tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57178745851060097412024-03-18T07:59:45.378-07:00Brazil for Insidersby journalists Antonella Kann and Alexandra ForbesAlexandra Forbeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16277136673835698236noreply@blogger.comBlogger298125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-44171025974701332612013-03-02T13:03:00.003-08:002013-03-02T13:04:48.312-08:00The Cavalhadas of Pirenópolis<!-- AddThis Button BEGIN -->
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<i><b>by Antonella Kann</b></i><br />
No, it´s not a horse which has to be protected from the sun or anything...A hooded horse is not, I agree, a very common site, but I will explain asap what´s this all about. Well, this animal is just doing his part in an extremely popular event, called the Cavalhadas, which takes place every year since the 17th century in a small colonial town of the state of Goiás, Pirenópolis. </div>
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Count 40 days after Easter and you´ll see hundreds of horsemen riding across this small town, many of them wearing masks and hoods as well as disguising their horses with funny-looking costumes. These guys are known as the Mascarados ( Mascarades) and their presence are never discreet. They shout, laugh and tease people, but they are part of this traditional popular festivity which lasts 3 whole days. </div>
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If you have a spare time and happen to be in Brasilia, capital, don´t hesitate to rent a car and drive 140 kilometers to Pirenópolis, where besides watching this spectacular event, along with locals ( this is NOT Carnival and not the least a mass tourism attraction, as it´s not well known even among the Brazilians) and enjoy the atmosphere of this charming place. You´ll find very good pousadas as well as fantastic food, both regional as international. Also, the people of Goiás are (truly) reputed to be extremely hospitable- their doors are supposed to remain open all the time, to welcome visitors. <br />
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<!-- AddThis Button END -->antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-27284781299463927132012-03-16T13:29:00.011-07:002012-03-16T14:27:05.509-07:00Under the spell of Boipeba´s charms<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDDiic8N86_5uwUk4OHilH-PRzks508hU97gOg6UStnWTMEIVrKpAE0q4osnQH4lx1szPjCPfY0kiVwqD_Wnm6HUWufbSzvWOXFcPlAY1hqTnzvVmnMPd_CEmN_3wbx2YCNSQfkCfdTws/s1600/aeroporto-de-boipeba.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 214px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720603343330727554" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDDiic8N86_5uwUk4OHilH-PRzks508hU97gOg6UStnWTMEIVrKpAE0q4osnQH4lx1szPjCPfY0kiVwqD_Wnm6HUWufbSzvWOXFcPlAY1hqTnzvVmnMPd_CEmN_3wbx2YCNSQfkCfdTws/s320/aeroporto-de-boipeba.jpg" /></a><strong><em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidun2UNO9xJ1XDoEiX1ozNCaVFe6nOBBbdBQ-U1v95n-S-4X9MLNXApbauqWL-xvqpQc_prvcup5YWbD9cOrhJcT-MCAXyfShc0h1VmNCcMj-jXcvYIvp-1y7uVPqJBDjszgjvDml8QQ8/s1600/piscinas-naturais-%25282%2529.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 213px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720600858233971538" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidun2UNO9xJ1XDoEiX1ozNCaVFe6nOBBbdBQ-U1v95n-S-4X9MLNXApbauqWL-xvqpQc_prvcup5YWbD9cOrhJcT-MCAXyfShc0h1VmNCcMj-jXcvYIvp-1y7uVPqJBDjszgjvDml8QQ8/s320/piscinas-naturais-%25282%2529.jpg" /></a></div><p>Long time no see, you´ll say. And you´re right. I´ve been deep in travels, but very bad in posting something new since...well, you tell me. But during these trips I´ve visited places that you ought to go, either for a long vacation or short stay. One of those is Boipeba, very off the beaten track. It´s Bahia old-style in its true essence. You can fly from Salvador on a small plane from a tiny company called Addey ( <a href="mailto:reservas@addey.com.br">reservas@addey.com.br</a> ) which drops you off on that charming "airport" which you see on the first picture...<br /></p><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFAT6eOLqLYLr-LqcpBXA-ka9IkgkFKiHpwGMUcV_QenNDmIM3Fq670CPUhzyE4SrpbOYcsns9JA5QcZ1Ndy3rohINXAaMwusqi0tL4YbAIbbvW-3KzKP87QlG0nsXGTD2i3KbxvEyk60/s1600/IMG_6464.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 213px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720600785043129874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFAT6eOLqLYLr-LqcpBXA-ka9IkgkFKiHpwGMUcV_QenNDmIM3Fq670CPUhzyE4SrpbOYcsns9JA5QcZ1Ndy3rohINXAaMwusqi0tL4YbAIbbvW-3KzKP87QlG0nsXGTD2i3KbxvEyk60/s320/IMG_6464.JPG" /></a>You then take a small canoe and jump off on a beach in central Boipeba. No cars, no motorized vehicles. The pousadas send a porter with a yellow wheelbarrow which will lift your luggage to your final destination. Best place to go is the Pousada Mangabeiras (<a href="http://www.pousadamangabeiras.com.br">www.pousadamangabeiras.com.br</a>) , fabulous location on the top of a hill with eye-filling views. Check it out from the picture above. All of the rooms from cozy bungalows have this privilege. Note that you have to climb over 70 steps to reach your kingsize bed...<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnzNcmYkYfwnxOTPS59Wln3ilJSpOwctbaU1MGr9hV_F-iOS9Jyy6JMPKe9ZxEdOL3zBlfBPUQD9NiPKI0VXnnnXhW_Xz_60Q3LZmPW9pyyctIITzZQHetcWxaB5R9Q_2JwNpW-fATxzM/s1600/Cova-da-On%25C3%25A7a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 213px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720600705208361330" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnzNcmYkYfwnxOTPS59Wln3ilJSpOwctbaU1MGr9hV_F-iOS9Jyy6JMPKe9ZxEdOL3zBlfBPUQD9NiPKI0VXnnnXhW_Xz_60Q3LZmPW9pyyctIITzZQHetcWxaB5R9Q_2JwNpW-fATxzM/s320/Cova-da-On%25C3%25A7a.jpg" /></a>Sunshine, a good book and your favorite companion with you - this is basically the recipe if you want a perfect place. But if you are not the sort of person who slips from the room straight into a lounge chair by the pool, then try walking miles and miles around the island ( yes, you´ve guessed, Boipeba is an island) and discover unspoilt beaches, calm and pristine waters and, at low tide, natural pools.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE37S4_qodX7yRM0KGflVBPFKxBKXG9KtdWWWJncioag5ACo_jfiQ4PFz8ULbpuQA_3bKkxk5aEqxNUnYn-vYq62Uo2i9VFUb_F-QUYDKBM9lLPpzzC5JzEUefQHT8oghoLaW5kkUNaSc/s1600/IMG_6470.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 213px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720599764170502546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE37S4_qodX7yRM0KGflVBPFKxBKXG9KtdWWWJncioag5ACo_jfiQ4PFz8ULbpuQA_3bKkxk5aEqxNUnYn-vYq62Uo2i9VFUb_F-QUYDKBM9lLPpzzC5JzEUefQHT8oghoLaW5kkUNaSc/s320/IMG_6470.JPG" /></a>Being miles from anywhere of consequences, framed by a picturesque landscape, Boipeba harbors the atmosphere of old-style Bahia. Relaxed, and affordable -chic. Try to go off-season and do not stay less than 3 nights. Ah, indulge in a fantastic massage with the therapist recommended in Pousada Mangabeiras´front desk. I did forget her name, but I remember that she is a very sweet American lady and you will be in heaven for an hour - I promise!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi213UUL4E-LTqBZrTF7JFNiaqGhOQs_dYJVfW147F1IhLDONAGt2fA2o7629dD9kScwxEU_gcte1zZIriawAHq7zVGl8IFZAk0geFoI643b07tyy7t9YvRlJrsA8Cm-CbK5tF0WZgnfVM/s1600/IMG_6481.JPG"></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJFeVDuiSbMroWYWKGQouC4aVVc2iSTgmSyV6z9awRocaWOOl0aJk4c_1cXnLxwehbZ4ymnyptZGLPsjKe7sto3G07jHHj7xeKf9WBq58FCsFrAx7jL8U7Cw-D5fuh9TjqXTEd1oAFz4E/s1600/cenario-da-velha-Boipeba.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 213px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720595505184698018" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJFeVDuiSbMroWYWKGQouC4aVVc2iSTgmSyV6z9awRocaWOOl0aJk4c_1cXnLxwehbZ4ymnyptZGLPsjKe7sto3G07jHHj7xeKf9WBq58FCsFrAx7jL8U7Cw-D5fuh9TjqXTEd1oAFz4E/s320/cenario-da-velha-Boipeba.JPG" /></a>Late afternoon, sunset time, go for a walk around the village, all sand alleys, fishermen´s atrium, some tourists - lots of backpackers heading for smaller pousadas which used to be locals´home.</div><div>Although Boipeba is googleable by now, it still is that divine laidback sort of place. </div><div><br /> </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8-iL5nHPu4vBOAe-2eE0_6_SXqwHmAiQH89OD0Yk4QsRGSUkqVwGKAfoDBmCIBml3kj6kyAivF78QpdPaGEgB6tCkrMXyzw0FuaAxmqo8t9Bp8fixV4U49-JwyuUf27HrzzTMCWDC0As/s1600/IMG_6470.JPG"></a><br /><div><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --><div><script type="text/javascript">var addthis_pub="aleforbes";</script><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" onmouseout="addthis_close()" onclick="return addthis_sendto()" name="data:post.title"><img style="border: 0pt currentColor;" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" /></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js"></script></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div></div></div></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-40458571861756954752012-02-02T15:38:00.000-08:002012-02-02T15:38:17.467-08:00São Paulo hotels and restaurants for high-rollers: top addresses<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghJ9PRs4bAqRDMoLxc38mqjLOSRfmoTuZuPU910QnV0jQXtkVMeufyTWRdjRgDpM7CblQeRyEnoYJ6-2-b50fUQSVO_YzHdKA3blNAkILb3WqIZD-B-6tIVynctQSKncWitrou2RMwjOyw/s1600/sao_paulo_skyline_torre_450-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghJ9PRs4bAqRDMoLxc38mqjLOSRfmoTuZuPU910QnV0jQXtkVMeufyTWRdjRgDpM7CblQeRyEnoYJ6-2-b50fUQSVO_YzHdKA3blNAkILb3WqIZD-B-6tIVynctQSKncWitrou2RMwjOyw/s1600/sao_paulo_skyline_torre_450-1.jpg" /></a></div><script type="text/javascript">
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Although the bustling city of 19 million has long reigned as Brazil’s gastronomic and shopping meca, for years its restaurants remained an insider’s secret, as tourists preferred the sunnier and more laid-back cities to the North, such as Rio or Salvador. No more: the recent economic boom has drawn attention to the increasingly opulent metropolis boasting world-class restaurants, shops and hotels.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">D.O.M. restaurant</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>RESTAURANTS</b></span><br />
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For seasoned foodies, no visit to São Paulo is complete without a visit to Maní (<a href="http://www.manimanioca.com.br/">www.manimanioca.com.br</a>) and D.O.M. (<a href="http://www.domrestaurante.com.br/">www.domrestaurante.com.br</a>), restaurants which, in very novel ways, give little-known Brazilian ingredients a new guise.<br />
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Just as importantly, paulistanos (as São Paulo natives are referred to) saw their long-lived infatuation with sushi take flight: today, there are an eye-popping 600 Japanese restaurants in town. At the city’s premium Japanese restaurants, dish presentation and raw fish quality rival the best in Japan. Competing for the title of best sushiman in São Paulo are <b>Jun Sakamoto</b> (no website, tel. 55-11-3088-6019) – cerebral, temperamental, traditionalist, owner of the celebrated eponymous restaurant – and Tsuyoshi Murakami, a born showman whose wildly creative and artfully presented tasting menus served at <b>Kinoshita</b> (<a href="http://www.kinoshita.com.br/">www.kinoshita.com.br</a>) dazzle locals and tourists alike.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fasano restaurant</td></tr>
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HOTELS</span></b><br />
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A great luxury hotel is one thing, but one where there are almost always well-known figures of the local business and arts crowds milling around the lobby at happy hour, drink in hand? Only at the <b>Fasano</b> (<a href="http://www.fasano.com.br/">www.fasano.com.br</a>) , to be sure, the most glamorous of the city’s growing number of five stars. It also holds the title of hotel with the best piano bar (where even big stars like Caetano Veloso have sung) and the poshest Italian restaurant in town (also called Fasano). <br />
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Worthiest competitors include the design-driven <b>Emiliano</b> (<a href="http://www.emiliano.com.br/">www.emiliano.com.br</a>), a mere four blocks away – with rooftop pool, spa and helipad – and the <b>Grand Hyatt</b> (<a href="http://saopaulo.grand.hyatt.com/">http://saopaulo.grand.hyatt.com</a>) , favoured by the business crowd, located in the modern, office-tower-heavy Berrini district. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shopping Cidade Jardim</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BOUTIQUES - SHOPPING</b></span><br />
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It’s amazing how many new shopping centers pop up each year in the city, such as the Vila Olímpia, opened in 2010. The granddaddy of them all, the <b>Shopping Iguatemi </b>(<a href="http://www.iguatemisaopaulo.com.br/">www.iguatemisaopaulo.com.br</a>), is going as strong as ever: it houses the Tiffany flagship and many of Brazil’s most desireable brands, like Carlos Miele and Cris Barros.<br />
But no mall comes close to matching the new <b>Cidade Jardim</b> in sheer refinement and beauty. Its open-air, tastefully-landscaped esplanades are home to some of the world’s chicest brands, including the biggest Louis Vuitton and first Hermès stores in Latin America. Petrossian opened its first boutique there a few months ago. London-based Issa and the American Tory Burch are next. <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript">
</script></div>Alexandra Forbeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16277136673835698236noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-54248646144262759822012-01-26T08:45:00.000-08:002012-01-26T08:45:38.711-08:00Speto's grafitti art: from São Paulo to Miami's Primary Flight<div><script type="text/javascript">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8LL9VIiHfgTK6WK7dpwCOwpObpUiZ3F6Gab6KvAXmE3caG9eFs31MVfI3nqFf2Sf9pOp-tCZELPS7oM078_cUMS66XLdUjOkbLW4kLAdbs4fk8_blCyeCLANTbFfdH5_aK_jVntxXxgQ/s1600/sao_paulo_speto_grafitti.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8LL9VIiHfgTK6WK7dpwCOwpObpUiZ3F6Gab6KvAXmE3caG9eFs31MVfI3nqFf2Sf9pOp-tCZELPS7oM078_cUMS66XLdUjOkbLW4kLAdbs4fk8_blCyeCLANTbFfdH5_aK_jVntxXxgQ/s1600/sao_paulo_speto_grafitti.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I've been a longtime fan of many of São Paulo's great grafitti artists, of which <a href="http://www.speto.com.br/"><b>Speto</b></a> is my favourite. <br />
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After years of not seeing him, we ran into each other at Cavalera's fashion show, which was held at the Estação da Luz, a gorgeous old train station in São Paulo's Centro (Old Downtown). <br />
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That was enough excuse for me to write up a little post on him, so I could share some of his favourite work with you (photos below were taken from Speto's Flickr feed).<br />
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</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At the last Art Basel Miami, Speto's gallerist Baixo Ribeiro, who owns <a href="http://choquecultural.com.br/">Choque Cultural</a> gallery, accompanied him as Speto worked on his first work for <a href="http://primaryflight.com/" target="_blank">Primary Flight</a> - an open-air museum. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The work, pictured below, will be on show until the next editon of the art fair, in December.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_952363647">Photo: Moro no Rio</a><a href="http://moronorio.tumblr.com/"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com//photos/speto/show/"><b>Here's the link to Speto's Flickr photo album, with more of his work</b></a></div><a href="" id="data:post.url" name="data:post.title"></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript">
</script></div>Alexandra Forbeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16277136673835698236noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-31372069026986262172012-01-03T04:09:00.000-08:002012-01-03T04:09:34.296-08:00Brazil: its history, summarized, and a few of its architectural highlights<div><script type="text/javascript">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu0cz4G3XWmmyq1sVZDkTOST58hLOkwDb_N26F-EFdAgAcel7U28MYk_-dB8wLWQbbZuG1Vv-Uc7mAebfE4blrokkFbRyd2TYRMQUoWpMUIn_DFSZqqhNMhFeChmAtnqQpaCJ1wstqO2UI/s1600/recife_vista.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu0cz4G3XWmmyq1sVZDkTOST58hLOkwDb_N26F-EFdAgAcel7U28MYk_-dB8wLWQbbZuG1Vv-Uc7mAebfE4blrokkFbRyd2TYRMQUoWpMUIn_DFSZqqhNMhFeChmAtnqQpaCJ1wstqO2UI/s400/recife_vista.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recife, in Northeastern Brazil</td></tr>
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<i><b>by Alexandra Forbes</b></i><br />
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The Portuguese admiral Pedro Álvares Cabral discovered Brazil by accident in 1500. His fleet had set out in search of Indian spices, but favorable winds pushed them towards an exuberant and unknown land. They dropped anchor in the palm-lined bay of Porto Seguro, in what is today the southern part of the state of Bahia. There are still signs of their arrival: the first whitewashed churches in Porto Seguro and in the neighboring Arraial d’Ajuda attract curious tourists to this day.<br />
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The Portuguese organized their new territory into two captaincies (the administrative order of the time) – Pernambuco, north of Bahia, and São Vicente, in what is now the state of São Paulo – and they flourished. Pernambuco in particular grew and prospered thanks to the sugar trade, and soon the colony’s <em>de facto</em> capital was Olinda – Pernambuco’s main city, perched on a hill for protection. Its highest point is home to the São Salvador do Mundo church, better known as Alto da Sé. Built in 1537 as a testament to the wealth of the sugar magnates, this ornate church was adorned with an intricate design of gold leaf and painted tiles. Even today, the church and its surroundings are the nucleus of Olinda’s tourist hub.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recife's Capela Dourada</td></tr>
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The nearby village of Recife boasted deeper waters and a better port, so it soon surpassed Olinda as Brazil’s most prominent city. As Recife’s prosperity grew, the local churches became more luxurious. The Capela Dourada (Golden Chapel) was opened to the public in 1697, taking its name from the tremendous quantity of gold that covers its complex wooden engravings. The chapel is part of the Santo Antônio convent and remains one of the city’s most glorious legacies from this period.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqnj6mAVr6MEqWd_7I55evH8wEiAGf_EJolDHEXes5yGbbAMkMgCQNollVhQM_feNOudwbgdHPt3r_qx2SqqFvjWG7srrxOYrSxg7KPFV4BDOYp6y1RADZXlmMwXYfjGcjW28X6s1q0BJ/s1600/salvador_elevador_lacerda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqnj6mAVr6MEqWd_7I55evH8wEiAGf_EJolDHEXes5yGbbAMkMgCQNollVhQM_feNOudwbgdHPt3r_qx2SqqFvjWG7srrxOYrSxg7KPFV4BDOYp6y1RADZXlmMwXYfjGcjW28X6s1q0BJ/s1600/salvador_elevador_lacerda.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salvador's Elevador Lacerda</td></tr>
