I had a hearty plate of steak, rice and beans at a little hole-in-a-wall diner a few blocks from the hotel. I actually wanted something else on the menu but they were out of all three items I wanted to try. I was happy with the dish I ended up having, but I was hoping that I would have maybe a side of vegetable to go with the steak (what was expecting?). The restaurant was part diner, part bar (and a juice bar too) and part convenience store — a one-stop shop for everything and anything you need.

Just to ensure that I’m getting enough vitamins for the day, I ordered an acai smoothie which were bright purple and delicious. My boyfriend called me on my Blackberry while I was dining there and I suddenly got home sick (yes, I was the strange Asian girl chomping down on steak and fried egg with watery eyes!). I really wish he was in Brazil and sharing these delicious food and experiences with me. I miss him, and my friends and family, very much.