Welcome to Brazil!!!

Greetings from Angra, Brazil, where we have arrived safe and sound after an adventurous and delayed (twice) journey from the USA. As you can see from the photo, our young scientists are adapting well to their new surroundings. This particular photo was taken at our lunchtime restaurant where we stopped after landing in Rio this morning. I am happy to report that, unlike last year, no one was attacked by a giant frog.

After a few hours, I asked the students to tell me their first impressions of Brazil. They each commented on how beautiful and natural Brazil is. They have also taken note of the fact that receipts and napkins are very small, no doubt in an effort to conserve precious resources. Driving has made an impression on the group because it seemed scary and they were surprised to hear me comment on how excellent our driver was this morning. Of course, for most this is the first time out of the USA so I explained that most driving around the world is not as orderly and calm as it is in Dallas, Texas but that we are safe and that the locals here know their system and roads just as we know ours. So many new experiences already!!! And yes, the students immediately discovered the fabulousness that is Brazilian chocolate...

Our pousada, Pousada do Alemao, is a cheerful, colorful, multi-level wonder. It is the first time that we have brought a group here and we are really enjoying its beauty, warmth and breath-taking views. Here you can see the community area as well as the students' room and the beautiful view from my little terrace. Obviously, any challenges that we may have had in getting here were well worth it!!

Tomorrow we will explore the bay area and will do a little island-hopping and biological specimen collection with the help of local scientists who are colleagues and friends of Dr. Scott.. it should be a wonderful first day of class!!