The Carioca Lifestyle

I arrived into Rio de Janeiro around 9:00 AM. It was a very long flight and I happened to get no sleep. Luckily when I arrived at the airport none of that mattered. My senses were firing in every direction. The airport process in Rio was one of the fastest that I have ever been through in my life. With that being said, eventually after a pretty short drive I arrived at the Connection Rio house and was greeted by unfamiliar faces. Everyone was super friendly and helpful and the view from the CR house is breathtaking.

CULTURE:

So far one of the biggest differences for me is the culture. Coming from LA you are used to everyone being either grumpy or upset at the world. In Brazil there might not be the same thing, everyone is so helpful and friendly it is crazy. Smiles everywhere and very warm feelings. Everyone is so genuine here that it truly rubs off on you. 

I truly love how the beach is incorporated into the brazilian lifestyle. The beaches here are incredible and have the most breathtaking views. Clean white sands and beautifully clear water. This is surfing heaven for sure. 

TRAINING:

So far I have had the pleasure to train with the innovator of the half guard, Professor Gordo. His academy is less than one minute from the house and it is a beautiful academy. Nice and simple. Each class is great and is started off with a very solid warm up, then we go on to a technique. After the first one he shows a follow up to the move we just drilled. Then its time to roll. Every class there are at least 5-6 black belts on the mat, all rolling. So it is very good training. Within the next few weeks I will check out Checkmat, Alliance and GFTeam. Training everyday with high level black belts. What more could you ask for?

FOOD: 

So far this may be the best part of the trip, experiencing all the different types of food and the different ways they eat are so awesome. I may need to go to rehab for my açaí addiction but whatever. We are located near many great restaraunts and markets. The main market being the Mundial, which has your every day needs and the Camacha which is a restaraunt/bakery. When you come you should make sure to limit your açaí consumption, because you will need to go to rehab. 

OSS, Valeu!