Well, nothing like leaving the country without a little excitement. Shortly before I was going to arrive go through security, I was waiting to see some friends before I went through. They called me and said they couldn't park, police had blocked off the entrance to the parking deck I had gone through probably 20-30 minutes earlier. My friends parked somewhere and walked to see me off. My family was there as well. It was sad to leave them but exciting at the same time with this new adventure.
There was some kind of "security issue" and they wouldn't let anyone park in the deck and certain airline carriers weren't allowed to take off. I saw a guy in a silver Hasmat type suit walking outside. Not a great feeling. My flight left on time - (Thank You Jesus!) but half my flight was empty probably because most of the people weren't allowed to come through.
I got in Rio around 10:30 their time (they're 3 hrs ahead of us) after a 9 hr flight and got the house a little after 1 after going through customs and about an hour ride to the apartment where I'm staying. My taxi driver didn't speak any english. He gave me a business card for his taxi company before he dropped me off and one of it's selling points was bilingual drivers. Too funny. The maid was here and cooked me lunch and I went to check out a nearby beach which is about 2 blocks away. It's absolutely beautiful, the mountains remind me of Hawaii.
Sorry I don't have pictures or video. The maid (who doesn't speak any english) communicated with me that it wouldn't be good to take video or pictures by myself. I'll do some sightseeing with school and post them. I have wireless internet (which is another prayer request answered) so I can update this often. School starts Wednesday so I'll probably explore the area a little more tomorrow.
Hey bro!
ReplyDeleteGreat to know you've made it safely. Thanks for your text and updates. Going home has not been the same for me knowing you will not be there, but I'm convinced you're at the place where you need to be.
You must be blessed to have someone cooking for you and to be living just a couple of blocks from the beach. I pray you have a smooth adjustment and that everything will get off to a great start. Peace and be blessings! You are missed!!
~ Your Nizzle
Hey Joel,
ReplyDeleteGlad to see you made it safely. Can't wait to see some pictures. Sabrina and I received the same warning while in Guyana about taking pictures in public. Weird huh? Anyway, we are so happy that you are living out your dream and can't wait to hear about your adventures (esp. Carnival :)) Be good bro.
Philip