2/9/13

The first night of Carnaval was pretty cool... not as epic as I was expecting by any means, but cool nonetheless. I think, actually, I know, it was because we were stuck in Porto Alegre, and all the locals who make this place as much fun as it is leave for beach towns and such during Carnaval. That being said, it was still culturally exciting, and I enjoyed myself.

We went to go watch the traditional parades at this complex slightly outside of town last night around 10, and stayed until around 1 before we left. It was an impressive set up, with this avenue going in between bleachers for about a quarter of a mile where the different samba schools would give their presentations they had worked for months on. They were very elaborately decorated and well choreographed, and it was definitely a visual spectacle. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.

Only downside to the night was we went to a club afterward as a big group, and not only was it severely lacking attractive women, it was full of gay dudes, and I've never felt like such a piece of meat. It was seriously awkward. Now don't get me wrong, I'm by no means a homophobe! I could care less if my friends are gay, it's whatever to me, do your own thing. But the second I start to get hit on by a dude, or multiple dudes, or get super gay looks... like any other straight guy, I'm gonna freak out a little bit. I had never been so uncomfortable in a club setting.

Had a good nightcap though with the homies. And today has been chillin, we're about to go out again soon to go check out some parades which should be cool!

Then tomorrow we leave for Atlantida to go see Tiesto at Maori Beach Club! I'm too ready. I am expecting greatness. Hope all is well in the cold/snowy/rainy US!

~ 2/9/13