There is tremendous inequality in the amount of wealth held by those in the different classes. One of the pleasantest parts of the trip was the four-day period I spent in Rio de Janeiro. The beaches are superb, the restaurants delightful, the nightlife exciting, the people graciousness itself. It has managed to preserve some of the older architecture, while at the same time giving every appearance of a vibrant, internationally smart city. The boulevards, the shops, the pace, all seem to suggest a European rather than an American city.
Brazilian food is delicious.
Feijoada is the national dish and resembles a rich stew made of various meats and sausages and served with rice, beans, oranges and other garnish. Jaca is exceedingly popular which grows almost watermelon size on tall trees. While in Rio I had the opportunity of meeting a Brazilian sociologist who regaled me with tales of life in a Brazilian university. Again, the model of the university is taken more from Europe than America. In any case, the two weeks I spent in Brazil were very productive and informative.