Carnival craziness

After breakfast this morning, I walked down the hill to run a few errands. I wanted to organise Metro tickets to get to the Sambadrome this evening. I soon discovered that our nearest station is closed for the duration of the carnival. A drinks seller directed me to the next nearest, so I walked down there. On the way, I passed several interesting-looking delis and 'pay by weight' grocery stores - places to return to on another day. I was fascinated by the fact that the streets were full of people ready to party, despite the early hour. There were some amazing costumes and make-up. There were plenty of people wearing very little, too! Glitter and confetti were everywhere. Stalls were selling everything carnival-related. The atmosphere was happy and relaxed.

I found the Metro station and secured tickets for our journey later. On the way back to the supermarket, I bought several trays of ready-prepared fruit from a guy on the street. I chose watermelon, mangos, pineapple, and strawberries. He wasn't charging much. It was definitely worth it for the time saved on peeling and chopping! It did mean, though, that my backpack was already heavy before I even started the shopping I'd come for! I also gave in to temptation and bought a flower garland for Mark and a hairband for me to wear tonight. Well, when in Rome!

Once I had the other shopping we needed, I dragged my heavily-laden self back up the hill to Brian's place. I was extremely hot and knackered by the time I got there! I cooled off under the ceiling fan, and then we had delicious fresh fruit and Greek yoghurt for lunch.

I spent the afternoon writing posts and scheduling them for future dates. I also made a start on some Instagram stories for Brazil. Mark did some handwashing and prepared steak, potatoes, and salad for dinner. A new guest arrived this afternoon for the small single room at the front of the house. We said hello, but we have no common language, so conversation was a non-starter!

After dinner, we cleared away and watered Brian's plants as I'd promised him we would. He has gone to his house in the mountains for a few days to escape the Carnival madness.

We then got ready and left for the Sambadrome at just before 6pm.Lue lisää