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But back to Bahia, where a Portuguese king eventually declared the region’s principal city, Salvador, to be capital of the colony. Salvador da Bahia flourished as a result, becoming the most important city in Brazil. Many of its buildings and churches date back to the 17th century and are concentrated in the historic Cidade Alta and Cidade Baixa, the two levels of the city that since 1872 have been connected by the famous Lacerda Elevator.<br />
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After Brazil had been established as a major exporter of sugar, and later coffee and gold, the Portuguese colonists began to expand through the rest of the country. Much of the country’s architectural riches from these days can be found in cities like Paraty and Rio de Janeiro, as well as in the mountain cities of Ouro Preto, Tiradentes and Mariana, heart of the gold rush.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjByWkQ0Tuy00HolEKeOJo4BFZ4-BDXvqp1sQvVl6tnv1Uf7boQU9zzh33d_BaUyoVlV0nA7OEcLD5A-OxsbnBV79K91Gf5MLhfJ5pQWVdSbr2sVJxU3puUs8m9PF3ZRfpHCRDA_lL_Snla/s1600/parati_brasil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjByWkQ0Tuy00HolEKeOJo4BFZ4-BDXvqp1sQvVl6tnv1Uf7boQU9zzh33d_BaUyoVlV0nA7OEcLD5A-OxsbnBV79K91Gf5MLhfJ5pQWVdSbr2sVJxU3puUs8m9PF3ZRfpHCRDA_lL_Snla/s400/parati_brasil.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paraty, near Rio</td></tr>
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Strangely, São Paulo, the undisputed financial and cultural capital of the country, has its origins in poverty and neglect. Wealthy industrialists didn’t build large mansions on Avenida Paulista until the early 20th century. Only a few of these palaces have survived, but the avenue remains a symbol of the city’s economic dominance. The most iconic structure is the Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP). A large box of glass and cement, held aloft by red pillars, this building was designed by renowned architect Lina Bo Bardi and is an essential stop for any tourist.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MASP Museum in São Paulo</td></tr>
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Around the time when the MASP was constructed, in the 1950s and 60s, São Paulo also enjoyed an architectural boom thanks to the work of architect Oscar Niemeyer. Known primarily for Brasilia, the current capital of the country, Niemeyer’s buildings in São Paulo are just as extraordinary and, most importantly, are easily accessible to most travelers. They include the spectacular Auditório Ibirapuera, the OCA exhibition center and the Museu de Arte Moderna (MAM), which are all located in Ibirapuera Park, as well as the city’s architectural landmark, the COPAN, in the city’s downtown.<br />
It’s ironic that São Paulo, once known as a gray and industrial city, now possesses some of Brazil’s greatest architectural gems.<br />
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In fact, the country’s 500 years of history are most evident the largest cities, like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Each chapter, from the sugar and coffee eras to the discovery of gold, from independence to industrialization and now globalization, has left indelible marks on the urban tapestry. Each new wave of visitors – the Portuguese, African slaves and immigrants from Europe and Japan – has led to new neighborhoods and new architectural styles. The Portuguese may have imposed their tastes and customs over the first two centuries, but today the sheer variety of Brazil’s cities reveals the diversity of its people. In<br />
<h3><strong>Olinda</strong></h3><address><strong><br />
Iglesia de São Salvador do Mundo</strong></address><address>Alto da Sé</address><address><a href="http://www.embratur.gov.br/"><strong>www.embratur.gov.br</strong></a><strong> </strong></address><h3><strong>São Paulo</strong><strong> </strong></h3><address><strong> Museu de Arte de São Paulo, Masp</strong></address><address>Av. Paulista 1578</address><address>Admission: US$8.50</address><address><strong><a href="http://in-lan.com/2010/05/bicentennial/www.masp.art.br">www.masp.art.br</a></strong></address><address><strong><br />
</strong></address><address><strong>Auditório Ibirapuera</strong></address><address>Av. Pedro Álvares Cabral, (no address number) – Portão 2</address><address>Tel. 55-11-3629-1075</address><address><strong><a href="http://in-lan.com/2010/05/bicentennial/www.auditorioibirapuera.com.br">www.auditorioibirapuera.com.br</a></strong></address><address><strong><br />
</strong></address><address><strong>Oca</strong></address><address>Parque do Ibirapuera, portão 1 y 2 – (no address number)</address><strong>MAM</strong><br />
<address>Parque do Ibirapuera, portão 3 – (no address number)</address><address>Admission: US$3.50</address><address><strong><a href="http://in-lan.com/2010/05/bicentennial/www.mam.org.br">www.mam.org.br</a></strong></address><address><strong><br />
</strong></address><address><strong>COPAN</strong></address><address>Av. Ipiranga 200, downtown</address><address><a href="http://www.copansp.com.br/"><strong>www.copansp.com.br</strong></a><strong> </strong></address><h3><strong>Recife</strong></h3><address><strong> Capela Dourada</strong></address><address>Rua Imperador Dom Pedro II, 206</address><address><strong><a href="http://in-lan.com/2010/05/bicentennial/www.embratur.gov.br">www.embratur.gov.br</a></strong></address><strong>Salvador da Bahia</strong><br />
<address><strong><a href="http://in-lan.com/2010/05/bicentennial/www.bahia.com.br/motix/pt_br" target="_blank">www.bahia.com.br/motix/pt_br</a></strong></address><a href="" id="data:post.url" name="data:post.title"></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript">
</script></div>Alexandra Forbeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16277136673835698236noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-42130923786584077882011-09-18T18:51:00.001-07:002011-09-18T19:12:54.622-07:00Whale watching in Praia do Rosa<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_IIQhyphenhyphenoqjgDMb7B0_U3xkb7Bw6AmnNnyy03vRlgohKAfTNlcNJP2SBiIDuBfjEcfGt5k2VOh7Qkpw0cgcMTe5X1ZuQEgbgpP6HDP2XaUbB6xsI7MMu_otaKSi8V_DALVJWrGGlLmUas0/s1600/cauda-da-baleia-4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653882678102103378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_IIQhyphenhyphenoqjgDMb7B0_U3xkb7Bw6AmnNnyy03vRlgohKAfTNlcNJP2SBiIDuBfjEcfGt5k2VOh7Qkpw0cgcMTe5X1ZuQEgbgpP6HDP2XaUbB6xsI7MMu_otaKSi8V_DALVJWrGGlLmUas0/s400/cauda-da-baleia-4.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><em><strong>by Antonella Kann</strong></em><br /><strong><em></em></strong><br />Ok, I know, no excuse for me. I won´t spend time explaining why I haven´t posted anything for the last month. So, let me just introduce you to this wonderful place, called Praia do Rosa, in the southern state of Santa Catarina. It´s about 70 kilometers south from capital Florianópolis, but it can - and it will! - take you at least two hours by car to get there, because traffic congestion is a fact. Try getting there in midmorning instead of late afternoon, as you´ll have to cross city center and it means huge delays. But even these caveats are no reason to avoid visiting this gorgeous region where whale watching is a must during the months of july through october.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz6joLdl7cLjyFNTWKeFstjn93hmt_yIZXDajMsmn49DVC5r95tzKtCGiHVkHLbYDyvfn1yGtqLil3ZopgeC-CAcBvkGUnbvAFCNu8Brt-vpHiczQn3IcVetdOAdzXxsCHvAjskvi-Edg/s1600/cauda-da-baleia.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653882618356279426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz6joLdl7cLjyFNTWKeFstjn93hmt_yIZXDajMsmn49DVC5r95tzKtCGiHVkHLbYDyvfn1yGtqLil3ZopgeC-CAcBvkGUnbvAFCNu8Brt-vpHiczQn3IcVetdOAdzXxsCHvAjskvi-Edg/s400/cauda-da-baleia.jpg" border="0" /></a> Everyone who has seen whales know that catching a glimpse of its tail is somewhat difficult. But in Praia do Rosa all the way to Garopaba - 15 kilometers away - and around, you can view as much as 5 of these enormous mammals in just a couple of minutes, depending where you stand. You might be on the beach and observe them playing, caring for their pup and take a lot of pictures such as those here. Or you can also board a 1,5 hr guided tour in Garopaba( <a href="http://www.vidasolemar.com.br/">www.vidasolemar.com.br</a>) and get so close that you could actually touch them - as they approach fearlessly and harmlessly. <br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjixW1iuG8qjR-iYs5gXBQbL_S3YuuTEyZ3DRc1KFnHF7Z9rJiEHqnkBAqcrNNLqn4sbWczNYDF7j1MKyZFMsMjS0gqNqWrQ-_zbuF6RDbLUFaH_A6zM1lQGsTTprgerNiKOEq_voZAZ6c/s1600/cabe%25C3%25A7a-de-baleia-franca.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653882552238367298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjixW1iuG8qjR-iYs5gXBQbL_S3YuuTEyZ3DRc1KFnHF7Z9rJiEHqnkBAqcrNNLqn4sbWczNYDF7j1MKyZFMsMjS0gqNqWrQ-_zbuF6RDbLUFaH_A6zM1lQGsTTprgerNiKOEq_voZAZ6c/s400/cabe%25C3%25A7a-de-baleia-franca.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />We spent a lovely weekend in a charming pousada called Solar Mirador(<a href="http://www.solarmirador.com.br/">www.solarmirador.com.br</a>) from which we had an incredible view of the Praia do Rosa in its whole extension. You are also steps away from the beach ( surf, STP and good hiking around) and the setting is amazing, the service very kind and professional and we were extremely lucky with the weather. Two sunny days on a row after a week of rain. And if you´re around, don´t miss the whales, which are called <em>francas</em>, and I promise it´s one experience of a lifetime and you´ll be thrilled!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-23287976687278360782011-08-15T11:53:00.001-07:002011-08-17T15:44:06.687-07:00Gastronomic festival in Tiradentes<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8OO9CyVimwJ3YVceAqLTQzek6tDCG6gO92otBvRfl2UrR7t4A-Ze5E-JkPEVXs7x9ztVrCenA5-auB869mVm-4zVeCcG8mGvMBC4LXfN7X88drY65pmtE1dGstDrXUoYynq8vhZHksu4/s1600/igreja-da-Matriz.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641158205699157810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8OO9CyVimwJ3YVceAqLTQzek6tDCG6gO92otBvRfl2UrR7t4A-Ze5E-JkPEVXs7x9ztVrCenA5-auB869mVm-4zVeCcG8mGvMBC4LXfN7X88drY65pmtE1dGstDrXUoYynq8vhZHksu4/s400/igreja-da-Matriz.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong> <em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong>
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<br />Just a quick reminder, because maybe you´ve just heard some rumors about the gastronomic festival which will be held in Tiradentes, the charming colonial town located 333 kilometers from Rio de Janeiro. Dates? It´s starts on Friday 19th and finishes on the 28th of August. Your best bet is to check their site <a href="http://www.culturaegastronomia.com.br/">http://www.culturaegastronomia.com.br/</a> or through the phone 31-30291686 .
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGzIRGMgH3SLeyhEnHoXRPOwNKMf50CCDdqsPdTcoXpfUR-NzP-YAfrgeLi0mIBxH1vXkQxwoNVIK1WuXKSCGj5MHYtXKc5GtCEh4TZuy3WCHejh2_CwB14FTkWNygmREEfKy-9GWTyPg/s1600/comida-mineira-_2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641158128676368466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGzIRGMgH3SLeyhEnHoXRPOwNKMf50CCDdqsPdTcoXpfUR-NzP-YAfrgeLi0mIBxH1vXkQxwoNVIK1WuXKSCGj5MHYtXKc5GtCEh4TZuy3WCHejh2_CwB14FTkWNygmREEfKy-9GWTyPg/s400/comida-mineira-_2.jpg" border="0" /></a> The Gourmet Fest is only one of the events which take place in Tiradentes, but it´s certainly one of the busiest time of the year. People come from all places and the hotels are probably booked long in advance. But don´t loose hope: try to find accommodation somewhere in the vicinity. My suggestion would be a place called Hotel Fazenda Rochedo ( tel.55 32 3354 2439 or check their site <a href="http://www.hotelfazendarochedo.com.br/">www.hotelfazendarochedo.com.br</a>. This cozy hotel is located some 30 km from Tiradentes. While away from the buzzling festival, you can go horseriding and hiking. Best of all, sleep amidst a beautiful landscape. On the other hand, you can spend the day in Tiradentes and enjoy several workshops and demos which are presented in spaces open to the public.
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<br />Reputed chefs, such as Paco Roncero and Alex Atala are going to be present at the Fest and will host special dinners. I am not sure if you are still on time to get tickets for these <em>festims</em>, as they are called, but nevertheless try through the phone 55 31 30291686. Or check the festival´s site <a href="http://www.culturaegastronomia.com.br/">www.culturaegastronomia.com.br</a> These culinary treats do not come cheap, but it´s a once in a lifetime experience.
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<br />antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-14323027098408624502011-08-10T15:47:00.000-07:002011-08-10T16:53:08.032-07:00Barra de São Miguel, a place to be revisited<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB2hPSBSRQFju_HgHbi9zgn9Yj0-VNfH_H_UB9VieeIUqzbUNiYGlN4yzZzyK5qGHqmH_ZofIqHXajwUvhj6cOLJ7dkIzzmO7_xFrvVJAclQ-Utv0A28RLlYNWWbFJrGeBOfLv8eCk830/s1600/www.kenoaresort.com-by-rogerio-maranhao---new--%25281%2529.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639363733039775522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB2hPSBSRQFju_HgHbi9zgn9Yj0-VNfH_H_UB9VieeIUqzbUNiYGlN4yzZzyK5qGHqmH_ZofIqHXajwUvhj6cOLJ7dkIzzmO7_xFrvVJAclQ-Utv0A28RLlYNWWbFJrGeBOfLv8eCk830/s400/www.kenoaresort.com-by-rogerio-maranhao---new--%25281%2529.jpg" border="0" /></a>
<br /><strong><em>by Antonella Kann/photos by Rogério Maranhão</em></strong>
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<br />Can you see that picture above? Well, that´s where I will head to in October. Okay, I understand if you feel a bit envious. Off the beaten track it is - a marvellous beach called Barra de São Miguel, 30 kms from Alagoas´ state capital, Maceió. I remember going there...hummm...20 years ago, to spend New Year´s Eve. Our family and some friends had rented a house for 10 days and spent a memorable vacation. There was nothing besides a few villas lined along the deserted beach and the weather was perfect. So, that´s the place filled with memories where I want to go back. Now, in style, as a host of this eco-chic design resort called Kenoa, a new kid (just off) the block, which opened less than 2 years ago.
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrHO3BtrEK2y9x5b05ffdRFQIVmljdTCPSvSw5EXcLobsibg_1N14no0PN8STpMzl7GTfA5WxTO2H8RPZmBPgW2sLD_hoQdUpUecrKSIOl0LdWFQ9C-mA79zHNrHCX7uDkjh1ACcbrb3M/s1600/www.kenoaresort.com-by-rogerio-maranhao-newnew-%25287%2529.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639363646380905762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrHO3BtrEK2y9x5b05ffdRFQIVmljdTCPSvSw5EXcLobsibg_1N14no0PN8STpMzl7GTfA5WxTO2H8RPZmBPgW2sLD_hoQdUpUecrKSIOl0LdWFQ9C-mA79zHNrHCX7uDkjh1ACcbrb3M/s400/www.kenoaresort.com-by-rogerio-maranhao-newnew-%25287%2529.jpg" border="0" /></a>
<br />This impressive architecture is home to 23 luxurious suites, ranging from 45 to 200 square meters, depending which accommodation you choose. Some even have a private jacuzzi overlooking the beach. Whow! I am looking forward, that´s for sure! Specially when summer´s crowds have not yet arrived and this stretch of sandy beach is the perfect haven for relaxing, fancy long walks and tan yourself under the nicest weather ever.
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRB9WqcomE7_bAog8XCQcJjXvflQpfiB0NygXwPvkai6dEPCCgXdn_nvUvWoSw6pO5iBSqnnB_jazxsz0VAR6QHXA3Ljjiz-5VNHwLsgiHap-Qk2zEtFkQJA46hLFQZzK6iVd2IVno8oE/s1600/www.kenoaresort.com-by-rogerio-maranhao-%2528331%2529.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639363558231745698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRB9WqcomE7_bAog8XCQcJjXvflQpfiB0NygXwPvkai6dEPCCgXdn_nvUvWoSw6pO5iBSqnnB_jazxsz0VAR6QHXA3Ljjiz-5VNHwLsgiHap-Qk2zEtFkQJA46hLFQZzK6iVd2IVno8oE/s400/www.kenoaresort.com-by-rogerio-maranhao-%2528331%2529.jpg" border="0" /></a>
<br />Barra de São Miguel could easily become the destination on everybody´s lips, specially when you can stay in such a serenely stylish paradise known to only the savviest of travellers. But I´d feel bad if I wouldn´t share this secret with you, and though I still do not know the Kenoa personally, there´s little doubt that it will be a knock-out! Besides all the ammenities in the room, there´s a spa, a restaurant and a lounge to feel as pampered as royalty.
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguIYW6oWrxtCFh94wURApwA1KCo0coSiFJZ1jRZzoFhfpjZWBxjSQ18cMbrgtXyxGCLY9J0RIgrxcNGDPRonMPTYAKonYkKKA3SSwqOmzTevzi3JzjRBaDSudpsP7rq2DYj4gLHT1tzaM/s1600/www.kenoaresort.com-by-rogerio-maranhao-newnew-%252814%2529.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639363348339177010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguIYW6oWrxtCFh94wURApwA1KCo0coSiFJZ1jRZzoFhfpjZWBxjSQ18cMbrgtXyxGCLY9J0RIgrxcNGDPRonMPTYAKonYkKKA3SSwqOmzTevzi3JzjRBaDSudpsP7rq2DYj4gLHT1tzaM/s400/www.kenoaresort.com-by-rogerio-maranhao-newnew-%252814%2529.jpg" border="0" /></a>
<br />Spending nights in this beautiful environement is a vital part of any holiday. As I am focused on suggesting special spots for spending New Year´s Eve, I wouldn´t be pushing the envelope if I didn´t tell those nature buffs to consider Barra de São Miguel as a perfect choice. It may - as usual! - cost you a leg and an arm, but trust me, it´s worth it. I´ve been told that they still have availability, so...rush!
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRVjnBn7LrrYd4KnBPfcpzQwNPz_uoBZhCuCw8UIiIRRgonjeuXGeFCLTnE4Xp8Ui57ECgPnIydFSHwGUlyZSVx_nhpSX4BYoi-o9CgPhXXzJPwur5haJCc91cGypYVeRbGnJXAl_unM/s1600/www.kenoaresort.com-by-rogerio-maranhao-%2528198%2529.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639363208461724434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 222px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRVjnBn7LrrYd4KnBPfcpzQwNPz_uoBZhCuCw8UIiIRRgonjeuXGeFCLTnE4Xp8Ui57ECgPnIydFSHwGUlyZSVx_nhpSX4BYoi-o9CgPhXXzJPwur5haJCc91cGypYVeRbGnJXAl_unM/s400/www.kenoaresort.com-by-rogerio-maranhao-%2528198%2529.jpg" border="0" /></a>
<br />Every detail in the Kenoa draws my eyes like a magnet, as creature comforts were not overlooked: huge luxurious bed, peerless views, wi fi, huge TV, you name it. I expect my stay to be deliriously good and I promise to keep you posted.
