Gold Trail

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Thu

Off for a 2 hr stroll through the Atlantic Forest jungle to learn about the gold trail, a 1,200km boulder path built by slaves in 1695 to transport all the gold and diamonds from the interior of brazil ( Minas Gervais) to the port of Paraty. Very interesting, once we deciphered our French guides broken English. The fact that he looked like Mr Bean didn't help either. Warm but cloudy- ideal for us. After trail, head to the rock waterslide. I wimp out cause the waters freezing but after 15mins of video boys eventually go for it. Sliding down a 35deg rock slope on your bum over running water to end up in a deep ice cold rock pool is not my idea of fun. Back at apt for 1.30pm. Graeme and Tricia have conked out in the apartment this afternoon and Kevin got a Swiss army knife (R$10 that's £3 - no expense spared). Kev now dissecting every fruit in sight and I'm relaxing in outdoor bar overlooking river. Thunder and lightning, and heavy rain of course its teaming it down and barman just told me its I be like this for the next 5 days - constant rain!Rio outlook is better so we are considering heading there a day earlier than planned, if we can get the extra Saturday night in our pousada already booked for the Sunday. It's 4.30 and they're still asleep. Suspect we will head into old town (5min walk) to eat and listen to some live music. There are plenty of places to choose from and the craft shops are pretty cheap so no doubt some browsing to be done. At night sat in lovely restaurant recommended by our horse riding guide. Our most expensive meal so far at $R300 (£100)! After mixed starters Tricia and I had Giant shrimps (shelled) in a creamy sauce with rice, brazillian beans etc, lovely. Graeme a mixed seafood spaghetti ( enough for 2) and Kevin a steak!! Tomorrow its Trinidade beach, irrespective of weather. Chow for now

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