Back again, for my third blog! This time, I’m writing from the busy city of Sao Paulo, whilst sitting in a history class in Colegio Sao Luis; things are very different here to sunny Rio de Janeiro. I left there feeling like a Carioca, which didn’t settle too well with the students I have met here, apparently “Paulistanos” and “Cariocas” are not the best of friends!

As soon as I arrived, the differences between the two cities: Rio and Sao Paulo were transparent. Beginning, first of all with the tall buildings that characterise Sao Paulo: business centres, offices, banks, etc- that can be seen lining the impressive Paulista Avenue. The pace of life is also quite a significant contrast, in Rio people can be seen playing foot volley on the beach on a Monday afternoon, whereas on a Monday afternoon in Sao Paulo the streets are a sea of business suits and hurried faces preoccupied with getting back to work on time after lunch.

That said, the “Paulistanos” I have met and spoken to, especially the students at Sao Luis, have been very welcoming and friendly, and most of them eager to practice their English. Although, in Rio the general vibe of the city is one I much prefer. The Brazilian culture seems to be more pertinent there, and the people are a reflection of the vibrant, samba filled city.

But, before I get sucked into reminiscing about beautiful Rio... I will reveal a little about my awesome host family! Living with Renata and her family is one of the definite highlights about Sao Paulo, and the few days I have spent with her (about 5 days) have been lots of fun. From when we first met and gave each other a huge hug, and whispered throughout the entire introductory speech I knew we would get on!

Family life is very relaxed, and I was told to act like it was my home and help myself to any food. They feed me very well, and luckily Renata is vegetarian, so no need to worry about whether the meat is halaal or not. Twice a week the family have a yoga teacher that comes to their house, so on Monday I joined the session and attempted the stretching routines...which didn't always go too well! :P

I'm spending every week-day at Colegio Sao Luis, and have sat in, observed and took part in a variety of lessons, my favourite being Portuguese literature- not only beacuse I love lit but also as the teacher was very charismatic and was jumping all over the room as he taught. :)

One striking difference between British schools and Brazillian ones is the teacher-student relationship. Here in Colgeio Sau Luis, it is normal to greet a teacher with a huge hug and a kiss on the cheek. The students in Renata's class especially love their English teacher, and when he entered the room ... all of them ran up up to him squealing: "teacher, teacher"and giving him huge hugs ... which wouldn't really happen in Britian. This close, informal relationship is quite endearing, and the students feel as though the teachers are their friends.

I have about a week left with my host family and at this school..so will definately make the most of it. I shall update you soon!

Oh, and before I forget -- Sarah, I'm adhering to your request and you're getting a special mention here, and so are you Baj ... for those of you dont know, they are two sisters of mine. Missing you guys, you would love it here -- its amazing. Sorry, dont mean to make you jealous!.. :)

TCHAU!!! X