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<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Q_lf-8U96apO6822ypVRtu5GNnOFlDPUnDss04es7u9c1E_ZMgCd-Kd6V9Lhb9iY53qc8stf8OcBaG1zUzp9fQqBht7VA2n4I9C7t2lxC6WUijNlFUnAKtLd8q9Vcto0fKf3KMqHurM/s1600/www.kenoaresort.com-by-rogerio-maranhao-%2528163%2529.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639363078557614594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 327px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Q_lf-8U96apO6822ypVRtu5GNnOFlDPUnDss04es7u9c1E_ZMgCd-Kd6V9Lhb9iY53qc8stf8OcBaG1zUzp9fQqBht7VA2n4I9C7t2lxC6WUijNlFUnAKtLd8q9Vcto0fKf3KMqHurM/s400/www.kenoaresort.com-by-rogerio-maranhao-%2528163%2529.jpg" border="0" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://www.kenoaresort.com/">www.kenoaresort.com</a> </div>
<br /><div>tel.55 82 3272 1285
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<br />antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-24528699286007616672011-08-04T16:06:00.000-07:002011-08-04T16:37:47.860-07:00Flexeiras, very secluded hub for New Year´s Eve<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzjgxx0CT5j6INuVbOBkjv6IrsKKUjsH86idLysfGL-R9xM5_GaP34M8BR_BPgAh9N2qX4L1KqIOMH-4yTi0QDglUoyRf71wzAyVC1Y3QzKmy8Jy7jBEnTrBoDceAuml8RdN5lN5k0PxQ/s1600/422_CMYK.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637141490283384818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzjgxx0CT5j6INuVbOBkjv6IrsKKUjsH86idLysfGL-R9xM5_GaP34M8BR_BPgAh9N2qX4L1KqIOMH-4yTi0QDglUoyRf71wzAyVC1Y3QzKmy8Jy7jBEnTrBoDceAuml8RdN5lN5k0PxQ/s400/422_CMYK.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><strong><em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><strong><em></em></strong><br />Just take a deep breath - and a good look! - at the picture, then at the tiny swimming pools behind the coconut trees, then at the sandy beach, the translucid sea...Yes, it´s real. Doesn´t it make you want to transpond yourself immediately into that pretty setting? Now, just fancy yourself arriving in this fishing village called Flexeiras - just about 40km from capital Fortaleza, Ceará - which, did I mentionned before, is my favorite state in the whole of Brazil. Chances are that after reading this post you´ll have the urge to consider spending New Year´s Eve there, just splurging but also enjoying one of the most privy place on earth. The resort is called Orixas Art Hotel ( <a href="http://www.orixasarthotel.com.br/">www.orixasarthotel.com.br</a>) and is relatively a new kid on the block - oops! sorry, on this beautiful fragment of sandy beach located a world away from the agitated places.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghr9MFxC3KR__9qw8uNBZyvovNdeC-n3Zm3Q5FwUlvqHE14dP1sGcRCfBYJrgMUY3PsCjiCRahR2j0_crEg0gD5FdeJVKXN0o5jxountg1-c4REOyFfNvub-rcHAMk5XkodFRGYBO3wXU/s1600/Aerea_Flecheiras.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637141425606287714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghr9MFxC3KR__9qw8uNBZyvovNdeC-n3Zm3Q5FwUlvqHE14dP1sGcRCfBYJrgMUY3PsCjiCRahR2j0_crEg0gD5FdeJVKXN0o5jxountg1-c4REOyFfNvub-rcHAMk5XkodFRGYBO3wXU/s400/Aerea_Flecheiras.jpg" border="0" /></a> But, even if it can cost you a leg and an arm ( which usually happens during high season and specially the end of the year), you´ll need to look no further than a few feet to unearth the best unspoilt beach ever. From your suite - which bear names like Babalaós, Oxum, Yemanjá , Obaluayá, all deities from Afro-Brazilian culture, revered by locals of the northeastern coast - you can have peerless views of the sea, coconut grove and the jangadas, the typical fishermen´s boats. Ah, by the way, you can go for a nice ride on one of them, I guarantee you´ll enjoy it.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbFt8CMXHwnlGNgWV4t1gGbEhjaS5xT4Arkdr4EowX45xNagwpLztH5hKkPfJK4sP6_xOs2WL0Xv5LAUtuOgQsu2mOQosIULzE3y-8LFQt6eB14BUdZvDVloiGpo-zsNdjwNxru_eS18/s1600/Praia_%252889%2529.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637141317380384610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbFt8CMXHwnlGNgWV4t1gGbEhjaS5xT4Arkdr4EowX45xNagwpLztH5hKkPfJK4sP6_xOs2WL0Xv5LAUtuOgQsu2mOQosIULzE3y-8LFQt6eB14BUdZvDVloiGpo-zsNdjwNxru_eS18/s400/Praia_%252889%2529.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Blissfully unpeopled, pocket size Flexeiras is not for an urbanite. It´s been a while since I´ve known this small village, and was impressed. Hopefully, it has maintained its characteristics, so that you´ll have the feeling of being a traveller instead of a tourist. Hopefully.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-73547303833893599822011-07-23T21:14:00.000-07:002011-07-24T11:26:02.040-07:00New Year´s Eve will strike again soon!<div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ioYgVYzbYS8w9NbUe71cAjuiIBOXGng4pFNRTVgfoC07Y9yT-rjPrEXy-Rr2kj2TS5F2k-oHzDWOzcgJIQ5pGbmPz1yPOsASDM7DbzGPPmi2X3qYAaGWI5L0fUqBnchlu-5Md56tj8k/s1600/A%25C3%25A9rea-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632768166159980626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ioYgVYzbYS8w9NbUe71cAjuiIBOXGng4pFNRTVgfoC07Y9yT-rjPrEXy-Rr2kj2TS5F2k-oHzDWOzcgJIQ5pGbmPz1yPOsASDM7DbzGPPmi2X3qYAaGWI5L0fUqBnchlu-5Md56tj8k/s400/A%25C3%25A9rea-1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><strong><em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><strong><em></em></strong></div><br />I can´t believe we are already thinking about New Year´s Eve, but if you are like me, it´s already late. I´ve booked mine months ago - and guess where? Same place than last year´s. Yes, it´s Tibau do Sul alright. And next week I´ll have good news for you about this spot, because I just found out that there´s a new luxurious place for you to try your luck. In the meantime, let´s figure out what can be done from now on. Well, Bahia is always on everybody´s mind, so we´ll begin our list with a very discreet though very upscale Boipeba, not an easy access ( but who cares, once there, it´s paradise!).<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_vZ1LqmuoVj-Rkh9ZRdIdmLXbfE3UbsA-UtUTHx4JH7L62WPuS1BMvAWY4gWWRQnICucj53r-7CnQH4ACyxu3kz_-6K-AVr-SYdCzPBpFgtBGhMTd0M9Xt8nJsWlRtJWfSo1ei4s4DYE/s1600/P1020859.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632767855337423074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_vZ1LqmuoVj-Rkh9ZRdIdmLXbfE3UbsA-UtUTHx4JH7L62WPuS1BMvAWY4gWWRQnICucj53r-7CnQH4ACyxu3kz_-6K-AVr-SYdCzPBpFgtBGhMTd0M9Xt8nJsWlRtJWfSo1ei4s4DYE/s400/P1020859.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />As all places out of (easy) reach, this secluded location retains its cachet. And so does the Pousada Mangabeiras ( <a href="http://www.pousadamangabeiras.com.br/">http://www.pousadamangabeiras.com.br/</a>) where you´ll find the very relaxing way to spend the most sought-after vacation of the year. The pousada is part of reputed Roteiros de Charme, a well-known chain of charming small hotels in Brazil.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExJ9N7-FVU0qawP18ZztY7v_qlqMLAN1Ovd5Erao80zK42Hd3tX8oWunssAVNzruswOsltbIcMAcLxgMWAJP1ddSRKbpTnThyj4D62NCJFcv8cmLSq29C_jm-3a4f0xs2eUVZuuJ93gA/s1600/Por-do-sol-varanda.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632767754838455202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExJ9N7-FVU0qawP18ZztY7v_qlqMLAN1Ovd5Erao80zK42Hd3tX8oWunssAVNzruswOsltbIcMAcLxgMWAJP1ddSRKbpTnThyj4D62NCJFcv8cmLSq29C_jm-3a4f0xs2eUVZuuJ93gA/s400/Por-do-sol-varanda.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />With intimacy combined with rustic sophistication in the bungalows, you are deep into the surrounding nature, which is unspoilt and unexplored. And also blissfully unpeopled.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipkrAJ4mzjpPUh2CiOFkkNCVHsD3zEIIEOGBP_5KmBMgEIovCR__HIJuXIom3IMqWY027Z0RMK4CdreFx7XC5HWkFjfXVWI7yLyPo6soTDc7vmp5tF1IC-VT1r2I-aWJWiYTVrCOnAz0w/s1600/Vista.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632767676379230738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipkrAJ4mzjpPUh2CiOFkkNCVHsD3zEIIEOGBP_5KmBMgEIovCR__HIJuXIom3IMqWY027Z0RMK4CdreFx7XC5HWkFjfXVWI7yLyPo6soTDc7vmp5tF1IC-VT1r2I-aWJWiYTVrCOnAz0w/s400/Vista.jpg" border="0" /></a> As you are framed by blissfully deserted beaches, the most exquisite torture will be to tan the days away under plentiful of sunshine or submit yourself to sessions of massage and/or acunpuncture, offered in the pousada. For New Year´s Eve, the 6-nights package is still available at rates which range from R$7.910,00 to R$ 9.260 for the Master Bungalow. But, hurry up, as space is limited!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-8561238397115760972011-07-19T18:29:00.000-07:002011-07-19T19:18:24.690-07:00Itaipava Fair :a small shopping enclosure for good deals<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTcjjHIl3Z3wa_O6n76WMx9fOMvXapBZNRm-v9EQlG8cRQICE_oE9_lURsQBO4OgZGGkey23EmJDJjDT-09RGIY3usNFWs8iT7qpinaLaKxmPC7yUOFGuDsoilZ9DPAWwdiShFLi7jA-I/s1600/IMG_4948.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631241088398048498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTcjjHIl3Z3wa_O6n76WMx9fOMvXapBZNRm-v9EQlG8cRQICE_oE9_lURsQBO4OgZGGkey23EmJDJjDT-09RGIY3usNFWs8iT7qpinaLaKxmPC7yUOFGuDsoilZ9DPAWwdiShFLi7jA-I/s400/IMG_4948.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong><em> by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><strong><em></em></strong><br />I really feel awfully guilty for not posting more while away from Brazil. But as soon as I´ll be back home, there´s a promise that I will sink into the latest good news for you. In the meantime, let me tell you about a little secret which is known only by the locals who spend time in the mountain region of Itaipava, Araras and neighborhood areas. It´s the Feirinha de Itaipava, which packs around 400 stalls of locally made clothes and accessories. And there´s more...<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirsai9zaFSCIUIfj4bBHuBYyopPXcZjK2V3-GkEo7HkuOVs8l3QcMU3HKSPEjj05x8jMoZvPOEMscw7n2DqH9hx57zRFHRXEyB58NakqNAJ83LvyloTY2can0V6msyYNYT4lFhZoyajlc/s1600/IMG_4944.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631240998440635522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirsai9zaFSCIUIfj4bBHuBYyopPXcZjK2V3-GkEo7HkuOVs8l3QcMU3HKSPEjj05x8jMoZvPOEMscw7n2DqH9hx57zRFHRXEyB58NakqNAJ83LvyloTY2can0V6msyYNYT4lFhZoyajlc/s400/IMG_4944.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />It´s not a tourist-trap and the attraction lies partly in browsing all of the stalls ( it won´t take a day, just a couple of hours) for good offers, besides getting the experience of shopping in a typically clothing fair. From bags to pets´clothes, you may find excellent children´s trousers, sweatshirts, shorts, dresses, socks, overalls and an infinite list of have-to-buy stuff, like underwear and hats...<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjQH-11q2Aal6tybSgd0qf4AKPkizYb0iCcFnba7_3Yv2j2u9Fq1KN-j_sgiP2-YF0cBRiPuXcaxXXzGXYaZEDZj9DjYDxf0VvXR7hoqXIH2n1IPVTZEOoiJTVnDDfPEw5Xf3GmmlZj5w/s1600/IMG_4946.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631240911973085730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjQH-11q2Aal6tybSgd0qf4AKPkizYb0iCcFnba7_3Yv2j2u9Fq1KN-j_sgiP2-YF0cBRiPuXcaxXXzGXYaZEDZj9DjYDxf0VvXR7hoqXIH2n1IPVTZEOoiJTVnDDfPEw5Xf3GmmlZj5w/s400/IMG_4946.jpg" border="0" /></a> The fair is partially outdoors, but on a rainy day will be okay as the stalls are protected. By the way, this fair happens only during the weekend, from 10 till 7 pm and is an ideal year-round program if you are on your way to Itaipava, Três Rios, Araras or Bonsucesso.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlBmCjhsZ-31dfEy45RM0joDj1rDTymN-3-E1otodp3qZHJ4yfW3oP4OEqyzfOfkL-kSrEPEOqS-7Rr_yObeBSVgcSgDc5phfOxzqyyBChX0zqCcYq0-Y9yC5tGkgcZcxMVY3OVDjfPcg/s1600/IMG_4939.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631240831545239138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlBmCjhsZ-31dfEy45RM0joDj1rDTymN-3-E1otodp3qZHJ4yfW3oP4OEqyzfOfkL-kSrEPEOqS-7Rr_yObeBSVgcSgDc5phfOxzqyyBChX0zqCcYq0-Y9yC5tGkgcZcxMVY3OVDjfPcg/s400/IMG_4939.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Of course, do not expect anything fashionable or fancy, or any well know brand, but the clothes have quality : Itaipava is reputed for its jerseys, which come in handy during winter time, when temperatures fall under 10º C in these places - which is considered frosty by the cariocas´standards. So, if you are not after a famous label on your sweat shirt, consider it a child´s play to look around and find yourself something comfy to watch TV in front of a fireplace.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcZsRNqfHIsuLHSxX6Ve6RgsaKXu35ZXkMN97ooY3xw8t5bLZZSZLeNFaOp6ImUnx_uBljtLI4u4l9FOZKqy3Uk5cQU1pEgw4dCyPnhMZLqVMR26nOiQJ2RNsLAC7kJi5kuDPtOTdkyYc/s1600/IMG_4943.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631240762964937586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcZsRNqfHIsuLHSxX6Ve6RgsaKXu35ZXkMN97ooY3xw8t5bLZZSZLeNFaOp6ImUnx_uBljtLI4u4l9FOZKqy3Uk5cQU1pEgw4dCyPnhMZLqVMR26nOiQJ2RNsLAC7kJi5kuDPtOTdkyYc/s400/IMG_4943.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />By the way, you are only a couple of hours from busy Rio, so if your way passes along the BR-40, remember very few places pack as many hidden "gems" into such a small space. It´s an outlet for those who are inclined to spare a couple of bucks...Why not?<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-64222958270125744172011-06-17T13:52:00.000-07:002011-06-17T14:54:26.424-07:00Búzios after and before the crowds<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRttZ6GMXBDu7AmTQoltBGzguMiVJv1d71zzUNBfSs0eWSKtR11VhDcQdHXve9qMmrMFS8nVh71hsf2zSKL3JB91x4WVyrA_BND1QnD-ZlYT7Qy65i5JIFicV-KeA0-czGjQpnsotjCIg/s1600/IMG_4373.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619294950079418242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRttZ6GMXBDu7AmTQoltBGzguMiVJv1d71zzUNBfSs0eWSKtR11VhDcQdHXve9qMmrMFS8nVh71hsf2zSKL3JB91x4WVyrA_BND1QnD-ZlYT7Qy65i5JIFicV-KeA0-czGjQpnsotjCIg/s400/IMG_4373.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong><em> by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><strong><em></em></strong><br />Yes, I know, shame on me for not feeding you guys with new stuff regarding Brazil. I haven´t been around much myself, although crossing borders to neighborhoods like Bolivia and Chile might sound familiar. Though picturesque landscapes appeal to me, there´s nothing like going to places off-season, so I take the advantage to escape the crowds whenever - and wherever - there´s an opportunity. So before I begin thinking about the suggestions for you to spend New Year´s Eve in crowded places of Brazil, let me give you a short hint on where to go this winter.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh207MHV7l5bDjXfoVwdGIN4KluLiIZbtlz9i9Af-QqfbDsUJ4Tlc9KDHNIl2rUZdl2ZrTVduO79JNpyO9BVkkyw1iP-aNE_HJPtffBclaU4rDsPSmNArI91Apk5JB8A6kQ58AqN5MzhmY/s1600/IMG_4370.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619294875894585810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh207MHV7l5bDjXfoVwdGIN4KluLiIZbtlz9i9Af-QqfbDsUJ4Tlc9KDHNIl2rUZdl2ZrTVduO79JNpyO9BVkkyw1iP-aNE_HJPtffBclaU4rDsPSmNArI91Apk5JB8A6kQ58AqN5MzhmY/s400/IMG_4370.jpg" border="0" /></a> Affordable-chic Búzios is a must-go destination between June and November - but bear in mind to skip the public holidays ( 23rd of June, 7th of September, 12th of October, 2nd and 15th of November) when the crowds do appear out of the blue. Other than those crucial dates, this seaside resort is a magical place, an Aladdin´s cave of quiet - almost deserted - beaches, secret coves and a handful of blissfully unpeopled restaurants to choose from. The location is fabulous, only a couple of hours from Rio, and the road is well maintained. <br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjMi2xc7xZxY_E11LHNtLGbBq-gr6T30B9ukznYMIeDtGT1aXZYP4UwtSn46bEHD8U9X0WzrgErBChv28mOH86fDXUROTTLrJBIysg00cEuxmAh_uCIPMOU3wub6Au8F31CKwhnIsQvGg/s1600/manguinhos_2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619294792010434658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjMi2xc7xZxY_E11LHNtLGbBq-gr6T30B9ukznYMIeDtGT1aXZYP4UwtSn46bEHD8U9X0WzrgErBChv28mOH86fDXUROTTLrJBIysg00cEuxmAh_uCIPMOU3wub6Au8F31CKwhnIsQvGg/s400/manguinhos_2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Pocket-sized enough for you to stroll around biking, hiking or even horseriding, there are some other relaxing ways to enjoy Búzios off-season: plenty of sunshine so you can guarantee a perfect suntan in just a weekend; low rainfall and enviable climate even if elsewhere the sun is not shining...Combine intimacy with <em>grandeur,</em> choosing one of the seaside boutique hotels which have mushroomed during the last few years. And act as a discerning traveller, spending time in a beautiful environment - which is a vital part of any holiday.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-81843368097306086902011-05-12T05:51:00.000-07:002011-05-13T13:41:06.097-07:00Quads in the Pantanal<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhkP0NAiOXCJ3lAUyQeTsXRmzsj7htzn8MPianBpYkIA68aFImQes3TXe46n1BNs0hsQb-XPGRZvJ-Z-GIUSM2t7KnOScw8IxSxVA3vypEj1pt7KqysTismyl-JbP6TxM8pZUyTI7afSA/s1600/arara-azul-namorando_1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605811912666085538" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhkP0NAiOXCJ3lAUyQeTsXRmzsj7htzn8MPianBpYkIA68aFImQes3TXe46n1BNs0hsQb-XPGRZvJ-Z-GIUSM2t7KnOScw8IxSxVA3vypEj1pt7KqysTismyl-JbP6TxM8pZUyTI7afSA/s400/arara-azul-namorando_1.jpg" /></a><em><strong>by Antonella Kann</strong></em><br /><br />I am an adventure buff. Anything that´s off the beaten track appeals to me. But it doesn´t mean that I ´m involving myself in a risky trip. On the contrary. It´s just that as an outdoor enthusiast I believe there are many un-googleable ways to travel.