The coast of Brazil

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Our first stop down the Brazilian coast was at Ihla Grande, a large island covered in Atlantic rain forest. It used to be a quarantine island in the 19th century for ships coming over from Europe. Rio de Janeiro used to be the capital of Brazil and they didn't want to import any diseases there. Later the island became a prison and also had a coffee plantation. It was then decided to let it all grow back to natural rainforest and is now protected as are the surrounding waters. There are many walking trails through the forest with some lovely trees and occasional pool from the rivers which come down from the mountain. We took a leisurely stroll through the forest away from the hectic village then later back for a beer before joining the speed boat and then a tender back to SS Explorer our home for the next 10 days.

We have been on this Regent ship before. It is very well appointed. However we have noted a slight reduction in the service from some of the staff. Some are very good but not all. We have formed our "Tizwoz" Trivia team and have had one go so far not earning any points. Much room for improvement!

Bezios is a small town which would have been yet another sleepy fishing village if Brigitte Bardot had not been here and fell in love with the place. It now has two main streets filled with very interesting looking restaurants, souvenir and fashion shops. A lovely long narrow beach and a life size statue dedicated to Brigitte herself, a definite photo opportunity to sit with her!

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Comments

[andrew]

Is brigitte still there ,I'm on the next boat .Once had dinner with Britt Eckland but she was boring as all get out and wore her sun glasses in an underground restaurant Does that count.Dont have any photos . Charlotte has challenged me to a swimming race in June so I will be in town ,must get together .On my way to Costa Rica for my annual surfing and bar singing getaway. Maureen s coming with me this year, Filled the local playhouse with friends doing various musical things and will hit the ground in March with an editor for my book "Now where was I ,Tales of a romantic Idiot " of my travels when young and foolish . Hope to see you in June

[Tizwoz]

Brazil
Looking forward to seeing you in June. Do give us warning as we are busy!!