I spent Christmas in my host family’s hometown – Miraí , Located in the state of Minas Gerais.
As I was on vacation with some other exchange students in Rio, I travelled from there to Miraí with a friend of my host family, Flavia.
It was a beautiful journey, driving through luscious forests and mountain ranges!
Miraí was a breath of fresh air. It was the only city where, on my host family’s advice, I was told it was safe enough for me to walk around alone—not just during the day, but even with my camera to take photos.
My host siblings, their cousins, and I explored their grandparents’ ranch-like house, which was surrounded by pools, hills, streams, and tiny waterfalls.
At night, some of the cousins and family took me out to get an açaí boat! One of the best freaking things in Brazil! Where they showed me how carnival is like in this small city!
CHRISTMAS CAME! What an incredible experience! So much food, so much music, so much dancing. [I was a little homesick, not going to lie, especially after everything that had happened (like my bag and luggage being stolen at the airport)]. But Miraí was fantastic!
Our family then travelled all the way from Miraí to Vitória in Espírito Santo. Where we then spent a few days till New Years. I felt time was a social construct for the days leading to New Years – 2018! We’d go from the beach to dinner at night and repeat. In Brasil, theres a tradition where when the clock strikes midnight you jump in the first 7 waves making a wish. Also everyone wears white and bright colours – as symbol of peace, renewal, and hope for the coming year.
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEARS – Hers to 2018!
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