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ji_kLE4MrjY2J-AcDEyG4rWz5NMXnnyekTHCugTZCCXAz0WeJ6x9F-UgK843r2Ez1Go6q3tC2dfrYg8e52Wora3jllvjeMM5NPU8YftlZfYr28kojxePR_9pJN1C-pUIuDQy316g878/s1600/gaviao-no-tronco.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605811844995927234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ji_kLE4MrjY2J-AcDEyG4rWz5NMXnnyekTHCugTZCCXAz0WeJ6x9F-UgK843r2Ez1Go6q3tC2dfrYg8e52Wora3jllvjeMM5NPU8YftlZfYr28kojxePR_9pJN1C-pUIuDQy316g878/s400/gaviao-no-tronco.jpg" /></a> When my friend Dedeco, who owns a company called Trip Tur, based in southern state of Santa Catarina, told me that he was organizing a quad expedition to the Pantanal ( Brazil´s wet lands located in the middle of the country ) it was like ringing a bell: with the quads, he intends to deposit you in areas which you´d never have access otherwise or by other means of transportation.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLdqQ_Qy_869wu6jsdh-WvKvJoarXLCPfA3x868ILxASOmMUVxdqOU1EshhX8QWDQyG_mJO81XCbtWiIWD3RwPdQRmguHYlEIbKXkV5iTvfn2NpJeOllfg-_4CzaFyoBny8x1F3ueRgiw/s1600/macaco-prego_1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605811788970711538" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLdqQ_Qy_869wu6jsdh-WvKvJoarXLCPfA3x868ILxASOmMUVxdqOU1EshhX8QWDQyG_mJO81XCbtWiIWD3RwPdQRmguHYlEIbKXkV5iTvfn2NpJeOllfg-_4CzaFyoBny8x1F3ueRgiw/s400/macaco-prego_1.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Although it´s not exactly a laidback sort of trip – you drive a powerful machine which demands a bit of energy and good physical condition - there´s no reason to groan about it: it allows you to explore the incredibly beautiful terrain of the Pantanal, which harbors eye-filling views and specially wild animals in their habitat.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrxmvgWWvxH4vLlP7ufOWCXUlQtIF8-NQU2a74BkT3hxXZPW_XSdxi47pZ76JuVA6Lw7lvX81FP051v0qgBYX6aVuwXi0VfmE4ykRxgko5pdv5FPA9ZkzQGM4N1MlhTpTWMF1PJHrBiCM/s1600/CERVO-DO-PANTANAL-e-tuiuiu-voando.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 295px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605811712072218770" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrxmvgWWvxH4vLlP7ufOWCXUlQtIF8-NQU2a74BkT3hxXZPW_XSdxi47pZ76JuVA6Lw7lvX81FP051v0qgBYX6aVuwXi0VfmE4ykRxgko5pdv5FPA9ZkzQGM4N1MlhTpTWMF1PJHrBiCM/s400/CERVO-DO-PANTANAL-e-tuiuiu-voando.jpg" /></a><br />Think monkeys, blue macaws, deers, birds of all species and crocodiles in their environement…of knee-trembling beauty. The region is blissfully unpeopled, and you´ll be hipnotized by natural gems.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg42SZpBLQERtQJxze4LzEldgSutvqVpVgMLtoA9a0TJNWGRGD2rDl6XDfyWLiy6FadEaYn1K-XNjzslcKn8nwOlKzAtC1sz3k1qZx9d_tI82cV6USIxhR3A9aUBQLu-DnBz1hnwE2pd-Q/s1600/jacare-.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605811619564386610" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg42SZpBLQERtQJxze4LzEldgSutvqVpVgMLtoA9a0TJNWGRGD2rDl6XDfyWLiy6FadEaYn1K-XNjzslcKn8nwOlKzAtC1sz3k1qZx9d_tI82cV6USIxhR3A9aUBQLu-DnBz1hnwE2pd-Q/s400/jacare-.jpg" /></a><br /><br />But let´s talk quad: a 4x4 vehicle which can be driven by anyone over 16 years old. It´s so easy to operate that within 15 minutes Dedeco will teach you the basics. Then, follow the guide! It´s more a toy than a vehicle, believe me. I also am positive that it´s the most enchanting way to have the Pantanal revealed to you. And I have been there a couple of times.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcTkhxEgpLpNTtVZ5LOdw9C43FofBL5SvdzwBPQQ6mwTdsc-rWdyJaSnxxsdE7rFZatIqy8eEnhJIfAI-P2CczdyQbKtgi6EJN02NmHzIpNz7eupnFHQ8okDJhyqYJLUq4V9BfpPSmNg/s1600/sinfonia-matinal-de-passarinhos.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605811544408130930" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcTkhxEgpLpNTtVZ5LOdw9C43FofBL5SvdzwBPQQ6mwTdsc-rWdyJaSnxxsdE7rFZatIqy8eEnhJIfAI-P2CczdyQbKtgi6EJN02NmHzIpNz7eupnFHQ8okDJhyqYJLUq4V9BfpPSmNg/s400/sinfonia-matinal-de-passarinhos.jpg" /></a><br /><br />There will be a few expeditions from the end of June to beginning of August. As they´ve not done this itinerary before, I can´t provide you with local pictures. But, I can assure you that although the Pantanal is not devoid of tourist gloss, the path taken by quads will certainly be a wander through virgin spots.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfoSQu3IL-9yJgDY5YOE_2c7uvVoCCY5Xzu3uRfLdlmB7WETNw31NxuMNVKKq2ZrOQVEJcQL-0aBi7tW5RzWomFZnfafiG5x6_p0y5mDsxRflBjeFlFtyNFpStngyu2qhzChNxaCUCq0Q/s1600/tuiuiu-e-gar%25C3%25A7a-no-pantanal.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605811470023424962" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfoSQu3IL-9yJgDY5YOE_2c7uvVoCCY5Xzu3uRfLdlmB7WETNw31NxuMNVKKq2ZrOQVEJcQL-0aBi7tW5RzWomFZnfafiG5x6_p0y5mDsxRflBjeFlFtyNFpStngyu2qhzChNxaCUCq0Q/s400/tuiuiu-e-gar%25C3%25A7a-no-pantanal.jpg" /></a><br />The trip includes accomodation, food and guide. And all the guidance that you´ll need. I recommend browsing their site <a href="http://www.triptur.com.br/">http://www.triptur.com.br/</a> to get more details and the precise dates of departure. Groups are small – max of 10 participants – and fun is guaranteed! I am looking forward for my turn to come - in the beginning of August.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-keVd5-PtDIN-R3BEiLmOo0NnN0sPTwQg7fyFR80_sN8GDU0RR_OCMAE-qZbT2mERUcwCoj9YL85IKtm0s8SEwUmz5QhX3MpCAvF8CuT-IfD4JuGVPPv3jNo9sn4bJKqO4AfC-8JYKY/s1600/tucaninho.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605811388094060738" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-keVd5-PtDIN-R3BEiLmOo0NnN0sPTwQg7fyFR80_sN8GDU0RR_OCMAE-qZbT2mERUcwCoj9YL85IKtm0s8SEwUmz5QhX3MpCAvF8CuT-IfD4JuGVPPv3jNo9sn4bJKqO4AfC-8JYKY/s400/tucaninho.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div></div></div></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-80475850948055157552011-04-17T19:19:00.000-07:002011-04-20T15:57:35.174-07:00Goiás Velho, beautifully restored colonial town in Goiás<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjxoPbL8uSoXgxPvTUcaHBfdl9Uv2d9CvdN9mW_-ygUnSqMwFeDMrlGR-IwFHanDOeKBIJrjbHMLPGThqvGOPy8aXQiJ35SwmBjjarZ4U5dYy7a4uKZ0KiLcC5jkduMSwDYaOw1u6EOCg/s1600/goias-velho-sino-da-igreja-vista-cidade_6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596743734643058402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 241px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjxoPbL8uSoXgxPvTUcaHBfdl9Uv2d9CvdN9mW_-ygUnSqMwFeDMrlGR-IwFHanDOeKBIJrjbHMLPGThqvGOPy8aXQiJ35SwmBjjarZ4U5dYy7a4uKZ0KiLcC5jkduMSwDYaOw1u6EOCg/s400/goias-velho-sino-da-igreja-vista-cidade_6.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><strong><em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Did I ever mention that the state of Goiás is one of my favorites but overall also one of the least mentioned. Places like Goiás Velho, a historic town which is an unusual tourist-brochure destination, deserves much more than just the simple tag as a preserved colonial town.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuCf6KvojWalnP_edylQi9U0x1ECKOPf1LeflIoKbr8VEB4egbRZx3mhOvXIZu-xBgdp0QPvpL3-EZ_ZU57N_L_zoB6cFFTPRYhqB4dT2V80hpmU5BurQA9Qoy-O6vFAh_ISKSkGi7-qQ/s1600/rua-tipica-cidade-de-goias.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596743670892515858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuCf6KvojWalnP_edylQi9U0x1ECKOPf1LeflIoKbr8VEB4egbRZx3mhOvXIZu-xBgdp0QPvpL3-EZ_ZU57N_L_zoB6cFFTPRYhqB4dT2V80hpmU5BurQA9Qoy-O6vFAh_ISKSkGi7-qQ/s400/rua-tipica-cidade-de-goias.jpg" border="0" /></a> It´s not too far away from capital Goiania, so you can drive safely and easily from the airport right into town in well preserved roads. Then, just park your vehicle and start walking. There´s the usual main praça (place), typical to any old configuration of city planning. Around, there´s some commerce but locals tend to stroll around this strategic location at sunset and on Sundays too, after mass.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-DOB6ScqfCNaUG5mX0GpEfILCGu-BoVqsAizdHzhjymLw-ZbkY9eEP1Bfg2NjoDno1zZysWxN_1IfU-GaptRBp4cW3CIeIUqsC3Z10ivh0UKGOi_QFp0U7q0yDWjXStrTTh8PvLqmVg/s1600/pra%25C3%25A7a-do-coreto.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596743566242661938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-DOB6ScqfCNaUG5mX0GpEfILCGu-BoVqsAizdHzhjymLw-ZbkY9eEP1Bfg2NjoDno1zZysWxN_1IfU-GaptRBp4cW3CIeIUqsC3Z10ivh0UKGOi_QFp0U7q0yDWjXStrTTh8PvLqmVg/s400/pra%25C3%25A7a-do-coreto.jpg" border="0" /></a> Goiás Velho is a laid-back sort of place and the main attraction is the traditional hospitality: as a gesture of welcome, and quoting words from famous local poet <strong>Cora Coralina</strong> “ Every door remains open, as a habit,” she used to say. And it´s true. Nowadays, this kind of gesture is not only rare but something to be proud of. And heartwarming….</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHs7OhB56_Y1XIi15KPZm7-6mL1RZg-uuryvCMkGnG2ngp_wDRuqyzkTlZhcjEIrTP3OwtEpkbBLw8ZCNLSkCLIH2UhtL_qzDRJlfVDmJrAGdiYOLwIZTcM4CcVrVTVSvsvBDMJd26tI/s1600/rua-tipica_3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596743459606743266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHs7OhB56_Y1XIi15KPZm7-6mL1RZg-uuryvCMkGnG2ngp_wDRuqyzkTlZhcjEIrTP3OwtEpkbBLw8ZCNLSkCLIH2UhtL_qzDRJlfVDmJrAGdiYOLwIZTcM4CcVrVTVSvsvBDMJd26tI/s400/rua-tipica_3.jpg" border="0" /></a> While strolling along cobbled streets, colored façades and old sobrados , charming right to its pavements, I realize that this town is an ideal year-round destination. And you won´t bump into tourist-trap restaurants nor be stalked by wish-to-be-guides or even fooled to pay more for a piece of artcraft in one of the souvenir shops. </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGOmzz0vC0207gZ3MVh4t7Jcjd4liUBbeqHRvqiZ3gGfYB1IO6hyQxtEfjuSSsWHUOi9Wy8MfKKa3ZcH6c_Uxft079S-CY7icYVxWJbpBGhERGYN1FFOKt5KFJnA_1Rz5std6vPBRIfAc/s1600/igrejinha-goias-velho.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596743363105904066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGOmzz0vC0207gZ3MVh4t7Jcjd4liUBbeqHRvqiZ3gGfYB1IO6hyQxtEfjuSSsWHUOi9Wy8MfKKa3ZcH6c_Uxft079S-CY7icYVxWJbpBGhERGYN1FFOKt5KFJnA_1Rz5std6vPBRIfAc/s400/igrejinha-goias-velho.jpg" border="0" /></a> But do not miss the opportunity to hire a horse-driven carriage to explore every corner of Goiás Velho, which hide a dashing assemblage of 18th century colonial houses, churches and architecture gems. It´s great for capturing pictures of the inhabitants who usually sit in front of their homes, watching the world go by – with their door wide open, naturally.</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRkgWiCTaCf7jvHcMapZ2IceiV6f-lWchabyJEFX_IrnPXkQzxc5BJBUe2tcvt63jRS-402Fos2_nVLDeXo1YBFq6F6OdMWwczc_oi-Uei1fLpDcwMjcsKzp1T8BVTCH5dUHA-4cL8ID4/s1600/rua-de-goias-velho_7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596743291518131234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRkgWiCTaCf7jvHcMapZ2IceiV6f-lWchabyJEFX_IrnPXkQzxc5BJBUe2tcvt63jRS-402Fos2_nVLDeXo1YBFq6F6OdMWwczc_oi-Uei1fLpDcwMjcsKzp1T8BVTCH5dUHA-4cL8ID4/s400/rua-de-goias-velho_7.jpg" border="0" /></a> Eventually you´ll feel hungry and should try the regional specialty called empadão goiano, which is a pie filled with all sorts of meat, from pork to chicken, as well as sausages and other invigorating seasonal produces. Look for menus featuring this dish – quite easy to bump into. </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcB1QVPkiwjAtymex9FuPsqc16ko0arMfWpyIkiEu-zNuMWmjK-Ra561DYW7ihgQ7h94en78Ekq7qpiXdBPoaTNErwqrfXv0m2lwhBX2hbTO8jGdizH-fyBZ_SHeAYhnGI7mT5MjoZcQA/s1600/Museu-de-Arte-Sacra-Goias-Velho.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596743206341713298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcB1QVPkiwjAtymex9FuPsqc16ko0arMfWpyIkiEu-zNuMWmjK-Ra561DYW7ihgQ7h94en78Ekq7qpiXdBPoaTNErwqrfXv0m2lwhBX2hbTO8jGdizH-fyBZ_SHeAYhnGI7mT5MjoZcQA/s400/Museu-de-Arte-Sacra-Goias-Velho.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG1paCHxgV_8hZGFL4RIECNTqzRs-22J1hwjqIAyd0d7mpgth81uwsmGOeu6cbsLosaCy9jsrBF-RV74Dq9lZP-jGIgLRJXhVaYKHYl14GAlJjQ85QCs56Ca1tNN0Nx-q0nYHcB5WvWb0/s1600/igrejinha-goias-velho.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596743128086540674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG1paCHxgV_8hZGFL4RIECNTqzRs-22J1hwjqIAyd0d7mpgth81uwsmGOeu6cbsLosaCy9jsrBF-RV74Dq9lZP-jGIgLRJXhVaYKHYl14GAlJjQ85QCs56Ca1tNN0Nx-q0nYHcB5WvWb0/s400/igrejinha-goias-velho.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86Csnkm9OWSUHeoL3VI31HyxXOESmlRdKS-YlM2g8CHUZzjVrW9mmCai2eC1ykoHyBmKHvVyNhO9IziRZxUpS75QGfGB7GAbx2Z5k_GOpAhnd3cLjmTOZImYEM5y1Wboi-2L6TSTzZSs/s1600/goias-velho-_1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596743030242498610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86Csnkm9OWSUHeoL3VI31HyxXOESmlRdKS-YlM2g8CHUZzjVrW9mmCai2eC1ykoHyBmKHvVyNhO9IziRZxUpS75QGfGB7GAbx2Z5k_GOpAhnd3cLjmTOZImYEM5y1Wboi-2L6TSTzZSs/s400/goias-velho-_1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBsBvsVeVHwpA3iMndDhFLRC77T4Al7EAiyvFwnBKJ1zvYzlEm8Z8Wk8y8IeTrYeIcQ51dAfG-7xbtXJt3l7OkjMe_8Ng9_ucDMrqwX6tk_yS9Dw0BUxRgz1h8kygnCg-owCZT7P2WUkU/s1600/fogar%25C3%25A9us.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596742855184335298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBsBvsVeVHwpA3iMndDhFLRC77T4Al7EAiyvFwnBKJ1zvYzlEm8Z8Wk8y8IeTrYeIcQ51dAfG-7xbtXJt3l7OkjMe_8Ng9_ucDMrqwX6tk_yS9Dw0BUxRgz1h8kygnCg-owCZT7P2WUkU/s400/fogar%25C3%25A9us.jpg" border="0" /></a> <em><span style="font-size:85%;">Local artcrafts featuring religious characters are sold widely around town. These dolls are known as the fogaréus</span></em><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoF7va3G26wZOEOphR_ZmhAHvc7k51otlY7Tx2kOnM7N35EDZOjx-lvA8pARpSuHn75o2edKPlkKuBHS71tU49R3BcSvOKX1kwmWbI8TcLUS-cMGu82ugqQpr1DhVq7gyqskJIrCBXozU/s1600/cora-coralina-goias_10.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596742740440231106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoF7va3G26wZOEOphR_ZmhAHvc7k51otlY7Tx2kOnM7N35EDZOjx-lvA8pARpSuHn75o2edKPlkKuBHS71tU49R3BcSvOKX1kwmWbI8TcLUS-cMGu82ugqQpr1DhVq7gyqskJIrCBXozU/s400/cora-coralina-goias_10.jpg" border="0" /></a> Also, don´t miss a visit to the <strong>Casa de Cora Coralina</strong>, across a beautiful bridge. It used to be the poet´s home and is now a museum. To spend the night, although there´s no stylish or boutique hotel around town, try the <strong>Pousada do Ipê</strong> (<a href="http://www.pousadadoipego.com.br/">http://www.pousadadoipego.com.br/</a>) , well located in the center of town. Rustic and simple, it even has a swimming pool and it´s mentioned in the <em>Guide du Routard</em>, so you can trust it´s worthy.</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-7423378045290766862011-04-03T10:11:00.000-07:002011-04-03T10:33:03.676-07:00Maison d´Hôtes, blissfully unpeopled, as if you were in your own house.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUaVogdwFEOGTWQj_nW5rHyEuUEDvgRv5t2BJtHio_7pS92nQN0cQGapT3r6u-Mm2r5fsJayx20WzYLp_if50s3nphl-UueSgikaZGkPV93HYi-gQ_LKoViRBFVxRoUbhGiOUA7bHsx4/s1600/barCH.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591406947348955090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 335px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUaVogdwFEOGTWQj_nW5rHyEuUEDvgRv5t2BJtHio_7pS92nQN0cQGapT3r6u-Mm2r5fsJayx20WzYLp_if50s3nphl-UueSgikaZGkPV93HYi-gQ_LKoViRBFVxRoUbhGiOUA7bHsx4/s400/barCH.jpg" border="0" /></a> <strong><em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong> <br /><p>You really don´t have to stay in one of the expensive or tourist-trap hotels in Rio on your next visit. You may not have considered, but there are several other options off-the-beaten track which come in handy when you have no desire to melt your credit card: guest houses and hostels have been popping all over the scenery, offering cozy, intimate and luxurious accomodation within range of the city´s interesting places. </p><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtot_ier16amrlDiydl1sT0J3RItADkowe9lyAvPzAG5Ob40lMECL2xQdXIMOMRjF2eyY9spaNdq7oCXIcg9sVgIhmsqi5MMV0mPAan5_pyH9LrJfuG-cCl5QB6STowJXFa0pS0m3i5H4/s1600/entradaCH.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591406881832427938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 339px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtot_ier16amrlDiydl1sT0J3RItADkowe9lyAvPzAG5Ob40lMECL2xQdXIMOMRjF2eyY9spaNdq7oCXIcg9sVgIhmsqi5MMV0mPAan5_pyH9LrJfuG-cCl5QB6STowJXFa0pS0m3i5H4/s400/entradaCH.jpg" border="0" /></a> Although this alternative doesn´t come out cheap, it´s still a good choice. Because instead of being a tourist, you might prefer to feel like a local. And in your own house.</p><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKcb97QB37qMZoS0behckI3OdPi5lIOoFlExP2cSqrhvIqqhsGMDkXt79rgt8fOd7vDCnrXWW1fMXcAQBA6W2Q8cy28Oy5X3cDlqUVmlov0OHdkOpKt_SAzhbKdNM-KWcX9G8IFFlsKj0/s1600/IMG_3323.