Day 171 - Belo Horizonte

(Ursula) On our way south, we made a little detour and visited Gruta de Maquiné. A cave that was worthwhile seeing.

The cave was huge, with several tall chambers filled with Stalagmites growing from the bottom and ceiling. One section had unique hollows in the ground all over. It was hot and humid inside, with a well-lit walkway and handrails. Although it was Saturday, there were not too many people besides us.

By late afternoon, we reached the city of Belo Horizonte in Minas Gerais. Since the idea wasn't his, Heinz was reluctant to drive to Pampulha, a suburb only a short distance away. But he did change his mind after all.

I wanted to see the unique church designed by Oscar Niemeyer. I liked the design and the outside appearance of it, but I wasn't much impressed by the finished concrete (also observed in Brasilia) and the tasteless interior - it was horrible. But maybe this detour would become a game-changer for Wally.

Across the lake from the church, we could see a large soccer stadium. On the other side of the church was a hillside with beautiful estates; maybe that's where the rich people of Belo Horizonte lived.

We pretended to be one of them tonight and set up the camper on the lake shore with a beautiful view!

Stats: Miles 240, Expenses $2.70Read more