My Stay in Brazil - Megan

By Megan Rice - August 18, 2009

In Brasil, my goal was to try and experience new things. Going in I knew I would have to step out of my comfort zone in order to embrace the Brasilian culture. The first "culture shock" occurred at the Recife airport. Although I studied some Portugese, hearing and reading it, because it gave me the first glimpse of the days to come. During the drive to the beach and then to the beach house, I witnessed poverty for the first time. Just seeing how [some of] the people lived was enough for me to seriously appreciate the luxuries I have in America. Now I will always be more thankful for every meal and the shoes on my feet.

The beach house was a great way to experience how some of the "better off" Brasilians lived. The beach was absolutely beautiful, the hosts and maids were very kind, and the food was very different (but in a good way). Playing in another country was an amazing experience that I will savor forever. My greatest experience was with the Costa family in Belo Horizonte because I had a week-long view into the lives of Brasilians. They were kind enough to open their home and hearts to us and make us feel welcome. At the same time they shared their traditions and educated us on their way of life. I was sad to leave my host family because I won't see them again and I did not feel like I could thank them enough for their kindness and hospitality.

In Rio de Janeiro, we drove on a congested freeway so we had time to view the largest Futbol stadium in Brasil as well as the vendors who would try to sell their products to people stuck in traffic [on the freeway!].

On the beach, I bartered for my first time, which is a skill that has already proven useful to me back in the U.S. Relaxing on the Rio beach was one of the coolest things we did because we had time to buy jewelry, congas, bikini tops, and for me, a fossil!

Taking the train up to Corcovado was the first wonder of the world I have ever had the pleasure of viewing. All in all, this trip to Brasil is one I will remember for the rest of my life and has even inspired me to eventually visit other parts of our world.

Thanks again for this opportunity, Dave! Please say hello to the family for me!!!