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591406816156272962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKcb97QB37qMZoS0behckI3OdPi5lIOoFlExP2cSqrhvIqqhsGMDkXt79rgt8fOd7vDCnrXWW1fMXcAQBA6W2Q8cy28Oy5X3cDlqUVmlov0OHdkOpKt_SAzhbKdNM-KWcX9G8IFFlsKj0/s400/IMG_3323.jpg" border="0" /></a> Last month I visited the Maison d´Hôtes ( Estrada das Canoas 2600 <a href="http://www.tuakasa.com.br/">http://www.tuakasa.com.br/</a>) in the neighborhood of São Conrado – very close to where I lived for most of my life, actually. The location, blissfully unpeopled, seems to be in the middle of nowhere, but even if you are an urbanite, the exciting sites are only ten minutes away by car. By coincidence, this exceptionally charming guesthouse belongs to a friend of mine. <br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDOiorlJ5lFh9gtTZplK90UdqwLuZFuAz3dlZ4URT1h5bcVHbdmqBCXqfWc-96S_wCsU1ZbMqsDEwQnS63uTFdA5VuUxZw5TqUEcpnFi4BIl3nDi8XpJcT3WsDeI7cn_bNVJik092aHBM/s1600/varandaCH.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591406694215573922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDOiorlJ5lFh9gtTZplK90UdqwLuZFuAz3dlZ4URT1h5bcVHbdmqBCXqfWc-96S_wCsU1ZbMqsDEwQnS63uTFdA5VuUxZw5TqUEcpnFi4BIl3nDi8XpJcT3WsDeI7cn_bNVJik092aHBM/s400/varandaCH.jpg" border="0" /></a> It was starting to pour heavily when I arrived at this spectacular house partly designed by well known brazilian architect Zanine. When Claudio Chagas Freitas met me at the gate, he was as surprised to see me as I was to meet again after more than three decades. Rio is a small town, we cariocas use to say. When you least expect, you bump into someone you´ve known as a teenager! <br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghKKpswAiUlwy-jLuZ-RkCiYWGOfZSE6YybGmds4bms0SZnP6tHFyVMk0XTiCGVdiKXgBjh9VRh5Hk_99AvsbrX9jjPrkZhtH2UhGrMobWi2qqe9fS3MXSRMNcVp7bFCg9uNbqiGC14SE/s1600/IMG_3313.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591406616533081602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghKKpswAiUlwy-jLuZ-RkCiYWGOfZSE6YybGmds4bms0SZnP6tHFyVMk0XTiCGVdiKXgBjh9VRh5Hk_99AvsbrX9jjPrkZhtH2UhGrMobWi2qqe9fS3MXSRMNcVp7bFCg9uNbqiGC14SE/s400/IMG_3313.jpg" border="0" /></a> Well, Claudio used to live in this beautiful three story house with his son Matteo. A few years ago, Matteo came back from Switzerland with a hotelier degree from one of the most prestigious schools. Of course, he had an idea in mind: to transform their home into a guest house. <br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlNboNpG9EiU8jPI_WJIdnw9H7yn9T34l3pay06NdFFBXf3HEtgriV0odpdbyAm_usre9JcsTXkGjj2l-21WtWlb3kPIA38k1BmQFB41Niz1tzHG3M_NpJa4acTu3ULfYEFjfbIIkCsw/s1600/26012011%2528001%2529.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591406535213165874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlNboNpG9EiU8jPI_WJIdnw9H7yn9T34l3pay06NdFFBXf3HEtgriV0odpdbyAm_usre9JcsTXkGjj2l-21WtWlb3kPIA38k1BmQFB41Niz1tzHG3M_NpJa4acTu3ULfYEFjfbIIkCsw/s400/26012011%2528001%2529.jpg" border="0" /></a> Needless to say that it took quite a lot of persistence and work to neatly refurbish what is now one of the most stylish hub for a tourist to entice his holiday in Rio. <br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiAL874s4uSkA6RjU6DiIvpH65NsD_9BMR8FnoBoIH0PyY5bzoJj62Ma4a1Oe1RvS7urVGIIBTR_lBWdnqEVxpsLebcXAZjLKzOYZLjoNy6pX7aX8FaDmKEL6h8R9ePFW6kd-Qg1_iHoE/s1600/IMG_3314.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591406403485951506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiAL874s4uSkA6RjU6DiIvpH65NsD_9BMR8FnoBoIH0PyY5bzoJj62Ma4a1Oe1RvS7urVGIIBTR_lBWdnqEVxpsLebcXAZjLKzOYZLjoNy6pX7aX8FaDmKEL6h8R9ePFW6kd-Qg1_iHoE/s400/IMG_3314.jpg" border="0" /></a> It´s intimacy in a luxurious setting is combined with incredibly comfortable suites . The hospitality, as if you were staying with pals, is provided by both father and son. <br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcxZZ360dncdggToLr2pS29WjhbmOz8wUsembZUgFr8707gMN0yi7zB5jNWOEhl0t6k_wEk21dzzHn5FDqmAqdjhLYNWTpLZUvY5WwgtuAqkzaOXAOA0_XigN3NYowQ_RW3kSqX3-CgsY/s1600/IMG_3318.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591406334382414274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcxZZ360dncdggToLr2pS29WjhbmOz8wUsembZUgFr8707gMN0yi7zB5jNWOEhl0t6k_wEk21dzzHn5FDqmAqdjhLYNWTpLZUvY5WwgtuAqkzaOXAOA0_XigN3NYowQ_RW3kSqX3-CgsY/s400/IMG_3318.jpg" border="0" /></a> But nothing can prepare you for the awesome views from the terrace over the Pedra da Gávea…It´s even more impressive during a thunderstorm… </div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /> </div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div></div></div></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-71310998362158584812011-03-05T15:42:00.000-08:002011-03-05T15:52:35.715-08:00Having fun with quads in Urubici, Brazil´s coldest region.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTYQdCmIrBzdt6MIXPMyb-Ucl3T4OFhsNk0nsLP5o7M_5VNem74mKSbwybv9eATZCJV4ufQWWUUoJqLIZnNb-_GWa46DM8Pv9gorX2qifTdsAQX2w8kEzIDLk4lE5fxADHuSm68tQ8JdE/s1600/IMG_3594.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580746141490713378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTYQdCmIrBzdt6MIXPMyb-Ucl3T4OFhsNk0nsLP5o7M_5VNem74mKSbwybv9eATZCJV4ufQWWUUoJqLIZnNb-_GWa46DM8Pv9gorX2qifTdsAQX2w8kEzIDLk4lE5fxADHuSm68tQ8JdE/s400/IMG_3594.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><strong><em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><br />You´ve probably thought that I´ve lost my compass in Santa Catarina and am still enjoying the blissful Ponta dos Ganchos´resort. Oh, well, I wish! But, although it´s not my purpose to let this blog go blank for so long, I´ve had internet problems which didn´t allow me to connect and post anything for you.<br /><br />So, here I am, but not far from Florianópolis, Santa Catarina´s capital. Actually, from the sea we continued our trip towards the mountain range of Boqueirão, 174 km southwards. The roads were good, and gradually we felt that the temperature was getting lower by the minute.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi55wMPFPX7y1ciykIm9fX3TKn2sJXINBgEcj5hDYEJf8ljCo_R5XgtCS_zqKngPh6jQ8XGgQF_nJ1VXJN4D_mL4wDFog1yPNdY70vrNlhFZyv9DSml_oQvTEin1dVvKxP9pWjPeuPsRWw/s1600/IMG_3584.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580746058256732946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi55wMPFPX7y1ciykIm9fX3TKn2sJXINBgEcj5hDYEJf8ljCo_R5XgtCS_zqKngPh6jQ8XGgQF_nJ1VXJN4D_mL4wDFog1yPNdY70vrNlhFZyv9DSml_oQvTEin1dVvKxP9pWjPeuPsRWw/s400/IMG_3584.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_xOTRLBAiuJGodX-ngCJ6psAy4nAS449M0CTwYInFQrZhRUWEaiVufKayEZuv2ftxVdIG40eg0apAlRd5VVsGIg2D5zeTuK5TMZE2k-j4erhtePQOQUyJKuz3GPK3ztmDMcbag5oZyaE/s1600/IMG_3600.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580746001431828482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_xOTRLBAiuJGodX-ngCJ6psAy4nAS449M0CTwYInFQrZhRUWEaiVufKayEZuv2ftxVdIG40eg0apAlRd5VVsGIg2D5zeTuK5TMZE2k-j4erhtePQOQUyJKuz3GPK3ztmDMcbag5oZyaE/s400/IMG_3600.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Landscapes renowned as “european regions” are common along the way, as German, Swiss and eastern European immigrants came by the thousands before, during and after WW2. They chose the highest peaks of the Serra do Mar to install their homes and business, where the cooler climate and the vegetation reminded them of their hometown. Local gastronomy and architecture are by far the most characteristic of these foreign cultures.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeP2rIC5nFtwJQaJnjOS_IDCjuE4K2udq00_Yk4DXwEAdCvB_J2Yo71NMxHUVwyKmKYQNq0ppVe9LLi0k4hfLmHdzuSmT58qkoEUI_V-kHkMKAorGVQSVwqnhl8grnf4qMOyKKW8jTWo/s1600/IMG_3579.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580745921167069138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeP2rIC5nFtwJQaJnjOS_IDCjuE4K2udq00_Yk4DXwEAdCvB_J2Yo71NMxHUVwyKmKYQNq0ppVe9LLi0k4hfLmHdzuSmT58qkoEUI_V-kHkMKAorGVQSVwqnhl8grnf4qMOyKKW8jTWo/s400/IMG_3579.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />When we reached our destiny, Urubici - where temperatures are known to dive down to minus 17 in winter time- our coats were already out of the suitcase.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxfMDGGFJsY2K8XwZFtE0yDDZXG3iBkz3oTFreRToG2HE3Pwe4B7Z1N82PY6fy0PBon8KJSepDcheW0mz_l1rYDB3catxz6kS1Yg-Iu6RQggxa1cG8N0VgG9rwS3rNsdr5jNTTjKPvdu4/s1600/IMG_3588.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580745867272331938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxfMDGGFJsY2K8XwZFtE0yDDZXG3iBkz3oTFreRToG2HE3Pwe4B7Z1N82PY6fy0PBon8KJSepDcheW0mz_l1rYDB3catxz6kS1Yg-Iu6RQggxa1cG8N0VgG9rwS3rNsdr5jNTTjKPvdu4/s400/IMG_3588.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAdLDdGgUheREZ9FNWrGfgebb7zYmiSdq8O769TKu3c7lI1kDqbS7VlByR_7mEajWP_sHojEYUTBXcBGwMX2XccYS4Wm5eZKR6yAooLUbteeso_nA8y5d3iV44kk9vDd9OgNPbOL8Qews/s1600/IMG_3602.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580745804201546754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAdLDdGgUheREZ9FNWrGfgebb7zYmiSdq8O769TKu3c7lI1kDqbS7VlByR_7mEajWP_sHojEYUTBXcBGwMX2XccYS4Wm5eZKR6yAooLUbteeso_nA8y5d3iV44kk9vDd9OgNPbOL8Qews/s400/IMG_3602.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />We had an adventurous weekend to look forward to, which was driving quads all around the countryside, which is dotted by pine trees, green meadows, scenic canyons, waterfalls and rivers. Remote farmhouses don´t get more rural than those through which we drove past. The most astonishing views were, unfortunately, covered by fog and heavy clouds.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzyvFYbSB-JjmGWd9kd6W28IpTsrnk9_sKoYhP55dgNyxvyK3aHFEjXWWVpR7x5KQx2qworERYkv3kbc9UM-9fOH7RcKSQkUJUWe1Se5wo2RVzV2v9-Y-mGdmVDG3HaUBOR7sEIOhfnjE/s1600/IMG_3581.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580745733387311170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzyvFYbSB-JjmGWd9kd6W28IpTsrnk9_sKoYhP55dgNyxvyK3aHFEjXWWVpR7x5KQx2qworERYkv3kbc9UM-9fOH7RcKSQkUJUWe1Se5wo2RVzV2v9-Y-mGdmVDG3HaUBOR7sEIOhfnjE/s400/IMG_3581.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA739hBzwQYeW7nMciwRESB-xOa7LRy1Qp6DXsB70hw1thtW53ozKcjjQCNUxpC7zEaDDpJbBSw6T74XuJ65wKu1lmGZAdcInMYsrFTDiDQKFOwZok9u0cNNeWw0CRxjXvSpqub7kgNZg/s1600/IMG_3591.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580745679517462306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA739hBzwQYeW7nMciwRESB-xOa7LRy1Qp6DXsB70hw1thtW53ozKcjjQCNUxpC7zEaDDpJbBSw6T74XuJ65wKu1lmGZAdcInMYsrFTDiDQKFOwZok9u0cNNeWw0CRxjXvSpqub7kgNZg/s400/IMG_3591.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirzUlC55IpyKcFvDsKQQDS_PAfsLvF71uo8DfvKl_NwcvHEDpp6naMpzBm2xjI_eGtzSaShBScMMY6c2oY8tALUWI-89UwJNUz-_kprP7Y1nToEopJdhTWzkKJeQdlRjsj9WiYPo7li6E/s1600/IMG_3604-2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580745611075035698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirzUlC55IpyKcFvDsKQQDS_PAfsLvF71uo8DfvKl_NwcvHEDpp6naMpzBm2xjI_eGtzSaShBScMMY6c2oY8tALUWI-89UwJNUz-_kprP7Y1nToEopJdhTWzkKJeQdlRjsj9WiYPo7li6E/s400/IMG_3604-2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />As I said, we were driving 4x4 quads, which can climb or slide down, well, whatever crosses your mind. In fact, we were on a off-road adventure, but nothing to be fearful about: anyone with a bit of common sense and ability can drive those powerful machines.I tried not be haunted by the memory of incidents and took it quite naturally that we were just soaked to the bone when it started to rain seriously. It didn´t spoil our day, but surely spoiled my pictures. So, I won´t have so many to post, but I can guarantee that next quad trip will be during a dry period.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInrk1jdFIs4xHvPiReW_Byr5qMQ7Nkbqd3UixUnvDM5CfMelJyEqiF8QrSY3Nv2fhaKN6RnjPWkgFNEJAjTiEE1X9tifevUaIuQdh0J-cVlUCLs4-0ty4XJop2ZWH9Kh1A8SP64gPC6o/s1600/IMG_3582.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580745538868287666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInrk1jdFIs4xHvPiReW_Byr5qMQ7Nkbqd3UixUnvDM5CfMelJyEqiF8QrSY3Nv2fhaKN6RnjPWkgFNEJAjTiEE1X9tifevUaIuQdh0J-cVlUCLs4-0ty4XJop2ZWH9Kh1A8SP64gPC6o/s400/IMG_3582.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />My friends, the owners of quad tour operator Trip Tur ( <a href="http://www.triptur.com.br/">www.triptur.com.br</a>) are planning great expeditions, day trips and adventures for 2011, so if you are keen to face some challenge, and experience new sensations, you should check what´s the best option for you. No experience needed, only a way to manage a few drops of adrenaline in your mind.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" onclick="return addthis_sendto()" onmouseout="addthis_close()" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-69430504242320148942011-02-15T17:59:00.000-08:002011-02-16T10:32:18.150-08:00Ponta dos Ganchos : a treat in heaven<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNVbN4jvnhGHO8Tptr4c_kxRJfu1C2MgcH4NFUjQjS_wUO5TWpavI6J-okrz-pBvEf_0kEdrPhFSVxjE_zB4luJrPKsfxySvffGJPWO6eRJ9dOSCmgLNeTTFDRVWuYBqVrjVK0RENBmI4/s1600/detalhe-da-ilhota.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574102770045696274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNVbN4jvnhGHO8Tptr4c_kxRJfu1C2MgcH4NFUjQjS_wUO5TWpavI6J-okrz-pBvEf_0kEdrPhFSVxjE_zB4luJrPKsfxySvffGJPWO6eRJ9dOSCmgLNeTTFDRVWuYBqVrjVK0RENBmI4/s400/detalhe-da-ilhota.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong><em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><br />You would need to split your day hourly in 24 and keep a watch on time if you´d have to linger over every little bit of Ponta dos Ganchos. And I am serious: this hotel, tucked high up at the far end of a fisherman village called Ganchos, less than an hour from Florianópolis´airport, is a tiny sample of what paradise should look like. Even more: it´s how you´d probably expect to be treated once in heaven.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn7CxsNxd7_Mqs3_fOsJbf4pF-uW3uBImcHTDlYcPOwqTvQs3nOytlZ6KN6kllC93vPaE84w4GNLb1zGm31McQq8mUpZtK8mTt0qRi8plHiQupdSjvGZ3Ph8eJWCCThxrmtpphZm-eIgU/s1600/IMG_3513.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574102673074216594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn7CxsNxd7_Mqs3_fOsJbf4pF-uW3uBImcHTDlYcPOwqTvQs3nOytlZ6KN6kllC93vPaE84w4GNLb1zGm31McQq8mUpZtK8mTt0qRi8plHiQupdSjvGZ3Ph8eJWCCThxrmtpphZm-eIgU/s400/IMG_3513.jpg" border="0" /></a> Besides being a rich relaxation experience, you´ll feel impossibly pampered from the moment you set foot in this gorgeous setting, surrounded by private luxurious suites which feature… – don´t try to guess, as I´ll tell you soon enough. With a tag of Relais & Chateaux, and a Virtuoso label, nothing is best than the best for the guest.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMGKtbzO0f0ICy4g4DZgfu1jt_DJ7gkXzB6reNOc9CvWQKRwTx5nqVmH6ZAPaEETRHl4_kvTAZMSP7w5Z324hz1TW6SV6cnH72ksU2KARZWWCnMlQ5WEU2Asw6byVkrVkRLxvP4A9BWqA/s1600/IMG_3494.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574102574660628802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMGKtbzO0f0ICy4g4DZgfu1jt_DJ7gkXzB6reNOc9CvWQKRwTx5nqVmH6ZAPaEETRHl4_kvTAZMSP7w5Z324hz1TW6SV6cnH72ksU2KARZWWCnMlQ5WEU2Asw6byVkrVkRLxvP4A9BWqA/s400/IMG_3494.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />So, the Ponta dos Ganchos was the place I elected as the best to celebrate, erh, our 32 years of togetherness. It really deserved to be special. But nothing could prepare us for being treated like celebrities in this stylish environment .<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2u-qAK4bCP3uqE-933-nOL_IDvve-Di4HdWoWrP8oRq-AKpQqoa4awe1bn5J_YJwcTErKshYkfkDoUMzwFeI8ToHdzBcOFSO3dvr2sg9y3uQ0lW3g-r4TozXN-2XBZQn8WW79QWKLXlo/s1600/barco-de-pescador.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574102510131756930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2u-qAK4bCP3uqE-933-nOL_IDvve-Di4HdWoWrP8oRq-AKpQqoa4awe1bn5J_YJwcTErKshYkfkDoUMzwFeI8ToHdzBcOFSO3dvr2sg9y3uQ0lW3g-r4TozXN-2XBZQn8WW79QWKLXlo/s400/barco-de-pescador.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The place is, you´ve guessed right, an exclusive retreat, with a dashing assemblage of scenic views – our suite had the most amazing one cascading into the sea, dotted with colored fishermen´s personal nets – high end gastronomy – Chef Laurent Suadeau is one of the consultants - and the best equipped accommodations ever.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNrNM9qyeOfsCEb8CHsKOwKk_8yPJn6L_L0dUe1Mv72GuBtAbKowZfTIXHn8r-aUNMV7IAdOCLfgp8z2ioWiyBRWMF-BVdOmHf-eU9hkBkVHx-PJY56Hz9SfAU6-92JFXPcfHB9htErgg/s1600/IMG_3498.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574102399577794514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNrNM9qyeOfsCEb8CHsKOwKk_8yPJn6L_L0dUe1Mv72GuBtAbKowZfTIXHn8r-aUNMV7IAdOCLfgp8z2ioWiyBRWMF-BVdOmHf-eU9hkBkVHx-PJY56Hz9SfAU6-92JFXPcfHB9htErgg/s400/IMG_3498.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />We had, in approximately 230sq meters, nothing less than a king size bed, a private sauna, a Jacuzzi, two showers, two bathrooms with l´Occitanne amenities, a terrace with a couch, a small infinite pool (heated, if you´d just turn on the button) and lounging chairs. We were surrounded by dozens of towels, robes, a nespresso machine, a mini bar free of charge for non-alcoholic beverages plus snacks, a fireplace (the State of Santa Catarina can easily offer alpine temperatures in winter months) a comfy couch to watch movies or tv on a 50” flat screen… everything spread around strategically, not to mention the bottle of Imperial Brut in a bucket full of ice, offered on our arrival.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSuldJ0RDakJjw3ks-Pqh_IQmxkhQJMzX4BtD4ynmgaQr1kXo9x0gtPQd88FZpaeVb0eg2uHqXtzyeuRCwAft3eO0S-SnpO9_1GFjWgp23C4d_0j1KOvNOdHqiDu-iIwYdobLib22U32U/s1600/IMG_3578.