From Sao Paulo to the Seaside (kinda!)

After Cusco we were hit with the big big city of Sao Paulo. After the culture shock we enjoyed some time and partying in Sao Paulo with Felipes (a work collegue of mine) brother in Law, called Beto and his gf Camilla. They looked after us brilliantly. We had full use of his appartement, 2 laptops and washing machine for 2 nights. While Beto worked we spent the day exploring Sao Paulo. We sat and had a picnic lunch in a very nice park - Parque do Ibirapuera. It had lots of ducks and a big lake! In the evening after work we were taken to an Irish bar on one night, where our non-glamorous and lack of high heels look stood out a little bit!!! Dam...we both knew we would forget something! On the other and our final night in Sao Paulo we sampled some traditional Brazilian food and went to the top of one of the highest skyscrapers in the city. Great night views of the city. Thank you Beto, Camilla and Felipe!

Following Sao Paulo we boarded a bus to Curitiba and arrived at what can only be described as a faulty towers hotel. The website was very deceptive! We decided to just spend one night there before before catching a train to Parangua. It is quoted as being one of the most scenic train rides in Brazil and they werent wrong about that. It was lovely with some amazing views along the way. And they also even handed out peanuts!!! Its ok though, I survived....we had all the windows open, we didnt pay extra for the air condition carriage!

On arrival in Parangua - the last bit by bus. We found ourselves by the seaside..well kinda. It smelt like the seaside and there was a small beach. Jo was very happy! We decided to book ourselves into a hostel and then make our way to Ihla do Mel (or honey island) tomorrow (that being Monday). Parangua is very quiet this time of year though, all the shops are shut (although this might be because its a Sunday?) and there doesnt appear to be many open restuarants....hopefully we will find some dinner!

Bye 4 now!
Charlie and Jo xx