Dash of Reality

What They Don’t Tell You About Rio Carnival

The city smells like urine
Which would be expected with the ample and free drinking going on but I would be lying if I didn’t cringe and die inside when walking most of the city wondering if the puddle I almost stepped in was rainwater or…

It’s more commercialized and less authentic
Let me be frank, it’s an epic frat party on spring break steroids. Some of the locals say the carnival in Salvador Bahia is better and more “real.” Not my words, but I can see why. Rio carnival was a blast but it was more a battle of the obnoxious and insane and who could be the superlative of both. I’d love to go back to Rio, but not during Carnival but I’d recommend it as a once in a lifetime travel destination. Read More

Six Miscellaneous Tips that will Enhance Your Trip

Bring two different sized locks

Hostels usually provide a space for you to lock your belongings. Some offer the lock and key, others just provide the compartment and it’s up to you to use your lock. The size of the metal loop may vary as I learned when my regular bulky lock was rejected for my itty bitty lock.

Download a currency converter app

This works no matter what country you’re in. It’s at your fingertips and it takes all the guesswork on conversion budgeting. Especially handy in countries where the bills are in the thousands such as in Colombia. Read More