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574102249576136130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSuldJ0RDakJjw3ks-Pqh_IQmxkhQJMzX4BtD4ynmgaQr1kXo9x0gtPQd88FZpaeVb0eg2uHqXtzyeuRCwAft3eO0S-SnpO9_1GFjWgp23C4d_0j1KOvNOdHqiDu-iIwYdobLib22U32U/s400/IMG_3578.jpg" border="0" /></a> To stroll around the resort, we either walked the pathways or called the golf cart to pick us up. It happened twice as summer storms caught us by surprise right after lunch on one day and right before the siesta on the small private beach, the next afternoon. Yet barely a stone´s throw from our bungalow, someone quickly appeared to rescue us back to number 23 of the new wing of luxurious accommodations.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4heySMXVY7UICJw4IgEcXn8bKcemknp6yPg26ReliamWFpBhnGTGDfcMqvtkfTEv2iVm4USaQFjKQ3kTP-KYpW7D0Wcs0e1FSEV2zq86OdQynIWfI_4CR-HDpDeoEhYqpktj72f3QgT0/s1600/mimo-no-cafe-com-leite-detalhe.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574102100929572306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4heySMXVY7UICJw4IgEcXn8bKcemknp6yPg26ReliamWFpBhnGTGDfcMqvtkfTEv2iVm4USaQFjKQ3kTP-KYpW7D0Wcs0e1FSEV2zq86OdQynIWfI_4CR-HDpDeoEhYqpktj72f3QgT0/s400/mimo-no-cafe-com-leite-detalhe.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />We sure missed a couple of sunset, unfortunately. Dark clouds didn´t seem to leave the area, and although we had a glimpse of white sand while chasing some beams of sun on the following morning, the weather wasn´t terrific. But, as you may conclude, the Ponta dos Ganchos isn´t the sort of hotel where you get bored if you are “ stuck” in your room. And also, there´s a Dior Spa to invigorate your spirit on a rainy afternoon. Massages, treatments…Oh, well, I know, tell me, it´s tiring to live like royalty.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjJSRXE4JIDpTSw-VEPEjCHDBqSjvMI80uiUXvXoiL_Zx8Uy48zGJVQEKXdkcxFkxWBgWf_DCPWAeZM8vwb5R-gMjPvFvvApWMUpTYUMOXw2rkzrtaTXu-mC7ymBELc9ehWBIT0uL51YI/s1600/IMG_3497-2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574101943010493522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjJSRXE4JIDpTSw-VEPEjCHDBqSjvMI80uiUXvXoiL_Zx8Uy48zGJVQEKXdkcxFkxWBgWf_DCPWAeZM8vwb5R-gMjPvFvvApWMUpTYUMOXw2rkzrtaTXu-mC7ymBELc9ehWBIT0uL51YI/s400/IMG_3497-2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />But I could easily get used - or should I say addicted? - to it. Needless to say that we did manage to combine several activities with this romantic escapade. A nice guided walk to a nearby deserted beach, a boat ride on an authentic fisherman´s boat to explore the region and observe the oysters and clam´s local breeding, as well as kayaking, all organized within the premises.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigB0eW4vTzNBxOmXAUCxtmk5nM0y3Y8PKmediVPGo5TU-ZUD6N3t1M03miu2Mi-f_uojupa8N7gcqmFblXeXbvFvuRdKvzFNbrL-PYMb6mT-vtUoEyvKg1-U0w2QPTFdwnaTfKt2_PZqk/s1600/IMG_3495.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574101829365892258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigB0eW4vTzNBxOmXAUCxtmk5nM0y3Y8PKmediVPGo5TU-ZUD6N3t1M03miu2Mi-f_uojupa8N7gcqmFblXeXbvFvuRdKvzFNbrL-PYMb6mT-vtUoEyvKg1-U0w2QPTFdwnaTfKt2_PZqk/s400/IMG_3495.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCKIY0ELoYHoHOFcbrucgv_1hSd47yJKdXCLQpR_f38g0P-40UkibMbmSTuYygqIlziS0990yox2KO0v4EwBAoTwH3B039A3Efe4i41s54aPI-_6-daNZpKuk512T5ZdGXyb-ZcV4bII/s1600/cafe-da-manha-ovo-de-codorna-frito-em-canape.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574101761454788450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCKIY0ELoYHoHOFcbrucgv_1hSd47yJKdXCLQpR_f38g0P-40UkibMbmSTuYygqIlziS0990yox2KO0v4EwBAoTwH3B039A3Efe4i41s54aPI-_6-daNZpKuk512T5ZdGXyb-ZcV4bII/s400/cafe-da-manha-ovo-de-codorna-frito-em-canape.jpg" border="0" /></a> Check this out: miniature benedict egg for breakfast, followed, combined or along with a choice of nine other little dishes among bread, hot and cold sandwiches, yogurts...Sophistication and presentation are present in every meal, besides surprising guests by "engraving" their names with chocolate on the coffee. Causing emotion is a key factor in the immaculate service.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBtq-eQ9hKy2pks5HjZu0H2BjV4Jab4cY3xO6snz4c6B00Bd7P-YUj-2XsoPNqU8s4YxR07-BBGSVS-01noLEGY0bFwktMx1WOkhS88-4nI_qn1-qqr-SGBbMKEp7G_abuU7l7gvcy0g0/s1600/pescador-de-guardasol-em-viveiro-de-mariscos.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574101660418684178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBtq-eQ9hKy2pks5HjZu0H2BjV4Jab4cY3xO6snz4c6B00Bd7P-YUj-2XsoPNqU8s4YxR07-BBGSVS-01noLEGY0bFwktMx1WOkhS88-4nI_qn1-qqr-SGBbMKEp7G_abuU7l7gvcy0g0/s400/pescador-de-guardasol-em-viveiro-de-mariscos.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Maybe in the near future the Ponta dos Ganchos will be the destination on everybody´s lips – though I would prefer to keep this gem to myself – but right now it´s an ideal and year-round serene destination, a stylish paradise with perfect service, known to those people who have the talent to concoct all these ingredients of hospitality with the art of choosing well.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiykYa2XlM7VE835W-MWuAnPAPdZQhRPegEYEFxPQH4CDdtSrlDymC8CwLSZqdig4t-zQqXHGEmwirtHhTd8bOubWXuUXlA31Se-Z7j6vJJOfrwMp3KHF39Nx66D8f3Yq2S2P9zPFOQpEQ/s1600/pescador-cuidando-da-criacao-de-mariscos.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574101484454395970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiykYa2XlM7VE835W-MWuAnPAPdZQhRPegEYEFxPQH4CDdtSrlDymC8CwLSZqdig4t-zQqXHGEmwirtHhTd8bOubWXuUXlA31Se-Z7j6vJJOfrwMp3KHF39Nx66D8f3Yq2S2P9zPFOQpEQ/s400/pescador-cuidando-da-criacao-de-mariscos.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Ponta dos Ganchos<br /><a href="http://www.pontadosganchos.com.br/">http://www.pontadosganchos.com.br/</a><br />tel. 48 3262 5000<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" onclick="return addthis_sendto()" onmouseout="addthis_close()" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-44506084839902750782011-02-01T10:23:00.000-08:002011-02-01T10:39:17.489-08:00Le Relais de Marambaia : a room with a view – the best in Rio – far from the madding crowd!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5oLAvA3L0g1JPiXvnhF-Kh0Qc09xuTe2l8_qQwmaAtPbEHn7d2-WM8jFlRogqsT5dvU9x4xj_ziA35k50hl-CYlYsNCfo3ZkWuYQQF6l0eCDl-YhPK-9A4lIC82HpcYcjmwGewnQ-xvo/s1600/DSC03921-%255BResolu%25C3%25A7%25C3%25A3o-do-desktop%255D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568789389140969186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5oLAvA3L0g1JPiXvnhF-Kh0Qc09xuTe2l8_qQwmaAtPbEHn7d2-WM8jFlRogqsT5dvU9x4xj_ziA35k50hl-CYlYsNCfo3ZkWuYQQF6l0eCDl-YhPK-9A4lIC82HpcYcjmwGewnQ-xvo/s400/DSC03921-%255BResolu%25C3%25A7%25C3%25A3o-do-desktop%255D.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong><em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><br />Few places in Rio reveal such a magnificent view as the one from Le Relais de Marambaia´s five exclusive suites. The caveat is its location, tucked-away in Pedra de Guaratiba, a neighborhood which is only 20-some kilometers away from Leblon, but quite a burden to reach if you are caught in heavy traffic jam. The area nearby is also home to the famous gardens of Roberto Burle Marx. So get ready to enjoy more than an overnight stay.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj62G8RZ08ss8F0hJiuig9ji36DmDlnRu6iUYrwXuTUyh7XiuVj3hhxJMjSQ7RpU_OsWOUJRVs674-ljalYc71x8yItDhAuJm2VZ_1gcj6_XmLchIxQrQj-8KNeIwR8KQZCfHZ0Fvcs8Q4/s1600/IMG_3464.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568789331443298786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj62G8RZ08ss8F0hJiuig9ji36DmDlnRu6iUYrwXuTUyh7XiuVj3hhxJMjSQ7RpU_OsWOUJRVs674-ljalYc71x8yItDhAuJm2VZ_1gcj6_XmLchIxQrQj-8KNeIwR8KQZCfHZ0Fvcs8Q4/s400/IMG_3464.jpg" border="0" /></a> But, if you are smart, schedule your departure (from any place in town) before three o´clock in the afternoon, so you´ll get there earlier than I did and nothing can prepare you for the stunning sunset which can be admired from the swimming pool as well as from the terrace of your comfortable suite.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnZJq1QV8oqUm9sIyXBNZ2AV5Dw-keS7PIUCQgeVUBt5m2wf0kTuJ-yGOuNsmgg2BTcTagBGEkqTrC9-nAT0XolHCJ0VuZ1Zx5ySo6Mxqoo0i0GaYfW1qfNhO4mBUy4WmK6H7Std2DI0o/s1600/DSC03893-%255B1600x1200%255D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568789273719060482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnZJq1QV8oqUm9sIyXBNZ2AV5Dw-keS7PIUCQgeVUBt5m2wf0kTuJ-yGOuNsmgg2BTcTagBGEkqTrC9-nAT0XolHCJ0VuZ1Zx5ySo6Mxqoo0i0GaYfW1qfNhO4mBUy4WmK6H7Std2DI0o/s400/DSC03893-%255B1600x1200%255D.jpg" border="0" /></a> I was itching to get there and planned an escape in the middle of the week, in order to enjoy this sun + relaxation program with my husband. Although we missed the best part, we could still relax with a couple of caipirinhas in our hand. The nice kiwi and passion fruit drinks were delicious and therefore we could recover our energy and consider tasting a menu featuring seasonal produce – shrimp, fish, crab…<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefpXfySpHam0LqUTp6Tb40LlXeADDtIQqNZu8tlz7WnWD5c5WJARuq5FHrV4FsAAtmJWZhwW9h9-wTJ-TCpnN7qS3dcuSRfcldekEaKUtELt20Q96aJxrctaoOnTHYzOBLZL170P09yU/s1600/IMG_3463.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568789172506057266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefpXfySpHam0LqUTp6Tb40LlXeADDtIQqNZu8tlz7WnWD5c5WJARuq5FHrV4FsAAtmJWZhwW9h9-wTJ-TCpnN7qS3dcuSRfcldekEaKUtELt20Q96aJxrctaoOnTHYzOBLZL170P09yU/s400/IMG_3463.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />An ideal year-round destination, the Relais de Marambaia is one of the many guesthouses which opened in Rio lately. It belongs to a French citizen and is run by his charming niece, Alexandra, who cares for every detail in the house, which is as stylish as a boutique hotel can be – king sized beds with white linen and fluffy robes, Occitane ammenities, wide TV screens, DVD´s, Perrier bottles in the mini bar and walk in showers for two. Some even have a jacuzzi. She also looks after her guests as if they were old-time friends.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxblGIBZo19bfoDdKImBHafu3GP2f4ydt43l-2UPqsV45wLK2ru8XQzYkoxuvcaJAKA7rbY2VsscE9vqy6hqCsTQBa3SYYnybbRbcaHj6BsLkNhjHiKBapTamQGhZJvi94j4DUw8Wp7k/s1600/IMG_1656-%255B1600x1200%255D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568788997347614338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxblGIBZo19bfoDdKImBHafu3GP2f4ydt43l-2UPqsV45wLK2ru8XQzYkoxuvcaJAKA7rbY2VsscE9vqy6hqCsTQBa3SYYnybbRbcaHj6BsLkNhjHiKBapTamQGhZJvi94j4DUw8Wp7k/s400/IMG_1656-%255B1600x1200%255D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />A recent makeover turned le Relais into a refuge for couples in search of a romantic overnight stay, as well as foreign tourists who want to run away from Rio´s madding crowd. You do, indeed, have the best view from every angle of the guesthouse, as there is a 60 kilometers´stretch of sand splashed right in front, known as the Restinga de Marambaia. Unfortunately, it´s inaccessible to anyone except the military, reason for this area to remain immaculate and untouched. You may swim right there and nearby, but you can´t set foot on the beach. <br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5KVE8bHQeTZTL77yEW_qH4sn8yC6CnYZpy-XOSW5Lkgk9nV41_bCRW9ixFeSwIXy561tUQ6O4IF10TdZ3SYzZO5-c-kIeflS5VwtpbP6RHW-NZj59aB1yLF5BqxdUJiNWdg_ohNKcP4s/s1600/DSC03766.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568788921299978834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 230px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 307px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5KVE8bHQeTZTL77yEW_qH4sn8yC6CnYZpy-XOSW5Lkgk9nV41_bCRW9ixFeSwIXy561tUQ6O4IF10TdZ3SYzZO5-c-kIeflS5VwtpbP6RHW-NZj59aB1yLF5BqxdUJiNWdg_ohNKcP4s/s400/DSC03766.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />But ( and a big BUT) Alexandra invites her guests to explore similar (and hidden) gems like this one, deserted beaches which are nestled around the area. Simply board one of the fishermen´s boats, which can be hired right in loco, and go for a little ride. These beaches are only reached by sea or hiking. So, for sure, you´ll feel like Robinson Crusoe…<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYvzm0FrqbIsGm_6ZSQlZG7TOqc0F64k0IKxQiPCpTn0SH9cAgmWzKtBKTzkkmnexCd7x44p2aEBBnk_L0vQGSFoRAPwWoHdCzxibp_iNnarmav-uAinX0zacwD-8US4gg0gOSw4uFFE/s1600/IMG_3456.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568788860547901794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYvzm0FrqbIsGm_6ZSQlZG7TOqc0F64k0IKxQiPCpTn0SH9cAgmWzKtBKTzkkmnexCd7x44p2aEBBnk_L0vQGSFoRAPwWoHdCzxibp_iNnarmav-uAinX0zacwD-8US4gg0gOSw4uFFE/s400/IMG_3456.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Le Relais de Marambaia</div><div>Estrada Roberto Burle Marx 9346</div><div><a href="http://www.lerelaisdemarambaia.com.br/">www.lerelaisdemarambaia.com.br</a></div><div>tel. 5521 23942544</div><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> </div><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" onclick="return addthis_sendto()" onmouseout="addthis_close()" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-21716240877542097752011-01-16T15:22:00.000-08:002011-01-16T15:46:09.741-08:00Tibau do Sul, a place to call your own<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWnj0xJoQ5eUlV84gHlGIRDrns8tnhh0YEh3jEQqEDy4hlRGZVXH6Akbg7oyWoe-kHirEhd1qi56m7PkEArTKdCoRuEaeuQ8MNkp1HrqoSTszpp8ky7SzcfF5DfL1K5CwqPU3CPJreic/s1600/IMG_2908.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562929502159041682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWnj0xJoQ5eUlV84gHlGIRDrns8tnhh0YEh3jEQqEDy4hlRGZVXH6Akbg7oyWoe-kHirEhd1qi56m7PkEArTKdCoRuEaeuQ8MNkp1HrqoSTszpp8ky7SzcfF5DfL1K5CwqPU3CPJreic/s400/IMG_2908.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong><em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><br />As I told you before New Year´s Eve, I was going to hide myself in one of those special hubs of the northeast, a place called Tibau do Sul.<br />Since the last decade, I´ve been coming to this hidden gem where you are bound to find deserted beaches even during high season and holidays.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxkPUZTaQ_2YYHLUiwSPkbyuf1aTLHc8bMLomvJ7TMvVc1OSrmzx5WZqyM0Pouxalb4ZmRET10Xxz4KA-DpEOEKTPYZ1fHh_BW_4g6IQGqUDBdhWnPsEAwEgCMsgP270iT8USvvXiXbgA/s1600/IMG_2844.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562929391722467506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxkPUZTaQ_2YYHLUiwSPkbyuf1aTLHc8bMLomvJ7TMvVc1OSrmzx5WZqyM0Pouxalb4ZmRET10Xxz4KA-DpEOEKTPYZ1fHh_BW_4g6IQGqUDBdhWnPsEAwEgCMsgP270iT8USvvXiXbgA/s400/IMG_2844.jpg" border="0" /></a> Considering that I wanted to break my city-style routine, Tibau do Sul has a clutch of luxurious attributes, such as no routine, to begin with. And no internet around, too.<br />Next, you become an early bird even if this doesn´t appetize you. The breeze crossing leisurely across the coconut leaves sounds like a wake up call - and music along the day.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBrhMpyQW5OaHOrDb59EPwWreOJTMtrBF67kbWkcXTQsAHkB8C1ecd0oelYpXPv1sYu00WqIdXYBkyGSekIrRFfR9CChgVApF70f2gN_yRydF_YDwQDrsi1zqUCjh4HUtqkraO_A2Fso0/s1600/IMG_2916.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562929333473157346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBrhMpyQW5OaHOrDb59EPwWreOJTMtrBF67kbWkcXTQsAHkB8C1ecd0oelYpXPv1sYu00WqIdXYBkyGSekIrRFfR9CChgVApF70f2gN_yRydF_YDwQDrsi1zqUCjh4HUtqkraO_A2Fso0/s400/IMG_2916.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Breakfast with an overview – the sea, the skyline of sandy beaches in the horizon, the blue sea, the mood of the tide…Then a stroll in the village, with a shopping list – what are we having for lunch??? Check with the fisherman´s stock, right across the bakery.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumxA54dKKsjSAIdcpXqqsndiHh3W0qFm3OhZFD4I9Y6iwBietrLOfLeBV_IpDlka0W7x2AevfDwVUntrDFMxWLVU0Fwdp2bF7yOaT2NASTXka0XvL0UscaLrtg3jdtaps4WMbVQAQnl0/s1600/IMG_3025-%25282%2529.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562929278555285090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumxA54dKKsjSAIdcpXqqsndiHh3W0qFm3OhZFD4I9Y6iwBietrLOfLeBV_IpDlka0W7x2AevfDwVUntrDFMxWLVU0Fwdp2bF7yOaT2NASTXka0XvL0UscaLrtg3jdtaps4WMbVQAQnl0/s400/IMG_3025-%25282%2529.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />When the tide starts to get lower, natural small swimming pools form all along the shore. The water is translucid. You just have to dip in it, with a book in your hand, tons of sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and soak in the warmth of the rays.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-49QQQ-6hUngrkGCicEw8R4TaVluU8Zr7P7uGnnl7wmyGdExT-ne0pEPR52NX0Aja1IDZTaakTo5Kfom1on4Px8TNGAoFlhlmu2eK-fKce924_Ly6YXfURuFk0FAQ3Jhzd74lGdlz-DE/s1600/IMG_2847.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562929199781112258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-49QQQ-6hUngrkGCicEw8R4TaVluU8Zr7P7uGnnl7wmyGdExT-ne0pEPR52NX0Aja1IDZTaakTo5Kfom1on4Px8TNGAoFlhlmu2eK-fKce924_Ly6YXfURuFk0FAQ3Jhzd74lGdlz-DE/s400/IMG_2847.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />If you´re the sportive kind of guy, then get ready to surf among dolphins in the Praia do Madeiro, test your skills with a paddle on stand-up boards on the lagoon, go for a horseriding adventure on the beach, challenge your fear by being a passenger on a parapente experience – the professional who will be piloting is an expert, so don’t worry….Or just hire a buggy and explore the surrounding beaches, either by going north or south on the dunes and sand. No toll road in these itineraries.