We spent plenty of time on the beaches of Rio–Copacabana, Ipanema, and Apoador.  We also joined our hostess Marta to a samba school, where they were preparing for Carnival.

Ipanema scene

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Upon arrival in Rio, we hired a guide and saw the city.  From the Christ the Redeemer statue to the Selaron steps, we saw the highlights.  We even got to meet the man himself, Jorge Selaron.  Unfortunately, he met his untimely death about three weeks after our visit.

With the man himself, Jorge Selaron

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We enjoyed the Brazilian side of the falls by visiting the local bird park, taking a rafting trip to the falls, and hanging out at the beautiful pool.

Almost under the falls

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