Amanhã vou a Rio!

In the hours preceding my departure to a BRAND new country (well, brand new to me...from what I understand Brasil has been there quite some time...) I am becoming infected with the usual excitement that accompanies all new adventures. I am mostly packed and have made an extensive "DO NOT FORGET THESE THINGS" List so as not to arrive in Rio without my hair appliances and the appropriate power adaptors to make them functional. Must also not forget the Gilette Turbo Mach 3 Razor and Skintimate shave gel. With the non-existent swimwear there would not want to be left without a method for smooth skin.

WHY am I WRITING this??? And moreover why are you READING this???? Hehehehehe.

Speaking of swimwear, am seriously contemplating making use of the late night shopping tonight in The Hague and going in search of something new to wear to the beach. Talk about a horrible experience; I mean with those fluorescent lights in the changerooms and uneven tan lines it's the mental equivalent of force feeding yourself through a meat grinder. I think the plan will be to partake in a large glass of vodka followed by some recreational pharmaceuticals and THEN hit the shops. By that time no one will care, least of all me. (Editors Note: Have realised this process is far better done here where there are alternative options to the dental floss excuses they have for swimwear at the point of destination)

But I am looking forward to Rio, although the logistics of some of the meetings are causing a bit of strife and the interaction with a colleague who has proven to be a handful even though have just met online will also call on the utmost diplomacy (read: will most likely find it necessary to almost bite tongue off throughout the course of the week). Accommodations are also going to be interesting...our place is touted as the #1 Party Spot for visitors to Rio between the ages of 18-30. For the love of all things good on this Earth please just let the bathrooms be clean.

Have already signed up for the "Learn to Dance Samba" social event - move over Lola there's a NEW showgirl in town!

Will report from Copacabana upon arrival.

Must remember to study my Portuguese on the flight. It's not as if I won't have enough time...