March 10, 2025
RIO DE JANEIRO - Day 1 - FAT TUESDAY!
WOW !! We were super excited to gain the extra days in Rio, especially to be in port on FAT TUESDAY!! As soon as we cleared customs, around 2pm, we were off the ship ready to join in all the festivities and explore this huge city. We ran right into our first street party right outside the port gates! The roving street parties are mostly young people partying in sexy costumes, but the performers and their families are also mixed into the crowds, so that all ages are represented.
Below are the many faces and custumes I observed. Fish net stockings were everywhere!
Here's some first glimpse of the city too! The downtown Centro area where the port is located is the older more seasoned, slightly run down section of town. There are few new additions of architecture sprinkled within the classic historical buildings.
We found four different street parties, below is the last one, where lots of families were present. After dancing, drinking and people watching, we headed back to the ship to have dinner as the sun was setting. We could still hear the music going strong throughout the neighborhoods, but we were fading and had been warned about the dangers of theft repeatedly. Sadly, some of our friends, fellow residents, did have their phones stolen right out of their hands and some jewelry grabbed. We always traveled together and were very aware to keep ourselves out of harm. Love the camaraderie I share with my group of friends here!
