Days 360–365 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
From the crisp autumn of Curitiba back to the sun-drenched embrace of summer.
I deeply regret ever listening to those who dismissed Rio as an unsuitable place to live—and I doubly regret only allocating a few days here. Rio is nothing short of extraordinary. On the day I departed, it marked exactly one year since I had left home. Time flows like the ocean—endless and profound.
The little Teresa train surpasses every sightseeing train I’ve ever taken. Passing beneath its iconic arch is merely the prelude to an unforgettable journey. It winds its way deep into the residential neighborhoods nestled on the mountainsides, weaving seamlessly into the lives of locals. The panoramic views of the lush peaks and shimmering sea are breathtakingly beautiful.
At that moment, I felt as though I had transformed into Zi Ling, so overwhelmed by the splendor that I nearly fainted with sheer joy.
After spending over half a year exploring South America, it’s rare for a bustling metropolis to captivate me this profoundly. Christ the Redeemer, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, may not quite measure up when compared to marvels like the Great Wall or Machu Picchu—but the vista from the mountain summit overlooking the entirety of Rio, where emerald peaks meet sapphire seas, is undeniably mesmerizing.
The deep azure sky merges seamlessly with the Atlantic Ocean, creating a boundless expanse of grandeur. This majestic panorama, coupled with the solemn religious aura, evokes both my insignificance in the grand scheme of things and the paradoxical sensation of harboring entire mountains, rivers, suns, and moons within oneself.
The sea in Rio defies comparison—it’s unlike any other I’ve encountered. I’ve always held a special affection for the sea, but Rio’s coastline takes it to another level: pristine white sands caressed by crystal-clear waters, often shrouded in a dreamlike mist throughout the day. Sometimes, the sunset blazes an intense crimson, devoid of even a trace of orange. It feels surreal—as if caught between a vivid dream and a cherished memory.
Rio has its challenges, of course; homelessness remains a visible issue. But beyond that, everything else about this city is pure magic.
On a side note, Brazil’s unwavering inclusivity toward the LGBTQ+ community has been nothing short of eye-opening. Walking through the streets, you’ll encounter people dressed and behaving in all manner of ways—yet no one bats an eyelid. This openness and acceptance have only made me love this place all the more.
And let’s talk about Brazilian women—they’re stunning. Their dark skin glows with natural beauty, their features delicate yet striking, and their style effortlessly chic. They possess an allure that outshines even their European and American counterparts.
Rio, in all its chaotic glory, leaves an indelible mark on the soul.
