Ilha Grande, Brazil

We´re now on an island off the coast of Rio called Ilha Grande - it´s paradise! Our pousada (hostel) is right on the beach, and we awoke to the sound of waves lapping and a buffet breakfast overlooking the sea. We took a boat trip round the island to visit one of the world´s best beaches, Lopez Mendes. The boat took us as far as it could and then we had to trek through the jungle to get there, but it was well worth the effort... saw some monkeys on the way and the sand was pure white and powder soft! Sam went belly-surfing, while the professionals showed us how you really do it on the bigger waves behind him.

We´re just about to get ourselves some paella for dinner and maybe a couple of cheeky caipirinhas!

Tomorrow we´re planning to go to Lagoa Azul which is apparently very good for snorkelling, and work on our tans some more... Jo's still standing out from the locals!