Tchau meus amigos

I arrived in Fortaleza early Friday morning with Larissa. Although we're both extremely tired, we didn't want to waste our day sleeping. We had breakfast at Maredomus Hotel, the same hotel Amber and I stayed at during our first nights in Fortaleza, 7 months ago. Where has the time gone? I've been repeatedly asking myself this question for the past few months.

I had planned my trip so that I would spend my last weekend in Fortaleza. On Friday night, I went to the Nando Reis e os Infernais concert in Cumbuco. Although I didn't know any of the band's music, I simply enjoyed reuniting with the friends I came to miss during my travels. On Saturday night I took part in the Pre-Carnaval celebrations. I could hear the bands clearly from my apartment window. The streets were filled with street venders and Fortalezans enjoying the show. I've grown attached to eating street food in Brazil. Despite all the warnings to stay away, I can't resist street food. On Sunday, I spent most of the afternoon at beach for the very last time. For dinner I went to the fish market to enjoy my favorites dishes, camarao ao alho e oleo (shrimp fried in garlic and oil) and baiao-de-dois (rice mixed with cheese and beans). Later on that night I met up with more friends at Dragao do Mar for some drinks and final goodbyes.

It felt strange to know that my days were numbered. I jokingly asked one of my guy friends to elope with me so that I wouldn't have to leave. But of course I wouldn't resort to such extreme measures hahaha. I just have to make sure I come back to Brazil again.

I mostly spent the weekend reuniting and celebrating with the great friends I've met these past 7 months. Before I left for my travels, I thanked everyone that helped make my internship possible. This time around, I would like to thank the friends who have made my experience memorable. It can be difficult making friends in an environment where not too many people speak your language. However, the people I met were patient enough to teach me, correct me, and joke with me. From going to concerts to relaxing at the beach,  they always tried to include me in their plans. From singing Brazilian songs (the good and the bad) to learning local slang, we've made great memories and inside jokes together.

I'll miss all of the people I've met in Fortaleza greatly and I hope we can meet again soon.

Beijos galera!