Sao Joao da Boa Vista

Boa Vista Means "beautiful view", and for me, this sums up the week. As we drove into the city we were greeted by a landscape of rolling pastures and blue skies. Although we all enjoyed the hospitality of our respective host families, Miguel and Giovanni took the lead in showing us all that this town has to offer. Giovanni gave us a brief lesson of Brazilian history and politics, and the assistant mayor instructed us on the town itself. From what we have seen, the country is not just concerned with growing its economy, but they are more concerned with positive growth and expansion. As we spent the week visiting public schools and social programs, a common thread continues to tie it all together. Local businesses are encouraged to invest in the local community. Local children are trained so they can one day be utilized in local businesses. Many successful programs we have seen function with little or no government funding. Rather, local industries contribute towards these vocational and technical programs with the knowledge that they are not only strengthening the commuity, but their workforce as well.
On Saturday we took an off road ride to one of the highest peaks in the area, where people come from all over the work to para sail and hang glide.  Some less adventurous people have also been known to sit on the grass and enjoy an adult beverage, while admiring the view and relaxing. Guess which category we fell into? 

 Once again, the hospitality shown to us has been amazing. Another week has flown by and we don't want to leave...but..., something tells me you will be hearing that again..

Tchau!