Florianopolis - wish i could've stayed longer

So, my longest bus journey so far on the trip, and it was great. South Americans know how to do their buses. Real luxury this one, huge seat, virtually reclined into a full bed, and free hot & cold drinks and food, plus a free buffet along the way at a restaurant.

Finally arrived in Florianopolis, Brazil late afternoon, and shared a taxi with an Irish couple to a hostel which had been recommended by a few people. Hands down the best place i've stayed so far, and probably won't be topped. It was a big house with gardens, pool, lots of hammocks, and its own chef. Never been to a hostel with a chef. The breakfasts were amazing, fresh fruits, ham & cheese, breads, and a few different cakes, freshly baked each morning. The chef also cooks huge meals every night.

We opted to stay out of the main town on the main lake, the livliest area this time of year, with the beaches walkable.

After checking in we went for some food in at a weird restaurant that spilled out onto a petrol station forecourt, doesn't sound great, but it was really nice. A few drinks back at the hostel later and that was it really, bit tired after 20 hours journey.

Up early the next day to be greeted by sunshine and heat!! Not had that for a while, whipped the old shorts out of the bottom of the bag, and headed out to the best beach on the 'island' (its kind of an island).

The hostel dog followed us all the way, a 40 minute walk, and stayed with us all day, then walked us back to the hostel. That night, the chef prepared a huge Brazilian BBQ by the pool, which was amazing, tons of really good food, washed down with a few beers & Caipirinhas...

I was due to leave the next night, so up early again, and headed back to the beach, followed by the dog. Another lazy day in the sun, then a quick look around the town.

I had to be at the bus station at 20.30 for my 21.00 bus, as i still had to pick up my tickets, fill in forms etc.. I asked the hostel to book me a cab, as it's miles away, and a nightmare on the public transport. I waited for a while, and it turned out they forgot to book it. It turned up at 20.30. It's a 30 minute drive, so they apologised a lot and told the driver to put his foot down, which he did. Got to the station with 2 minutes to spare, then had to get my tickets. Just about got the bus, and i discovered, Brazilian buses are no where near as good as other South American buses. Still really comfy, but i've been spoiled the last couple of weeks.

Wish i could have stayed longer in Florianopolis, it's stunning, but need to keep heading north, booked more football tickets. This time a big match at the Maracana in Rio!!!

Sao Paulo here i come......

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