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcjMPsDtvT31yGe-8I0c8TzYVQT2UHniBpdcBW4dDYXdSVXViDZ9A6MHHWQPpSLGWQ0r_giWEu_9SBxFGlGfMC5Bxqb1ulkfyagmJJ0vmpyW7CRn_ZddoSWtMx-iJfRk8c4hu_-ilV6hY/s1600/IMG_2930-%25282%2529.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562928985009449138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcjMPsDtvT31yGe-8I0c8TzYVQT2UHniBpdcBW4dDYXdSVXViDZ9A6MHHWQPpSLGWQ0r_giWEu_9SBxFGlGfMC5Bxqb1ulkfyagmJJ0vmpyW7CRn_ZddoSWtMx-iJfRk8c4hu_-ilV6hY/s400/IMG_2930-%25282%2529.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />And as far as food is concerned, you shall spoil yourself rotten on fresh produce from the sea, plus coconut water, capirinhas, cold beer and fusion food in many restaurants of nearby Pipa. This fishermen´s village was once what Tibau used to be, but lost its tranquility to fancy hotels, fashionable tourism and rock´n roll.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXlkN6JJxZH15ZamalO-Ju5sOdtTL-XLjiQHJErAJ9con_QL7DP2GLYJ4JDG-lVyE98atWigWKdg17YFfd2HJv1PlO49Z75K8bRuFm_nVZ31yaz1e_4j56QvteclDhEUhyphenhyphenipMtk24mXvU/s1600/IMG_2870.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562928908363282162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXlkN6JJxZH15ZamalO-Ju5sOdtTL-XLjiQHJErAJ9con_QL7DP2GLYJ4JDG-lVyE98atWigWKdg17YFfd2HJv1PlO49Z75K8bRuFm_nVZ31yaz1e_4j56QvteclDhEUhyphenhyphenipMtk24mXvU/s400/IMG_2870.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />On the other hand, expect to eat well and choose from Thai to tapas, including French, Italian, Peruvian, and, naturally, regional potiguar (originally from Rio do Grande do Norte state) specialities. <br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6GsWSq8Q1qObEgHw8k4dbOK03OzYhFIw6jS9qRTLaW9SrXjQRrQWaXE0x8Bi4QRmt72JaWE_mJ89KsEAgYqG8gHcGRkHCjuSliKjfpJSnCRknXQebgIl6P9mXyuoPHnwmcxaA3MpkYv8/s1600/IMG_2941-%25282%2529.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562928832916194002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6GsWSq8Q1qObEgHw8k4dbOK03OzYhFIw6jS9qRTLaW9SrXjQRrQWaXE0x8Bi4QRmt72JaWE_mJ89KsEAgYqG8gHcGRkHCjuSliKjfpJSnCRknXQebgIl6P9mXyuoPHnwmcxaA3MpkYv8/s400/IMG_2941-%25282%2529.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />But if you´re too lazy to turn on the engine of the car and drive 6 kilometers, then you can still relish on the fresh oysters which can be ordered in some of the unsophisticated restaurants of Tibau. Or typical dishes such as bobó de camarão ( a recipe blending shrimps, coconut milk, turnip and fresh herbs), washed down with a chope – beer from the tap.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK2iP_hl-x0JcbDdjrI9NYAY8kXkDa6Dtr2enP4PBF8RsPUaX8uTYanNvPnAjbFcGY575HJqlzayb9_hOCX_0ug8bqbqxsjt__XNSNyk69bdNnn5KNXHPz35b2YUYm44c_ta1P2cDDOvI/s1600/IMG_2838.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562928716239422050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK2iP_hl-x0JcbDdjrI9NYAY8kXkDa6Dtr2enP4PBF8RsPUaX8uTYanNvPnAjbFcGY575HJqlzayb9_hOCX_0ug8bqbqxsjt__XNSNyk69bdNnn5KNXHPz35b2YUYm44c_ta1P2cDDOvI/s400/IMG_2838.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Then, as you are in the northeast, there are hammocks in every corner of the house, including on the terrace, in which you feel obliged to take a nap every afternoon, after (late) lunch.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYLKX04Nv2smorIhNJ0tYB-UXkDQarPFAr2t-lAS3XDkFucLXT-sAMEvGwOSJz5pwLsL4FwGvncmbh5cB-nWs2ayanIioQIPcPamGhE1JwaP-5bmgpdRSh4s0bynYOvgBv5xljDxLteb8/s1600/IMG_2949.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562928637827173842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYLKX04Nv2smorIhNJ0tYB-UXkDQarPFAr2t-lAS3XDkFucLXT-sAMEvGwOSJz5pwLsL4FwGvncmbh5cB-nWs2ayanIioQIPcPamGhE1JwaP-5bmgpdRSh4s0bynYOvgBv5xljDxLteb8/s400/IMG_2949.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" onclick="return addthis_sendto()" onmouseout="addthis_close()" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-41029325653463535552011-01-10T11:18:00.000-08:002011-01-10T11:26:34.026-08:00The taste of caipifrutas, a national drink<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvox1uRWnTrIIarHue71ExQyuH-Ia5OueT7Xm6Y73TkxFZ9HQ3v7hQyQ7ZmgV1Ms8DHVs0whvdbFdMSP8oO9iUYGAOmUvCpevXetJVzSCF7TJKJo2nJdJvjDEahDg4WnbIpRTDcg9QckY/s1600/IMG_3143.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560639145396517698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvox1uRWnTrIIarHue71ExQyuH-Ia5OueT7Xm6Y73TkxFZ9HQ3v7hQyQ7ZmgV1Ms8DHVs0whvdbFdMSP8oO9iUYGAOmUvCpevXetJVzSCF7TJKJo2nJdJvjDEahDg4WnbIpRTDcg9QckY/s400/IMG_3143.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong><em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><br />I am pretty sure that anyone who sets foot in Brazil is immediately aware that there is a certain drink that cannot be ignored once in the country – anywhere. And this is about ridiculously delicious <em>caipirinhas</em>, or for those more experienced, the <em>caipifrutas</em>, which blend in with every single fresh fruit you may imagine. Those drinks are manipulated following the barman´s wits, and are also decorated, so you appreciate it with your eyes. And easily fall in love at first sight.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZoBW35ELuwFPsNaWI2dwINk_aGDBe356qiQ2h_BSw9XalI5NpRd_IN6MEnzacgDEQN9puRS3tGJaDwZd9ySx_fmW5CmrJjJz5v_6qMA0rYey2i7t6ma5Jj1cbPOV8a-YWPhMtVAeNKJg/s1600/caipirinha.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560639090743582370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZoBW35ELuwFPsNaWI2dwINk_aGDBe356qiQ2h_BSw9XalI5NpRd_IN6MEnzacgDEQN9puRS3tGJaDwZd9ySx_fmW5CmrJjJz5v_6qMA0rYey2i7t6ma5Jj1cbPOV8a-YWPhMtVAeNKJg/s400/caipirinha.jpg" border="0" /></a> The word <em><strong>caipi</strong></em> will sound familiar as soon as you enter a bar, be it on the sidewalk of the beach or any restaurant. <em>Caipirinha</em> will then become familiar in a split second, and from this point you´ll become addicted. The mix between lemon, sugar, ice and either cachaça ( the alcoholic beverage made from sugar cane) or vodka will remain forever in you palate and also in your vocabulary, even if caipirinha is the only word which you´ll memorize.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH18voGwNV_MoxhEA5JxUVcvSyTfVbvqxohtXKwnQPQ1KlO4nueogxXqjgejkAsRZo2GbDXi1iqrXN-8r9zWV91Lop98S0q3DqRo0Wp_suisF0cKVhpqS95TZ21BzDHfFwA05BswLjllU/s1600/IMG_3158.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560638994099538802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH18voGwNV_MoxhEA5JxUVcvSyTfVbvqxohtXKwnQPQ1KlO4nueogxXqjgejkAsRZo2GbDXi1iqrXN-8r9zWV91Lop98S0q3DqRo0Wp_suisF0cKVhpqS95TZ21BzDHfFwA05BswLjllU/s400/IMG_3158.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Any fresh fruit, tropical or not, can represent the main ingredient for this amazing drink, like kiwi, cashew, grapes, lichia ( absolutely divine!), strawberries, lime, passion fruit, pineapple, and many others. Moreover, imagination is the limit, so you can even invent some fusions, like the perfect combination of lemon with passion fruit, and also add ginger, for instance. Let´s say, whatever crosses your mind, just give it a try.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh58qzo4f0dB5cMUXGZZpRuIYyvtZDZ9P3d9Ydg5oflB74HdwH3bgaAznKcrmA00cOCIZDxDEvtguJbIUoSVFS4EGYpUkXwJ5i66gRmPe7AqnTLtDwGNRtZQzRqNTmYDvmaxpXolZPEjLY/s1600/IMG_3154.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560638929301346786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh58qzo4f0dB5cMUXGZZpRuIYyvtZDZ9P3d9Ydg5oflB74HdwH3bgaAznKcrmA00cOCIZDxDEvtguJbIUoSVFS4EGYpUkXwJ5i66gRmPe7AqnTLtDwGNRtZQzRqNTmYDvmaxpXolZPEjLY/s400/IMG_3154.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Also, this recipe is no secret. Many restaurants around the world, as in Paris or even small Californian town like Laguna Beach has somehow adopted it. The making-off is so simple that anyone can give it a try at home. And amaze your friends with a little Brazilian touch during a happy hour!<br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" onclick="return addthis_sendto()" onmouseout="addthis_close()" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-33388868779253206942010-12-25T13:34:00.000-08:002010-12-25T13:43:03.818-08:00New Year´s Eve resolutions<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJTR5s074du_qGqWILuRwUFokbx4Y8OPT1I0QUoL7q_C3jPZd4z9DXwS2Xgihd6DzBmT78pI_5rGFl3Pzwv5YRQVRSEXv_bMl__nLW7p2j86kWmpSXnjMB9xoSuJ29dkf5UAdSNKJkOGo/s1600/DSC01252.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554736639879341794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJTR5s074du_qGqWILuRwUFokbx4Y8OPT1I0QUoL7q_C3jPZd4z9DXwS2Xgihd6DzBmT78pI_5rGFl3Pzwv5YRQVRSEXv_bMl__nLW7p2j86kWmpSXnjMB9xoSuJ29dkf5UAdSNKJkOGo/s400/DSC01252.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><strong><em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><br />As I told you a while before, I´m off to one of the most amazing spots in the northeastern shore of Brazil - Tibau do Sul, in the state of Rio Grande do Norte.<br />There will be dolphins swimming by my side, dunes and miles of sandy beaches to stroll on, coconut water galore and peace.<br />And NO internet.<br />So, I apologise for those who will feel a bit postless for a few days, but it´s only a matter of days, really, while I´m spending New Year´s Eve in one of my favorite places. And as you can´t have it all, not being connected is the only caveat.<br />The good news is that everything that´s new will be transmitted to you as soon as I come back.<br />Have a happy New Year and try to make as many resolutions as you can.<br />Mine are: to travel more in 2011 and keep you posted even more next year!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" onclick="return addthis_sendto()" onmouseout="addthis_close()" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-42489121626179258012010-12-21T16:59:00.000-08:002010-12-21T17:23:18.303-08:00Horseriding holidays in the south region: a must for horse fans.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKWEUTpSsP_dQXAe-9kGX0H-r8uJ5M6E_5iHyP4cQxRfwyI3Y2QsaNZ11TREhYj8istZ5oXQmi2TwaKWSGUQSVrlg9lr8t4Sn3aq1b-MYkny-kVt_sE03mX97FNzjj6LQqw97EJfOpN1U/s1600/cavalos-sul1285.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553307232955350258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKWEUTpSsP_dQXAe-9kGX0H-r8uJ5M6E_5iHyP4cQxRfwyI3Y2QsaNZ11TREhYj8istZ5oXQmi2TwaKWSGUQSVrlg9lr8t4Sn3aq1b-MYkny-kVt_sE03mX97FNzjj6LQqw97EJfOpN1U/s400/cavalos-sul1285.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><strong><em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><br />If there´s a region in Brazil which can be defined as ideal for horseriding, it´s certainly the south. Thanks to its topography, and the endless grassy highlands, allied with a fascinating landscape, the serra gaúcha – the gaúcho mountain chain – in the state of Rio Grande do Sul is a world away from any other ladnscape you´ve ever seen.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqvbRS2r6EeZdmCkbmZPZgLuVxuiBXRjsuJ3Z50_H_ks4htPc0X8LEfRyBcQMGjC_KS-DG_0xvrkHZ7NoXF9tRrShdEmiPx3NZdNZ1L-JmH_Bz-F0CgR0nbgVQ85j5C0Jymd2C48DHkBk/s1600/cavalos-sul1288.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553307120841903346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqvbRS2r6EeZdmCkbmZPZgLuVxuiBXRjsuJ3Z50_H_ks4htPc0X8LEfRyBcQMGjC_KS-DG_0xvrkHZ7NoXF9tRrShdEmiPx3NZdNZ1L-JmH_Bz-F0CgR0nbgVQ85j5C0Jymd2C48DHkBk/s400/cavalos-sul1288.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Sc97qNuYlGmFsLh5xCc_NWYt1IBLYM-bxQVBEeda1c9ZWIO8EDznLBrukV0ALO99YYlpf7nyL_STEnuGxItrLtKKrAxNFe8fF-hOawWvV_pkMQW86NrzHC916D0I0Mc2w1_-4KHVkUc/s1600/cavalos-sul1281.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553306895475472146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Sc97qNuYlGmFsLh5xCc_NWYt1IBLYM-bxQVBEeda1c9ZWIO8EDznLBrukV0ALO99YYlpf7nyL_STEnuGxItrLtKKrAxNFe8fF-hOawWvV_pkMQW86NrzHC916D0I0Mc2w1_-4KHVkUc/s400/cavalos-sul1281.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />I´ve been a couple of times to S. Francisco de Paula, Cambará and the surroundings of these typical locations, where you can ride for miles without seeing another human being. Also, there´s a very calm and sturdy breed of horse called the “crioulo”, bred and raised in the South and extremely adapted to Brazilian soil.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj79AuH2c3qdQ42HILWubL_58wDxE0y9EX76SNhyII8P_gfkknBGn6U_f2uDgBNBX6XJybp5WHNvCLoGcIRAVU_Kjk5a-zcuuMIWeSoZLI5eM8pPaK7BNVuL8lzlhRBzi37Od6RAM_K0RM/s1600/cavalos-sul1289.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553306771871501906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj79AuH2c3qdQ42HILWubL_58wDxE0y9EX76SNhyII8P_gfkknBGn6U_f2uDgBNBX6XJybp5WHNvCLoGcIRAVU_Kjk5a-zcuuMIWeSoZLI5eM8pPaK7BNVuL8lzlhRBzi37Od6RAM_K0RM/s400/cavalos-sul1289.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkCYmLR_JBM07HvgbjH1YWSYiSrpwGBjiSq0NMyneKtD5dshxn2hAfpKO1YpjBTeXGW0x4bJ7XMV9m4KwFlf-c_EE9hEUGn8-c4VJ72xi_3MekVHgexNVJNVRU9liV32y79sAYXFP9wQI/s1600/cavalos-sul1292.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553306644020269090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkCYmLR_JBM07HvgbjH1YWSYiSrpwGBjiSq0NMyneKtD5dshxn2hAfpKO1YpjBTeXGW0x4bJ7XMV9m4KwFlf-c_EE9hEUGn8-c4VJ72xi_3MekVHgexNVJNVRU9liV32y79sAYXFP9wQI/s400/cavalos-sul1292.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJtDp1hpP5UGjktyy-QwtbqiW8jXHzXSYQSFpUorWbnGqUnlS62abCDPjcdql6ffuf93kjC3dW7g2_oCerRbsSt5x91MhtAQvW9SJ9NfkhdeCmQoI2DscFUe-Tkonzd_CRB5G8io5Gnoc/s1600/cavalos-sul1284.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553306525126898642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 276px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJtDp1hpP5UGjktyy-QwtbqiW8jXHzXSYQSFpUorWbnGqUnlS62abCDPjcdql6ffuf93kjC3dW7g2_oCerRbsSt5x91MhtAQvW9SJ9NfkhdeCmQoI2DscFUe-Tkonzd_CRB5G8io5Gnoc/s400/cavalos-sul1284.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJKWeweABSnmMiOjxSjxAZiW3BeWW_JDLRl5YyOk0XkMLRzqH2Zvd4pdRbAwG28R2NlQISJCcbAHRVf3b0v93xGVj4X074KJALig8Xv0rZnF8en1di5Hb8invWwNwO6kqGrGq7bMddoaE/s1600/cavalos-sul1280.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553306373688206162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJKWeweABSnmMiOjxSjxAZiW3BeWW_JDLRl5YyOk0XkMLRzqH2Zvd4pdRbAwG28R2NlQISJCcbAHRVf3b0v93xGVj4X074KJALig8Xv0rZnF8en1di5Hb8invWwNwO6kqGrGq7bMddoaE/s400/cavalos-sul1280.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The pretty setting is only another attribute, but after galloping on the rolling hills of the Aparados da Serra, any horse lover will not want to ride anywhere else than across those green and fenceless fields, crossing natural obstacle like rivers and canyons, sitting around a bondfire at the end of the day, sipping “chimarrão”, the non-alcooholic local beverage made from the leaf of <em>erva mate</em>, very popular in this part of Brazil.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-YZn9jxkr7bfjAdQlCXAhhpiGM6wPitQ8ThV7XSvEIwp0DpFplj0Ua2SJu4sIhGAcqvIxXb0SHEoYUdyOxMQ55wZc9dThdFp7vs5jcH98c_ICTbUg4jRcLMF63NIvcBFwmLbXVm-cap0/s1600/cavalos-sul1282.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553305977319597730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-YZn9jxkr7bfjAdQlCXAhhpiGM6wPitQ8ThV7XSvEIwp0DpFplj0Ua2SJu4sIhGAcqvIxXb0SHEoYUdyOxMQ55wZc9dThdFp7vs5jcH98c_ICTbUg4jRcLMF63NIvcBFwmLbXVm-cap0/s400/cavalos-sul1282.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The character behind the reins is a (special) <em>gaúcho </em> named Paulo Hafner <a href="http://www.campofora.com.br/">www.campofora.com.br</a> , and the mentor of these fabulous horseriding holidays, something he introduced almost two decades ago. On the program, he´s offering all sorts of experiences, so you can choose between a few days on the saddle, with overnight stays in typical <em>colono</em>´s houses, where you´ll enjoy the hospitality of the <em>gaúchos</em> and their culinary specialities. Or, for those who are looking for something a little more comfy and luxurious, there´s also an option where you can spend the nights in a hotel, but then the atmosphere will be less personal.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW9f3Ylqyr8Z3nI8_WAYTz14XVsfRI5WeZqfkuOi9agU4lciweGvTSUmDkD9bfPhagmeEI89Jw7-yiijah0gEwHmco-jnlE-7J1rrZeAirRMTKubawnX6XcGnMKirALogyr2RzyYLqjMM/s1600/cavalos-sul1290.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553305853682487554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW9f3Ylqyr8Z3nI8_WAYTz14XVsfRI5WeZqfkuOi9agU4lciweGvTSUmDkD9bfPhagmeEI89Jw7-yiijah0gEwHmco-jnlE-7J1rrZeAirRMTKubawnX6XcGnMKirALogyr2RzyYLqjMM/s400/cavalos-sul1290.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />I do prefer to meet the locals , taste their homey cuisine and sit by the fireplace in their kitchen, doing small talk with the family of owners. I should add that the south is an entirely different Brazil altogether, and the atmosphere is very distinct from the southeast or the northeast, to say the least!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_fLvw5Xzw2iK_yc1a1_BTSsc_uaa0DxiGrET3IkZXkWh1PRh5CESapkBhFDAUkFfEqKqRH9EXiah1n0VTz2Yp0Eekx2xiMfteoKXYB0oJchPXWMaBzWZNF58AYHRYb-mXerSCCVVUbOI/s1600/cavalos-sul1287.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553305725006681666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_fLvw5Xzw2iK_yc1a1_BTSsc_uaa0DxiGrET3IkZXkWh1PRh5CESapkBhFDAUkFfEqKqRH9EXiah1n0VTz2Yp0Eekx2xiMfteoKXYB0oJchPXWMaBzWZNF58AYHRYb-mXerSCCVVUbOI/s400/cavalos-sul1287.