First post of 2025.
So many adventures, so many memories I’d love to share yet somehow, words escape me. I’ve been in the trenches in 2024 and quite frankly, it was not an easy ride. Life has been lifing, as they say, but no matter what, the show must go on.
While waiting for inspiration to find its way back to me,I made a simple resolution for this year: say yes to every opportunity that comes my way. If that means a busy year ahead, so be it.
And what a start it’s been so far explosive, joyful and unforgettable.
Twelve hours on a direct flight from London Heathrow to Galeão International Airport, destination: Rio de Janeiro, to celebrate my birthday! I was joined by my partners in crime my sister and my niece and together we created the kind of memories that linger long after the tan fades. We spent ten sun-soaked days exploring three corners of the city: Centro, Copacabana, and Barra da Tijuca. Ten days of golden beaches, laughter, lazy mornings, and endless caipirinhas , a perfect cocktail of rest and joy.
Of course, ten days barely scratch the surface of a country as vast as Brazil, 8.5 million square kilometers of lush forests, towering mountains, and dreamlike beaches. But for me, ten days were just what I needed: sunshine, serenity, and soul.
If Rio is on your list don’t hesitate, book those tickets!
Just one small caveat: safety in Rio is something you have to keep in mind. If you do your research properly, everyone will warn you about it. And I can confirm, Rio can indeed be a relatively dangerous city for tourists. However, like any trip abroad, just be cautious: avoid flashy jewellery, leave your valuables behind, keep your phone deep in your bag, and no need to carry much cash, cards are accepted everywhere.
We chose not to venture into the favelas, especially since we were traveling with a minor and I’d advise others to use the same common sense. That said, our experience was overwhelmingly positive. In fact, we were treated like royalty throughout our stay.
And here’s something I didn’t expect — being a Black woman in Rio turned out to be a surprising advantage. That’s a deeper topic, one that deserves a post of its own. But for now, I’ll just say: thank you, Rio, for your warmth, your rhythm, and your soul.
To everyone dreaming of visiting: go. Experience it. And above all — stay safe
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