officially opened in 1960 as the new capital of Brazil (formerly Rio de Janeiro). It was purposely built in the middle of nowhere to attract more people and businesses to Brazils' interior. It was specifically designed and is surrounded by a large water reservoir. The layout of the city resembles the body of an airplane.

    We easily navigated to the city center, where all the Ministries are, and parked in front of the impressive Congress building. We will stay here for a few days to explore everything.

    We hooked up with Ute & Peter and went together to a supermarket for food shopping. For tonight, we are camping by the gas station at the airport.

    Miles 341, Expenses $19.45
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