Brazil > Delta Flight or Not?

The last day has arrived. I repack my luggage for the flight back to the Netherlands. I also pack my gear for a delta flight over Rio. At ten o’clock, I am picked up from the hotel along with three other travelers for a spectacular gliding flight over the city. At ten o’clock, no one is there yet. Ten minutes later, still no one. After inquiring at the reception, it turns out they called. The wind on the mountain is too strong. Flying is not possible. I had not accounted for this option at all. A great disappointment takes hold of me. Maybe the weather will improve? Then we could still fly this afternoon. Marcio is not very optimistic, but maybe the weather will change, he says. What do we do now? We decide to take a taxi to the botanical garden of Rio. From there, around noon, we can try to contact Marcio. If possible, we could fly at 1 pm. The botanical garden was founded in 1808 by John of Portugal. The garden is beautifully laid out, with wide paths between various tree species. Small monkeys jump through the treetops.

Brazil - View of Ipanema beach

In a greenhouse, bromeliads and orchids stand. Through the Japanese garden and rose garden, I make my way back to the exit. Marcio has no good news. There will be no more flying today. Unfortunately. By taxi, we go to Ipanema beach. Ipanema beach has overtaken Copacabana beach as the trendy location. Mainly locals choose this beach, while tourists prefer the more famous Copacabana. We walk along the boulevard. It is the weekend and the beach is busy. As far as I can see, umbrellas stand on the sand. After a drink on the boulevard, the trip really comes to an end. I return to the hotel, take a shower, and change for the return flight. At six o’clock, I say goodbye to the fellow travelers who are staying longer in Rio de Janeiro. Without much delay, I arrive at the airport. I check in my luggage. In the departure hall, I order a hamburger sandwich. I had not eaten much today. Around nine in the evening, boarding begins. I put my backpack in the overhead bin and move to the window seat. The plane takes off.