Feira de Sao Cristovao
We had one day left in Rio de Janeiro. We could not go to the beach because; we needed to gather presents for friends. I guess we could have gone to the beach, but all our gear was packed away into the packs. So Sad. Our plan was the Hippie Fair in Ipanema, but Marcio recommended a fair in Cristovao - Feira de Sao Cristovao. It takes place every Sunday in a large stadium with trinkets from Northern Brazil. We hopped in a cab and found ourselves over by Maracana.
The entry was free, which was fantastic. The sides of the stadium reached to the sky like a sports stadium yet with no seats. Throughout the floor vendors, eaters, and stages were covered with large blue tarps. We walked from vendor to vendor looking for neat goods. One shop really caught our eye. Everyone was able to get an item or two. I purchased a yellow and green bracelet for myself as well as a red, tan, and brown bead bracelet for Teresa. Everyone else bought wood items for house decoration. At a small liquor store, I bought two bottles of Marata Cachaca for Dendy, Jason, and Rawhi in order to make Caparinhas.
After we completed our shopping, we sat down for some food. Who knows what we ordered, but the atmosphere was key. In front of the cafe was an opening of sorts that contained a small stage. A group of revolving musicians played traditional Northern Brazilian music for the small throng of old couples dancing. It was such an amazing local scene. We talked about how important dance is too a relationship. In our humble opininon, dancing is such an intricate part of human existence. You could feel the love emanating from the crowd. So Cool. Finally, the food arrived. There was so much cooked meat. Not sure what type of meat, but we ate it. There were also a lot of beans and veggies. Weird looking veggies. I tried it all, but I stuck to the meat. After the meal, we exited the stadium to find a cab back to Botafogo.
On the way out, there was a donkey tied to a post. Herb had one of the quotes of the trip. He implied he would see us back at home. He wanted to embark on a journey north through South and Central America toward home. Hopefully, I'll be able to print this t-shirt some day soon...
Back in Botafogo, we arranged for a cab ride to the Airport. This is the worst time of the trip - going home. It is always so depressing. Airports are the best and worst places on earth. It all depends on your final destination. This time, GIG was the worst place on earth. I really didn't want to leave Rio, but such is life. We had a great day at the fair, and a super week. I just wanted to skip the next 14 hours of traveling since my ultimate destination was my bed at 9 North Homeland.
Comments
Going home is the worst, I know...I am dying to get to Rio for Carnival, so when I found your weblog I was really happy - you sound like you've had a fab time, and please get your pictures up as soon as you can! Thanks
