CARNIVAL

P.s. It is only a stage kiss - as seen by the costumes...

Anyway. Lets get up to date on some things.

CARNIVAL - With Verena here we opted for the communal carnival (rather than the "tourism" carnival of Rio) and it also saved us a small fortune in hotels etc. (and we had visited Rio before)

Heading to the historical mining and rural area of Minas Gerais (General Mines). It is known for its overwhelming hospitality, special foods, striking scenery and many colonial mining towns.

Mariana - many, many grand churches, once the administration centre of the gold mines in Minas once. During Carnival the town was closed to cars as all houses open their doors and windows to sell beers, water and coke. With three dancing areas (two with stages) also a chance to sample different music. besides that a parade with some very good floats considering the size of the town (one float had flowing water, lights, dancers etc.) Nothing like those in Rio or SP parade, but impressive for a few locals. Again showing the innovation and creativity that the Brazilians have.