Sunday, January 16, 2011

Summer during Winter

Almost a month ago now I returned from the trip of my lifetime, and I'm already dreaming of ways to go back. A short two days after my last final of the fall semester I left for the airport with my classmates, leaving an ever increasingly pregnant wife waving good-bye at our front door. Previous posts have stated that she had been in better shape, but my excitement masked any apprehensive feelings I may have had. My MBA crew traveled for the next 24 hours and finally found itself in Rio de Janiero, Brazil. One of the wildest cities I've ever visited. It was absolutely beautiful and at the same time, a little unnerving. Following four days of local business visits and beach lounging we boarded another flight and went to Buenos Aires. I was immediately in love. The weather was incredible, the people were nice (understanding them helped my comfort level), and the architecture was beautiful. Four more days of business visits, lots of empanadas and a tango lesson later, we traveled another 24 hours to come home for the long-awaited holiday break. Instead of reading boring details, I'll give the highlights in picture form.


We stayed on Copacabana beach in Rio, this was my view from the breakfast table each morning as I enjoyed my made to order omelet.


Just around the corner from our hotel was Ipanema beach. The waves there were the strongest I've ever been in. A few times I found myself in the turbine of a wave and had the opportunity to filter through some of the sand on the bottom with my teeth.


On our final day in Brazil we visited the Cristo Redentor statue. I was told that this is one of the modern 7 wonders of the world. In the first picture you can get a little better scale of just how big it is.

On our last night we enjoyed an incredible Rodizio dinner. This picture shows the style. All the waiters have lots of meat and big knives. Sodium overload ensues.


Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, we went on a city tour that included a drive down Avenida 9 de Julio, the widest street in the world, a drive through the french architecture, a stroll through the colorful buildings of La Boca and this, one of the oldest cemeteries in the city. This is also where Evita Peron is entombed along with many other Argentine leaders and wealthy members of society.

In the center of Avenida 9 de Julio, there is an enormous obelisk. You can see from this view just how wide the street actually is.
The evenings were free during the trip and we spent our time wandering around the city. On our way to an outdoor shopping area, I found this big church tucked away from the hustle and bustle. Note my surprise.


This air return helps show my exuberance for the city.

One of the nights in Buenos Aires we were given a tango lesson. I thought I was going to be the most awkward one on the floor, however, I came in fourth place most awkward. They handed out certificates at the end.

Following the lesson we had an amazing meal and incredible tango show. I also closely examined my classmate Bill's bald spot.

In all, it was an incredible trip. I have two new countries under my belt and the travel bug scratches me more than ever. I've promised Elizabeth that we will go back, hopefully with more time on our hands to be able to experience more of the sights to be seen.

1 comment:

  1. Have you guys finished the crib? I'm wanting to see pictures when you finish.

    ReplyDelete