Greetings from Brazil. Well I've only been here 4 days and already I have a world of experiences. I put together a small list of things so far that has been not easy to get used to but I think by the end of 6 weeks will be no problem.
1. Toilet tissue does not go in the toilet. That's right. After you wipe you throw your tissue in a trash can to the side because of the bad plumbing problems that can result with too much tissue. I'm just gonna leave this one for you guys. Surprisingly though I should note that the bathrooms, or at least my house, doesn't stink because meu Mai throws away the trash a lot.
2. There are NO driving regulations in Brazil. Taxis, bus drivers and regular drivers . You guys familiar with Grand Theft Auto? Well that is exactly how every drives out here. PEDESTRIANS do not have the right away! There is no such thing as J-Walking but if you do decide to J-Walk you are really DEATH walking because you are putting your life at risk. Of course I am being a little dramatic but still the road is something that will take a second to get used to.
3. The BOYS. If you make eye contact with boys here they will walk up to you and kiss you. It is there way of saying that you are pretty and asking for your number. Its not disrespectful at all just a little much. You can be in deep thought looking in the direction of a boy and he will walk right up to you and attempt to kiss you.
4. The World Cup is like a NATIONAL HOLIDAY! Literally! Yesterday Brazil had a game so school got canceled. Not only did school get canceled but stores are closed down, HUGE big screens are put up all over the city and the EVERYBODY celebrates. The only thing open are bars and clubs to celebrate! On Friday, the next time Brazil plays, classes are canceled and we are encouraged to take care of any shopping beforehand. ITS CRAZY! Every single person is a Brazil soccer fan. Its so weird to see a whole country dedicated to something. My friends luggage was late and he called to see if it was arriving and the lady said "No, Brazil plays today, sorry!"
Well that's all for now. I'm about to take a nap before I go Salsa/Samba (I say Samba because although it’s a Salsa club I plan to use all the Samba I learned during my Afro-Brazilian dance today) tonight. Tchua!
