After initially planning to leave Brazil, we found ourselves captivated by the vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and the sense of community in Rio de Janeiro, prompting us to extend our stay and explore the city more deeply.
We were about to leave Brazil until we realized that our journey was just beginning. Nine years ago, we visited Brazil for the first time and fell in love with its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. This trip, we planned to stay for a couple of weeks during the carnival season before heading to Argentina. However, signs from the universe suggested we should stay longer.
As we explored Rio de Janeiro, we felt an undeniable pull towards the city. We began our day at the famous Escadaria Selarón, a colorful staircase that embodies the spirit of Rio. Our goal was to share our experiences in a conversational manner, inviting our audience to engage with us as if we were hanging out together.
A debate arose about what it means to truly live in a place. As digital nomads and slow travelers, we often move every few weeks or months. Does that mean we can say we’ve moved here? For us, the answer is yes, even if our stay isn’t permanent.
Rio is known for its popular tourist areas like Ipanema, Copacabana, and Leblon, which are vibrant but also expensive. After some trial and error with Airbnbs, we found a cozy studio apartment in Santa Teresa for $850 a month, conveniently located near Lapa, known for its nightlife.
Throughout our travels, we’ve encountered places where we felt like mere tourists, such as Cancun and Cartagena. However, Rio has a unique charm that resonates with us. The city is large yet manageable, with beautiful beaches and a lively community. The beaches serve as Rio's living room, where people gather to socialize, work out, and enjoy life.
Our first samba class was a highlight of our experience. We booked a private lesson at the Museum of Modern Art and were excited to learn the dance that is so integral to Brazilian culture. Despite initial nerves, we found joy in the rhythm and movement, and we plan to share more about our experience on Patreon.
The nightlife in Rio is vibrant and diverse. We attended a lively event at Praça Salvador, where live music filled the air, and people from all walks of life came together to dance. The energy reminded us of salsa socials we’ve attended in other countries, and we made new friends along the way.
Initially, we struggled to find affordable dining options in Brazil. However, we soon discovered that buffets, known as "por kilo," offer the best value. We learned to create colorful plates filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and traditional dishes like feijoada and shrimp risotto.
Our first trip to Brazil in 2016 was a celebration of Jenny’s college graduation. We practiced Portuguese beforehand and were captivated by the city’s energy, especially as it prepared for the Olympics. The warm reception we received as Mexicans added to our love for the culture.
Initially, we planned to stay in Brazil for six weeks. However, as our departure date approached, we felt overwhelmed by everything we wanted to experience. The final sign to stay came from our friend Chuck Smith, who informed us he would be visiting Brazil just after our planned departure. This news struck a chord with us, and we decided to extend our stay to fully embrace the Rio lifestyle.
Staying longer allows us to immerse ourselves in the life of a carioca, the term for locals in Rio. We want to experience the beaches, the workouts, and the carefree lifestyle that seems to define the city.
As we continue our journey in Rio, we invite our audience to share their curiosities and questions about life in the city. Whether it’s about local cuisine, dance classes, or cultural experiences, we want to create content that resonates with our viewers.
Our adventure in Rio de Janeiro has just begun, and we are excited to explore all that this magnificent city has to offer. From the beaches to the vibrant nightlife, we are ready to embrace the carioca lifestyle and share our experiences with you. Don’t forget to leave your comments and suggestions below, as we love hearing from you!
