Recife

I have been wanting to visit Recife ever since my family hosted an exchange student from there... 5 years ago when we were both in grade 12. Diniz is now finishing his degree in law. He picked me up at the airport with his girlfriend, Flávia who also studies law. I feel we haven't really changed that much, just that it's different being in Brazil and speaking Portuguese. That evening (Tuesday), they drove me to Boa Viagem, the beach area and around the historical part of town. At Diniz's apartment, I met his mom and younger twin sister and brother.
On Wednesday afternoon, I walked around the historical centre with Duda and her two friends, admiring many colourful historical buildings. Recife was established some 470 years ago and most of the buildings were constructed by Dutch architect.
In the evening, I went to a soccer game with Diniz's mom and other family members. As we approached the stadium I realized what a big deal the game was - the streets were packed with enthousiastic fans dressed in red, white and black, already cheering and signing load. Diniz's mom explained that her brother only let her go to the game because the opposing team was from a far away state so there wouldn't be any of their fans there to start fights. So the stadium was packed with 40000 home team fans!!! They gave loud cheers and whistles all through the game and the stadium seemed to explode when the home team got a goal. Unfortunately, though, the home team lost in the end :(
On Thursday, Diniz's brother drove me, his sister and his girlfriend to Olinda, a nearby city that is recognized as a World Heritage Site. It is especially famous for its 16th century churches, several of which are on a hill overlooking the ocean. In between them the streets are lined with craft stalls and food stands. As we were admiring the ocean, we were serenaded by two men with guitars. They sang about each of us in turn, and even used my name! During Carnaval, the huge party in February, Olinda celebrates using huge "puppets" carried on people heads. We went to a museum of these "puppets" and got an entertaining demonstration by the attendant including the little jig that is done with a colourful umbrella.
Thursday evening, I caught a 12+hour bus here to Fortaleza and managed to sleep quite a bit considering the rough roads and touchy brakes. Here in the north, people drive crazy. You really have to be confident and quick to react. I find that it reflects the culture a bit as well. The people here seem quick to get in disagreements/ discussions and quick to forget about them too.