April 28,

We had decent sleep and awoke to dogs barking, traffic and horns, and distance music. Rio, a normal bustling city! We got around, having our Javas – discovering my coffee bag had exploded. Jeff had put it in with the clothes bag, which was a first as normally he puts it in the other. Lesson learned. It was mostly on my clothes, which I guess is appropriate! Anyway, we went out to a local store. We bought breakfast and other items.

Back at our place, we had our breakfast: granola, yogurt, and an apple. Then we went to a local self-laundry place and did a load of laundry. First time in a while that we had been at a laundromat! They are pretty much the same-same, but different. For instance the washer automatically has soap. I like that idea. In between the washer and drying, I blogged and Jeff planned. (It was close enough we did not have to wait there.)

At 1330, we went back out, just a half a block to an outdoor eatery, called Bar Pierrot. We had already been by this place at least twice already and it had been bustling with locals. I ordered “File de Peixe e arroz com brocolis”- Fish fillet, rice with broccoli, but they did not have any broccoli so I substituted fries. Jeff had “Carre com batatas coradas e arroz”- Pork loin with roasted potatoes and rice. Both dishes also had a side of black beans. It was good. I had a Coke and Jeff a beer. Jeff paid the 102,30 Brazilian real (BRL) with his credit card. We were charged $20.61, but our currency converter showed it should have been $20.38. The price of using a credit card. Anyway, we went back to our place…food coma!😆

Around 1700, we went back out to Copacabana Beach. We walked – as it is just a few blocks from us. There was a bicycle lane and then a wide walkway with little stands – selling food; drinks, even alcoholic ones; and all manner of souvenirs. People were everywhere. Then the beach started with permanent set up volleyball nets, which were being used. Then the thick sandy open beach with its many people: laying, sun-bathing; walking to running; kicking soccer balls; and burying themselves. It was a flurry of activity. We took off our shoes and joined in walking & enjoying ourselves as well. We noticed an area being set up, it may be for the Shakira concert that will be happening the day we leave. We left after getting some steps and enough people watching.

Back at our place, we had watermelon, crackers, and cheese with a bottle of Chilean Malbec. Good first day in Rio, baby!