Around the Horn

Day 16 : Rio De Janeiro

What can I say about Rio.....A vibrant, pulsating city, alive with music, laughter and beautiful people. Its beaches are lined with  the most attractive  citizens  I have ever seen...I fell in love with Rio and its inhabitants.

While many of our shipmates prepared to disembark, we set out on a full-day tour of Rio and its attractions. We were given a tour of the city and its many beautiful beaches and parks, and then taken to the cable cars which would take us to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain to see the breathtaking view. A slight haze enveloped the city but did not detract from the magnificent panoramas on the mountaintop.We were given ample time to take photos and appreciate the view, and then it was on to the Corcodova train which would take us ultimately to the base of the statue of Christ the Redeemer, which was for me the most important part of our visit to Rio.

After disembarking from the train, we were instructed to take the first of 2 escalators which would help us on our ascent to the Redeemer. After stopping for panoramic photos along the way, we arrived at the base of the Statue.

This for me was the highlight of the entire cruise. To stand at the foot of this magnificent statue was both moving and awe-inspiring. A sudden rainshower limited our time at the summit, and provided some dramatic background with massive rounds of thunder. The rain let up in time for Susan and I to descend the marble steps of the monument and join our friends on the train back to the base of the mountain.

After a day in the fabulous city if Rio, we headed back to the ship. I can honestly say that of all of the ports I have visited on cruise ships. this is the first port that I have not wanted to leave. I felt a true sense of loss as I sailed away from this city. I will go back someday.

Tomorrow : At Sea