Oversized Blues in Brazil

November 12, 2022

Q: Why is this post starting with a “Q”!?

A: Short but epic, this trip to Brazil packed some crazy, interesting, unique, impactful memories. Instead of writing essays as per usual, I want to try a new easy-to-read travel recap format of an interview I will be conducting myself with myself, to give you the most interesting easy-to-find bits of our travels.

Q: Who made these clothes?

A: Everlane – not at all shocking – is who this oversized blue dress-shirt is by. Udler backpack + of course, my patriotic Ukrainian sneakers by The Coat + complete lack of jewelry complete the look.

Q: Popular question I can’t remember which of my friends didn’t ask – did you feel safe?

A: Short story, yes. You’re surrounded by semi-shady neighborhoods, which are surrounded by over 1k favelas, so it’s wise to always be on high alert, not wear flashy jewelry or accessories, not wave technology around – but generally there’s nothing to worry about when visiting known safe areas. Lucky not to have any instance of potential mugging or worse: I did once get called out by one local woman zooming by on her scooter – to put away my phone and stop filming loud Instagram stories in the middle of Copacabana at night.

Q: What about local support for Ukraine?

A: All across Rio – very weak, very unfortunate. Don’t think my patriotic sneakers sparked emotions among locals – guaranteed to be interpreted as just an edgy fashion decision. I did see a Ukrainian flag on the UK embassy building – a single time any kind of public support was spotted. Granted, Rio has an endless list of local concerns; the city is fast-paced, with substantial income gaps, multiple crises + located so far from Europe, it has a luxury to remain least bothered by the war. Local leaders, politicians & the president himself though – yikes. Bolsonaro, a far-right leader voted out in 2022, will always be known for denying Covid in 2020 and quietly bff-ing with putin. Recently elected Lula was just heard spewing nonsense like “Ukraine is responsible for the war”… I wasn’t exactly expecting blue & yellow support banners across the city, but what I saw was – nothing. Brazil supporting Ukraine wouldn’t be a decisive factor in this war at this point (I don’t think) – but it could lead to additional military / humanitarian aid + put Brazil on the right side of history. Politically correct profanity-less conclusion: Ukrainian diplomats have a lot of work to do with Brazilian ones.

Q: Lighter note – what are some must-see locations?

A: Trifecta for tourists: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain cable cars & the beaches (Leblon, Copacabana, Ipanema). Depends on the season, prepare for long wait lines & crowds, but also breathtaking views, caipirinhas & incredible food.

Visiting Christ the Redeemer – we took an Uber up to the absolute highest point we could go, where you can purchase tickets and go up higher to the actual platform right at the foot of the monument. Fog ruined our plans – tickets weren’t even selling during that time. Sugarloaf mountain cable cars was a smoother experience of a few waiting lines to take a scenic ride up to a large restaurant / bar / museum area with unmatched views. Copacabana was our home base – spending countless hungover hours on the hotel rooftop. Each of the 3 famous beaches in Rio l have their own unique flavor and vibe (and sidewalk pattern) – highly recommend visiting all 3.

Q: Final thoughts and recommendations?

A: Unique – one word that comes to mind when describing Rio. Variety of great food, gorgeous panoramic views, vibrant music, dynamic culture – the city is full of life, rhythm & versatility – a tourist’s dream. Highly recommend visiting – follow all proper precautions, study the areas you’re planning to venture out to and you’ll have a one-of-a-kind amazing experience. Brazilian foreign politics – personally not a fan of the passiveness, disassociation and occasionally harmful rhetorics, for the above-mentioned reasons – but to experience Rio as a traveler is wonderful. Would I be visiting during the war in Ukraine if I didn’t have an occasion? No, I wouldn’t. I’m strictly limiting travel to countries openly supporting Ukraine, indecisive “neutral” countries are off the list – but I do have faith that things will change (loaded sentiment to end a a travel post on, but that’s the reality of 2022 for ya).