Other things that are different in Brazil...the crazy road systems!!! Here in Cascavel almost all the streets are one way, so you end up doubling back on yourself a lot to be able to get to your destination! Im very glad I am not driving out here, I have a feeling I would be very confused...not that I am not confused walking...
The other day Monica (another British volunteer in the city) came over for lunch and we decided because it was a nice day to walk back to her house. The route on google maps looked easy enough and we set off in the sunshine chattering away! After an hour we thought we recognised the neighbourhood so asked in very basic portuguese where the "Rua Erico Verissimo" was. It seems that people here do not give directions by roads however, more by where things are in relations to buildings. So we received no help in this way! After another half hour we realised we were well and truly lost...and cue the rain. Here rain is not just a little drip every now and again, but literally as if someone is pouring a bucket over your head constantly! Within a minute we were soaked to the skin, but luckily are both here for "the experience" and felt that getting lost was an important part of this! Looking back the residents of Cascavel must have found us histerical wandering around in the rain laughing. We called Monicas host "mum" but again the language barrier found us without help, so we headed into an english school looking like we'd just swum over from England. Typical to the days events no english teachers were in but we had a conversation in portuguese (well....not conversation...more exchange of words!) that once again proved ABSOLUTELY NO HELP! By this point we had been out and about for 3 hours! Monica was worried about making it back in time for church and I knew my host "mum" would be worrying......Luckily for the both of us one of the women Monica had been working with, Miriam, came to pick us up! WE LOVE HER. So quite an eventful afternoon! But one of my best here I think, we managed to keep our spirits high and it definately was an experience haha.
Also this week Ive been for lots of walks around the city, seen some trees native to Parana this state of Brazil and these funny little bear-like creatures called Capybaras. They are so cute! Spent a lot of time with my host family for this week...feeling like I will be living here for four months, will be strange to move back next door! Gabi gets home on Monday from her holiday and I am very excited to start work with her...
Had a small taste of work yesterday when I visited Monica at one of her placements. Was a private language school specialising only in English. All the teachers were incredible! And the students very enthusistic and excited to hear an english speaker! However because of the influence of the US with movies, music etc they find it VERY difficult to understand my British accent!! All the books, cds and materials they use in the classroom are American based, so I think I will find that a bit of a challenge! VERY excited to start work now.
This week hasnt been as hard as I imagined. Am making sure I make the most of every moment. Right must dash, lots of Brazilian culture to soak up. Please email me :) lottiebarker@btinternet.com
i love hearing from back home! much love to everyone. xxxxx
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