Crossing the equator...
Crossing south of the equator for the 1st time. I thought this was a special occasion, where everyone jumps out of their seats and cheers. And the first timers got hazed or something. Instead i slept through it, oh well.
Arrived in Rio as schedule without any problems. Met 2 more mates at the airport, Joe and Byron, also from college. The taxi ride to Copacabana was 60 Reals. I think this is negotiable. Dont be afraid to bargain with the taxis in Brasil, they will charge gringos (foreigners) more if they know they can get away with it. Also, try to carry small bills, because taxi drivers rarely will be able to make change for you.
Booked a room at Stone of a Beach Hostel in Copacabana. Really nice hostel: staff was very friendly, cool bar closes at midnight with cheap drinks (caipinhras 4 Reals). Everyone parties together and moves to the next party. The only problem is that it is in Copacabana. The better beaches are in Ipanema and Barra. Not much of a problem though, because buses run there quite often.
Went to Demacratico in Lapa. Bar had a good mix of locals and tourists. Played cool music and had a huge dance floor.
Quote of the day: Is there a girl in there? No i wish there was.
