Brazil

October 24, 2024  by

Attractions in Iguazu Falls – Brazil side

The battle for Iguazu Falls bragging rights rages on! You see, Iguazu is shared by two countries- Brazil and Argentina. There is always an argument which side is better.

I’m firmly on Team Brazil, but Sarantos is convinced Argentina’s where it’s at 😂.

Argentina’s all about falls immersion with bridges over the water. But Brazil’s got the better view – you can see the whole waterfall range without obstruction.

And yes, that last ‘hiking’ segment of the bridge over the water is crazy touristy, but it is absolutely gorgeous! Totally worth a visit!

On your visit, you can experience both sides. It only takes about 20 to 30 minutes to cross the border, and you can hike on both sides and judge for yourself.

Parque Das Aves
Parque Das Aves, a bird-dedicated park, defied expectations. Usually, caged birds disappoint, but our friends’ glowing reviews convinced us to try it. The park’s uniqueness impressed, boasting a 1.5 km aviary where you stroll through a forest-like setting amidst diverse birds.

The rainforest-like environment features indigenous Brazilian plants and several aviaries for interacting with various bird species. I was captivated and would’ve stayed all day, particularly enjoying the parrot enclosure.

The entrance fee is $16 USD and it is a great value for your money! I highly recommend it.

How to get to Iguazu (Brazil side)

To visit Foz do Iguaçu, first, book a flight to Foz do Iguaçu International Airport (IGU) from your nearest major city, either directly or with a layover in São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro. Upon arrival, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or rent a car to reach your accommodation and the famous Iguaçu Falls. Plan your itinerary to explore both the Brazilian and Argentine sides of the falls for a complete experience. Don’t forget to consider nearby attractions like the Itaipu Dam and local cultural sites to enhance your visit.


 

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October 23, 2024  by

Iguazu Falls Revisited

On Feb 22, 2023, we arrived in Iguazu eager to witness the breathtaking waterfalls. But fate had other plans. Upon landing, a message from my family revealed my mother’s sudden hospitalization but they assured me that mom will pull through.

We woke up the next day to a text that mom was gone. God must have wanted to see her sooner. 🥹
It was a very difficult day.

In my darkest moment, my friend Sarantos stood by me, offering comfort and strength. With newfound resolve, I sought solace in the urgent need to return to the Philippines. I had to be strong.

Before our flight back to Manila via LA (a 48 hour journey), we had 5 hours to kill so we went to Iguazu Falls for 3 hours. Obviously, I did not have any good photos nor do I remember any of it at all. I was walking in complete daze. Amidst grief, the park’s beauty eluded me.

Yet, Sarantos’ kindness inspired a promise of return. I promised him we will do a proper visit and come back. So here we are again.

Today, we were welcomed by a sea of yellow butterflies that filled the park, a transcendent sign of hope and renewal. Yes, a new beginning unfolds.

Thanks mom for being constant despite your absence.

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October 22, 2024  by

Sao Paolo’s Got the Dough, Not the Looks

Sao Paolo is not an ugly city. But honestly, it’s also not the prettiest city in South America. It’s not repulsive, but it won’t win any beauty pageants either.

As the country’s financial powerhouse, it’s got the dough, but not the looks. 😝 The city’s a forest of high-rises that are about as exciting as a spreadsheet. Brazil’s natural beauty? Yeah, that’s somewhere else in the country.

The city is filled with countless high-rises and I would say 98% of them does not have any character or creative merit. The buildings are cookie-cutter, cement buildings that does not have any architectural value whatsoever.

But hey, Sao Paolo’s got a great airport to send you off to those gorgeous beaches, rainforests, and mountains just a stone’s throw away from Sao Paolo.

Somewhere even within driving distance from the city.

Sao Paolo has two great things going for it- the Ibarapuera Park (their equivalence of Central Park), and Liberdade neighborhood (the country’s Japan Town).

If you’re on your way to Iguazu, Brasilia, Florianopolis, or Rio, a day in Sao Paolo is enough. But Rio is infinitely a better destination.

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October 21, 2024  by

Brazil is Turning Japanese

You won’t believe this, but Brazil has more Japanese folks than any country in the world (outside of Japan)!

It all started back in the 1900s when coffee plantations needed labor and Brazil said, ‘Konnichiwa, come on over!’

Fast forward, São Paulo’s Liberdade neighborhood is like Japan’s coolest cousin – authentic Japanese grub, markets, gadgets, and style. No wonder Brazilians love Asians; they’re like honorary sushi connoisseurs!

Post-WWII, more Japanese arrived, cementing Brazil’s status as Japan’s favorite expat spot. Today, Liberdade’s Japan Town is the place to be for all things Japanese – and Brazilians are happy to oblige.

 

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