We're back on U.S. soil, after an amazing adventure. We landed in Miami around 6am. After a layover, we'll land in Charlotte this afternoon. We're almost home, after 18 days of travel.
Our group of students were tremendous. They were eager to learn, try new foods, experience a new culture, learn the language and give up sleep in order to stick to a long, grueling tour/study schedule. They were a tough group of young ladies, and we're very proud of them.
This is an experience they'll never forget and that will open many doors in their academic and professional futures.
The group is sad to leave but we all miss our homes, friends and families. But, we're excited about all of the new friends we made in Brasil and the wonderful experiences we had.
Perfect weather for our last day in Rio, and our final day in Brasil.
We began by riding buses to the historic Santa Teresa neighborhood, which is known for its trolleys, art and authentic Rio cuisine. The neighborhood is quaint and full of character. Unfortunately, the famous trollies aren't operating as the city is upgrading the system for next year's World Cup.
Speaking of soccer/futebol, this city is crazy about the sport. Brasil was playing Japan last night in Brasilia while we were touring Rio. Each time Brasil scored, the tour guides celebrated. It was fun to experience.
Today, the group saw hundreds of soccer fans in the subway and on the streets of Rio, as Mexico and Italy were playing a match across town. We took time to watch the match and cheer for Mexico as three of the students on our exchange are from Mexico.
We ended the day and the trip with a few relaxing hours at Copacabana before heading to the airport for the long flight home.
It was the perfect ending to a great trip.
We arrived in Rio de Janeiro midday Friday - tired from a busy three days in Sao Paulo. We were able to explore the neighborhood around our hotel. We sampled the local food, browsed the merchandise of sidewalk vendors, saw street performers and enjoyed Samba music/dancing in Rio's cultural district.
On Saturday, we toured Sugarloaf Mountain - which features the "postcard" views of Rio de Janeiro. Unfortunately, it was rainy and cloudy, so we only caught brief hazy glimpses of the beautiful city and beaches. It was still quite impressive; it's hard to imagine how spectacular the views would be on a clear day.
The rainy weather finally stopped and we were able to see - by bus - several
Rio neighborhoods, its world famous beaches and a landmark Catholic church known for its unique architecture.
The stained glass windows were a sight to behold.
We finished the day with a visit to Brazil's most famous manmade wonder - the Christ the redeemer statue that overlooks the city. It looked like our weather luck was finally changing as we rode up the mountain, but the fog and clouds began rolling in as we climbed the stairs to the iconic statue.
The clouds moved through long enough for the group to take photos and see clear views of the city below before it got dark.
It was a fitting way to end our last full day in this beautiful city. On
Sunday we head home, but not before taking in a little more of Rio's culture and attractions.
After three busy days in Sao Paulo, our friends from IMPACTA hosted a fun goodbye gathering for our group.
Once again, we were able to see old friends from the exchange program and make new ones. Plus, the restaurant had an amazing rooftop view of Sao Paulo - another memorable experience.
A special thanks to our hosts Valderes, Maiza and Celio, as well as all of the IMPACTA staff and students who welcomed us. Several expressed a desire to return to North Carolina on a future exchange or on their own as a tourist.
We are fortunate to have these wonderful international relationships and opportunies. The last few days in Sao Paulo were a great reminder of that.
Next up is Rio de Janeiro, and then home.
On Thursday group visited IMPACTA - a world class technology university based in Sao Paulo. We were welcomed by the school's owner Celio, who also gave the group a tour. The "campus" is located in a high-rise on Paulista Avenue. The school owns 9 floors of the building - which is in one of the busiest and most expensive areas of Sao Paulo.
Our tour included the testing center, IT program area, the graphic design school, the student recruitment office and the student cafe - which had a New York City theme.
IMPACTA has served more than 1 million students during its history. For students of CCC&TI and Surry CC, it has a much different feel than the traditional, rural college campus.
Getting around Sao Paulo isn't easy. It requires either public transportation or lots of walking. Today we mainly walked, which is a great opportunity to see this bustling city up close. The public art and architecture are impressive.
Tonight we meet with IMPACTA students - most of whom have participated in the exchange by coming to CCC&TI.
Thanks to 14-year-old Joao (the son of our host in the Sao Paulo, Valderes) for this impromptu performance in the subway today.
It's good to know that all ages and cultures appreciate The Beatles.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFl2lpvrEpg&feature=youtube_gdata_player
