WE ARRIVE IN RIO DE JANEIRO
BRAZIL TRAVELOGUE - DAY 7 - RIO DE JANEIRO BRAZIL

Yet another Varig sandwich later, we arrive at Rio de Janeiro International Airport at about 7:30pm on Saturday, November 5th - the 13th airport of our vacation.  As we depart the baggage claim, our pre-reserved transfer through Rio Apartments is nowhere to be found.  After waiting for about ten minutes, we cut our losses and take a special taxi to our apartment in Ipanema for about $67BR.  Rio Apartments was apologetic, though they said their driver was there, and refunded our money for this portion of the transfer.  They had previously picked up Bertil and Kicki, who had no issue at all - they were very happy with the service.

At the apartment, we are met by Sandra's mom, Kicki and her long-time beau, Bertil, who had arrived three days prior.  After a gleeful reunion, we check out the apartment - it's a three bedroom, three bathroom flat on the fourth floor, about four blocks from the beach.  The apartment is well-furnished and equipped with all the comforts of home - cable television, DSL internet, a washing machine, and a large balcony with patio furniture overlooking the street. 

There is 24-hour security with a doorman who doesn't speak English, but is always friendly.  Hardwood floors are decorated with black modern furniture, and there is a fully equipped kitchen.  The outlets are powered with 110V electricity with 2-pronged non-polarized outlets.  Luckily, we'd come fully equipped with adapters, so it was no problem.