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Main | Journal: Carnaval, BR | ||
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Carnaval, Brazil February 16 Wow! I can't believe that tonight is going to be the final night of
Carnaval. As difficult as it may be for me to describe, I'm going to
do my best. The ingredients include a Thanksgiving Day Parade, an
unruly British soccer crowd, 30 rock concerts, 2 million adolescents
(I've never seen so many teenagers!) and maybe, another 1 million
people. Throw it all together and you get the biggest party that
you'll ever see. The people are packed tightly along the streets,
some in costume, some selling beverages, meat on a stick, corn, or
other assorted Brazilian delights. Last night, I hung out in a
makeshift outdoor bar/restaurant from the beginning of the parade
(around 7pm) 'til near the end (around 4am). It was, by far, my
favorite night of the Carnaval. I feel privileged to be a part of
Carnaval in Salvador because it is largely a local celebration. I
haven't seen many gringos like I probably would have in Rio. In fact,
I've spent time with a diverse group of people. My current roommate
is a Brazilian who shares the condo with my hostess. He showed me
around during one evening. For another night, I walked around with
four Israelis. I wished I had paid more attention in Hebrew school.
For the most part, I've been with a group of 8 or so Americans who are
teaching at a Pan-American school. I'm the youngest person here by at
least five years, and one of the people is in her fifties and working
in Bolivia for the Peace Corps.
Thanks to everyone who wrote to me. It's good to hear a quick line or
two to see how each of you are. I'm probably going to be here in
Salvador for a few more days then hit the road to Rio. All
suggestions, related to traveling, are welcome.
A word or two about Elliot's 'Reply to All'. A couple of ground rules
are in order. First, anything that you wouldn't want your mother to
see should not be included because my mom is reading this stuff too.
Second, no advertisements...unless you pay me a fee which can be
negotiated offline. Third, no forwards. I think we all get enough of
those anyway. That's all for now. I will succumb to Elliot's request
and add the 'Sperber Update' section because it will amuse you and be
a good way to remember why my load has lightened. I will not even
charge Elliot for naming the section after him, even though the
Detroit Tigers charged Comerica Bank $60 million for putting its name
on the new stadium.
Anyway, sorry for the lengthy e-mail--so uncharacteristic of me, but I
have unlimited time on this thing today and figured I'd take advantage
of it.
Regards,
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