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq2pipHp1WB8Q3KPgvIMHcnbBrul8ux7mpvC0pOp5wkgAB_0MLgwdhPYpptb3oLzgvHlOoVDOHanMNNwkGFpo2zfjIlD9bCwjubDyiV6mZ-rQUaf12WVCh340gnPCJUOOFNI9jOIjhn00/s1600/cavalos-sul1283.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553305543438054610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq2pipHp1WB8Q3KPgvIMHcnbBrul8ux7mpvC0pOp5wkgAB_0MLgwdhPYpptb3oLzgvHlOoVDOHanMNNwkGFpo2zfjIlD9bCwjubDyiV6mZ-rQUaf12WVCh340gnPCJUOOFNI9jOIjhn00/s400/cavalos-sul1283.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPW7Mnr_3sb1al6RARBKuTldhqQKZ6DGDEek-Af6BZOzHp1wfiypgO61oqNlVPakAkZnf8gCCSgWCW3yLntpYU2cIESG8NVrow47B1tsuqUBp793vkyCfqDYDCnReD3bxzLbOdR6StlGY/s1600/cavalos-sul1279.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553305441861655298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPW7Mnr_3sb1al6RARBKuTldhqQKZ6DGDEek-Af6BZOzHp1wfiypgO61oqNlVPakAkZnf8gCCSgWCW3yLntpYU2cIESG8NVrow47B1tsuqUBp793vkyCfqDYDCnReD3bxzLbOdR6StlGY/s400/cavalos-sul1279.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"> A pit-stop to admire a waterfall in the region of the Aparados da Serra.<br /></span><br /><br />Best of all is that those riding expeditions can be scheduled all year-round, with higher temperatures in the summer but with freezing ones in winter. Both periods are nice, with different highlights due to weather conditions and itineraries. Do check Paulo´s website to have an idea of the incredible journeys offered on horseback. Something to think about when you are longing for something out-of-the-beaten-trail.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglhlcDdNdD6UO3aZzFlAzKKE50voTujJEegxXBSWe-zCSkhh-xtmpSAjKQgmWd4LmsHbpoQJeDMN0z9_Odga9Jb9ELidgFt4Q1HFkod7HopvnEnByz5pGtHO1lw2lzodaWHGWKxffCOgk/s1600/eze1048.jpg"></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" onclick="return addthis_sendto()" onmouseout="addthis_close()" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-20991329107349570772010-12-13T10:22:00.001-08:002010-12-13T10:34:37.255-08:00Diamantina, land of Chica da Silva, Juscelino Kubitschek and..diamonds<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gUmOvzAI1XUJDUTysQCu9LVXJEIsVzUZDqhxAwyzMSsO_aPBTbT-XHwMvqBttLfftdcto6WXTP_olcjOxbDBQ4CrELycXfI9pQs5ABbYhbYOMyzGbcunJRCN6JPgw-PTrzPyCmiD3KA/s1600/diamantina931.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550234899572320450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 276px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gUmOvzAI1XUJDUTysQCu9LVXJEIsVzUZDqhxAwyzMSsO_aPBTbT-XHwMvqBttLfftdcto6WXTP_olcjOxbDBQ4CrELycXfI9pQs5ABbYhbYOMyzGbcunJRCN6JPgw-PTrzPyCmiD3KA/s400/diamantina931.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong><em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><br /><br />I am a passionate about colonial towns and there are quite a few in Brazil. Most of them in the State of Minas Gerais.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNYl3v6nDNu_OtU3g_TFv999M1Lp22R8qh_XuZeoRPmxYQEep_pu3n1OA5p-lateTQQwn0cLAHKoEdhmUnYxRj3NpkefNri5d_wNnULVs_jfp4g9J9ARfgqfVzn_42nkzpc-JfRv95KUY/s1600/diamantina915.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550234797296823682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNYl3v6nDNu_OtU3g_TFv999M1Lp22R8qh_XuZeoRPmxYQEep_pu3n1OA5p-lateTQQwn0cLAHKoEdhmUnYxRj3NpkefNri5d_wNnULVs_jfp4g9J9ARfgqfVzn_42nkzpc-JfRv95KUY/s400/diamantina915.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl-8Cdh6lfaaq8CQQGIyyldUajAKF5sseBs40YXVasxFsgvHDvhx4LRm0C6Yk9XZmEk-ukZBxou8pmfSRoHAe8jHVUCWGDhdX1ZIrDHx50k-V4bGC2NP6Jlq6jyznqxiO0d5nI97ceuZA/s1600/diamantina924.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550234708732591938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl-8Cdh6lfaaq8CQQGIyyldUajAKF5sseBs40YXVasxFsgvHDvhx4LRm0C6Yk9XZmEk-ukZBxou8pmfSRoHAe8jHVUCWGDhdX1ZIrDHx50k-V4bGC2NP6Jlq6jyznqxiO0d5nI97ceuZA/s400/diamantina924.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjayK0PQEdOgqhIOtoMpHvSlDHU1LkwdWnLjZLsd7pkn5FmJN6EnYhfacls2qrCUuB7Uv6PttLQK01-DX8ZIf2jCyHg9rUkxG5doZd_8QydZpjO5P2Qo5isqoqoAdOXUgonsWc0XabLaLU/s1600/diamantina903.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550234626542196946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjayK0PQEdOgqhIOtoMpHvSlDHU1LkwdWnLjZLsd7pkn5FmJN6EnYhfacls2qrCUuB7Uv6PttLQK01-DX8ZIf2jCyHg9rUkxG5doZd_8QydZpjO5P2Qo5isqoqoAdOXUgonsWc0XabLaLU/s400/diamantina903.jpg" border="0" /></a> Diamantina, one of the most genuine, is not the most sought-after, as far as a massive tourist hub , although it boasts history in every corner. Maybe because it´s not at easy reach like many other towns. You have to drive for 300 kilometers from capital Belo Horizonte towards Brasília on the BR-040 to get to the birth place of ex-president Juscelino Kubitschek.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqiMWJ3VR_OgEPs2UQAkiepKMGTurlfzswxKfu-uMIPDPYnF7Kddb9eHuwPWBmt7WlQJ62FNAIBTN1CRHbGrPrdxSn9dfv6EgMI-oLcv0Tc2aa4vd0RY-l-7aXDZqCoWTCrRwLKpALcrM/s1600/diamantina917.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550234548377736274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 276px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqiMWJ3VR_OgEPs2UQAkiepKMGTurlfzswxKfu-uMIPDPYnF7Kddb9eHuwPWBmt7WlQJ62FNAIBTN1CRHbGrPrdxSn9dfv6EgMI-oLcv0Tc2aa4vd0RY-l-7aXDZqCoWTCrRwLKpALcrM/s400/diamantina917.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPVTg5BeyZDK4dWsZrXwz8YJ5LP0mtAGjM3YJE_w3RPEodCokCqFSxmDWM1mbXsN2ColLfP5xoPPSp0zQUTT6ND2xhlyG6LjjCW_CURkHvUnHeedpQXxv2DfSGQkCYaLrlFL_sdfUgVNg/s1600/diamantina927.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550234477038691442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPVTg5BeyZDK4dWsZrXwz8YJ5LP0mtAGjM3YJE_w3RPEodCokCqFSxmDWM1mbXsN2ColLfP5xoPPSp0zQUTT6ND2xhlyG6LjjCW_CURkHvUnHeedpQXxv2DfSGQkCYaLrlFL_sdfUgVNg/s400/diamantina927.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb3MmI9AfxPGRyAbtAVy4SkFs9BoauJ5asukCplw_qdNf4G6ZrNEziViWcimt7a5af0aQSzG9X3G90pVtyC3a9oc7HaiA9fpd3_7v62MjLOMVIOM_vOST-ocIoioQXSuIYlRFwf7zrGew/s1600/diamantina907.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550234405204232066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 276px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb3MmI9AfxPGRyAbtAVy4SkFs9BoauJ5asukCplw_qdNf4G6ZrNEziViWcimt7a5af0aQSzG9X3G90pVtyC3a9oc7HaiA9fpd3_7v62MjLOMVIOM_vOST-ocIoioQXSuIYlRFwf7zrGew/s400/diamantina907.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />But Diamantina is also known as the venue of famous slave-turned-into-mistress Chica da Silva during the diamond fever in the 18th century. The African lady became a despotic “first lady” after seducing the Portuguese governor , during a period when Diamantina ( which owes its name to the portuguese word “diamante” - diamond) was sought after for its precious metal, abundantly found in its riverbeds.<br /><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550234326660390770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 276px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsNaH1mVxBNH2Ogmd2JyjvKNSGyLGWidNtX19IrO9_8Qc1WFpnXC3JNM46tZwXRu-xFhVIRN07_C2nx0NF9v7BhbrXa9gC7nwRaoE3xgqNvGcrXoAh0PDSJrlCzYEnoYV2CH-Iog6t-lY/s400/diamantina918.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj44JAF-f84JOYK52nH00sp8NPOkO6sABZV97r-rojfCAjnstNlUWWcncmnysagvlgS_RyijP1KsIZ3QdagJBnWpOO3-dvfUJOeI-jcF-cBD3XyR1dun8GDfwK-HawXxGLqQrW6jBgj5S4/s1600/diamantina914.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550234244220380306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 276px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj44JAF-f84JOYK52nH00sp8NPOkO6sABZV97r-rojfCAjnstNlUWWcncmnysagvlgS_RyijP1KsIZ3QdagJBnWpOO3-dvfUJOeI-jcF-cBD3XyR1dun8GDfwK-HawXxGLqQrW6jBgj5S4/s400/diamantina914.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Besides cobbled streets and authentic façades, you can enjoy the great outdoors all year-round, as the region is surrounded by impressive waterfalls and panoramic hikes.<br />Once in town, do not miss the municipal market, which retains a nostalgic feel and where you´ll find all sorts of home-made food, artcrafts from the Vale do Jequitinhonha , local cachaça and, naturally, semi-precious stones – also found in several little shops spread around the narrow alleys and old city center.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO6fJ4d2jjL-OlZLR48BW_-aoXaf__GFAIe0TQvj-OZpll6Egeu4RLkJfVgwC-DW3DEIF0gQGyqaboPQqm957jHObFWuNn35Fn_uGMIxxOtFVqciV55dkz7ScmmiOWM2wNXWvdfnsDE7E/s1600/diamantina923.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550234162400795202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO6fJ4d2jjL-OlZLR48BW_-aoXaf__GFAIe0TQvj-OZpll6Egeu4RLkJfVgwC-DW3DEIF0gQGyqaboPQqm957jHObFWuNn35Fn_uGMIxxOtFVqciV55dkz7ScmmiOWM2wNXWvdfnsDE7E/s400/diamantina923.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />But Diamantina is also known as the venue of famous slave-turned-into-mistress Chica da Silva during the diamond fever in the 18th century. The so-called beauty became a despotic “first lady” after seducing the Portuguese governor and "ruling" as his mistress , during a period when Diamantina ( which owes its name to the portuguese word “diamante” - diamond) was sought after for its precious metal, abundantly found in its riverbeds.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" onclick="return addthis_sendto()" onmouseout="addthis_close()" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-27460222597622942182010-12-08T14:55:00.000-08:002010-12-20T09:11:57.796-08:00In Sanpa, as a carioca.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQMEmRC3igazKHUNAQwZR25Vvfm8XcHPz9URsJFsAxIfw5Giij7vEzrkpnTcccrIkyEeF_nrNcoz4ymfYB5MabaluktbNo3axl0xjTbY6yaidG8wazG-eWa7C1rmrlsV0d5GSInIk2vjo/s1600/IMG_2610.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548450393646575250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQMEmRC3igazKHUNAQwZR25Vvfm8XcHPz9URsJFsAxIfw5Giij7vEzrkpnTcccrIkyEeF_nrNcoz4ymfYB5MabaluktbNo3axl0xjTbY6yaidG8wazG-eWa7C1rmrlsV0d5GSInIk2vjo/s400/IMG_2610.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong><em></em></strong><br /><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:78%;">the view from the breakfast room on the 15th floor of Sheraton WTC</span></em></strong></div><strong><em></em></strong><br /><strong><em></em></strong><br /><strong><em></em></strong><br /><strong><em></em></strong><br /><em><strong>by Antonella Kann</strong> </em><br /><br />Even though I´ve been visiting São Paulo since I was a little girl, this huge and buzzling metropolis always leaves me in a state of confusion. I wouldn´t take the wheel for the sake of my dear life, for instance…<br />Anyhow, I do come quite often for dear friends and work - both are meaningful in this palpitating city. This time, it was for the launching ( or re-launching) of my travel photography book “Flashes of the World”, an event which was kindly sponsored by <strong>Sheraton WTC</strong> hotel ( <a href="http://www.sheraton.com/">http://www.sheraton.com/</a> ) and italian restaurant <strong>Mercatto Caffé</strong>.<br />You may have different opinions and say whatever you want about the "looks" of São Paulo – not a feather of beauty compared to Rio – but I insist to say that in the matter of service and quality, everything is grand.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7tdGcdCtnOdTZ1SFIH2bEuAE_j4FM_Bzhl1SLHKQn_FCyKo33qxNl7ZyLTHuYvbz2PX8YXP62_0JZNitZwZk_mRT1i1Qn3D2EpAUWoW98tDs6K9zE9vWClko0rlJZgy4fOF33osllQAs/s1600/IMG_2605.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548450301778493330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7tdGcdCtnOdTZ1SFIH2bEuAE_j4FM_Bzhl1SLHKQn_FCyKo33qxNl7ZyLTHuYvbz2PX8YXP62_0JZNitZwZk_mRT1i1Qn3D2EpAUWoW98tDs6K9zE9vWClko0rlJZgy4fOF33osllQAs/s400/IMG_2605.jpg" border="0" /></a> It has a level of sophistication which pairs nowhere else in Brazil, with very few exceptions. My design suite, for instance, is one of the 67 exclusive rooms which bears the signature of a renowned interior designer and/or architect. This is an inovator project of personalizing a few floors of a five star hotel in order to make you feel more at home, let´s say. Well, I had a king size bed with fluffy pillows galore, comfy robe and wide LED screen with many channels in several languages. I almost lost my appointment watching a French thriller … And there were plenty of Granado´s ammenities in the bathroom, even a body scrub sponge.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfa-C748WRD6ImuQ9KiqCmrPV3Tfh_m4fSIH_2vTkRLkRk-6xUo3z-WIa566leQ565hzBPPRiqM4Ywj5Jjs0roYIg84Uyqan9nvyRQ4gxMMdpai7d0XfVCJIMfJMzbQCOt9HwpH7SN1yE/s1600/IMG_2607.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548450228555715682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfa-C748WRD6ImuQ9KiqCmrPV3Tfh_m4fSIH_2vTkRLkRk-6xUo3z-WIa566leQ565hzBPPRiqM4Ywj5Jjs0roYIg84Uyqan9nvyRQ4gxMMdpai7d0XfVCJIMfJMzbQCOt9HwpH7SN1yE/s400/IMG_2607.jpg" border="0" /></a> São Paulo is indeed the richest town in this country and you can fulfill almost everything in your wishlist. From expensive cars to designers´clothes and furniture for your house. By the way, the Sheraton is right inside one of the most sophisticated shopping center called <strong>D& D</strong>, dedicated to design and decoration. You just walk out of your room and stroll up and down three floors of fantastic high end stores…Think fabrics, wall paper, tapestry….<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhnqazQZ2T5w8jBmCGfgdh2ntRQ4cGR0YZcTHDrZj9gU4YvEF7Lr9kLGjr0UIspKNrCstO4X25G5BQDR-uvePiyg5wOvbDeCyyQMKjTAbXlKJbOU4aBa1F5OKlp03raGRWpt49IWSKq8U/s1600/IMG_2609.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548450109594145458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhnqazQZ2T5w8jBmCGfgdh2ntRQ4cGR0YZcTHDrZj9gU4YvEF7Lr9kLGjr0UIspKNrCstO4X25G5BQDR-uvePiyg5wOvbDeCyyQMKjTAbXlKJbOU4aBa1F5OKlp03raGRWpt49IWSKq8U/s400/IMG_2609.jpg" border="0" /></a> And you eat well in Sanpa. Really well. Our venue, well located the <strong>Mercatto Caffé</strong> (<em>Helio Pellegrino, 198</em>,<em> in Vila Nova Conceição</em>) is an italian restaurant with good pasta, honestly cooked <strong><em>al dente</em></strong>, and reasonable prices. The atmosphere is very relaxed. You don´t even need to be launching a book – just enjoy the focaccia and draft beer at one of the <em><strong>al fresco</strong></em> tables on the terrace.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" onclick="return addthis_sendto()" onmouseout="addthis_close()" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><!-- AddThis Button END --></div></div></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5717874585106009741.post-6241261920638917362010-11-28T16:19:00.000-08:002010-11-28T16:53:44.374-08:00Rio for tourists...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw7-_Z0mEWND2NO728GNtNDMIpLYiip2-9aixV8hKoThPF0aMEo86tcfZUQeNPasmye-rmoGLYi3XJj9D5TJsQa6TZXrh6HbQ_07-FpHbf7otOm8U0rYwnDlS9zBfaXeNNpQ1JpFLpG0Q/s1600/000005.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544759689116569698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 268px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw7-_Z0mEWND2NO728GNtNDMIpLYiip2-9aixV8hKoThPF0aMEo86tcfZUQeNPasmye-rmoGLYi3XJj9D5TJsQa6TZXrh6HbQ_07-FpHbf7otOm8U0rYwnDlS9zBfaXeNNpQ1JpFLpG0Q/s400/000005.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><strong><em>by Antonella Kann</em></strong><br /><br />Yes, indeed, Rio is one of the most stunning places on earth. A haven which has not yet been discovered by tourism, comparing with other places in the world. I daresay that the negative propaganda which spreads all over could be the reason for Brazil to have such a low number of visitors.<br />I realize that I am saying this in a very delicate moment, as you have been witnessing our momentaneous and vulnerable situation through international networks and newspapers.<br />Although the situation is still uncertain, I am not the least frightened. Nor were the hundred and some passengers in the flight which brought me home three days ago. Concerned, certainly, as I was, but so happy to be back to this luminous town, admire the beach and the sea, the tropical colors of summer, feel the heat in my bones.<br />Unfortunately, you usually hear the bad side of the story when it comes to Rio de Janeiro. And, unfortunately, this doesn´t help to bring tourists to this city or even to this country.<br />If you imagine that we have only 5,4 millions visitors per year, compared to France, which receives almost 60 million people...<br />For the last three days, my focus has been on Rio and how the police will detangle the situation.<br />We, the cariocas, are optimistic and willing to believe that soon we will be proud to offer our guests a refurbished town, where the word safety will be a reality.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a id="data:post.url" onmouseover="'return" onclick="return addthis_sendto()" onmouseout="addthis_close()" name="data:post.title"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: 0pt; BORDER-TOP: 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: 0pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: 0pt" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" /></a><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/200/addthis_widget.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div>antonella kannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12892798001444732916noreply@blogger.com0