Ilhabela - A Breath of Fresh Air!

After a few days in Ilhabela, we have decided that this is the place to be, and the next South Atlantic Race must come past here. In fact, we decided that only a few hours after arriving. The friendliness that we have received from the locals here is (thus far) unprecedented for us in Brazil. These guys all seem to be happier and more jovial. Most of the Brazillian people who we've met so far have had the attitude of the lady who sits behind the counter at the licensing department or the dept. of home affairs in South Africa. Not all of them - but most.

Yacht Club Ilhabela is much smaller than Iate Clube do Rio de Janeiro, but I think it works in its favour. We have been allocated a swing mooring, as well as a few days of free access to the club. We have been signed in as the guests of our friends Jose and Maia who we met in the Rio race. They were on Mussulo, and are perfect examples of the hospitality that we have seen in Ilhabela. Great chaps. The club has a swimming pool and a restaurant right next to a deck overlooking the sea, as well as a little stretch of beach. There is a buffet breakfast on weekends which (I would go so far as to say) is the best I have ever had. But that may be swayed by many days/weeks of eating boat-food. The waiters and security are courteous and friendly, and really try. There is no bullshit or rigmarole getting in or out of the club, they just greet you with a smile and wave you in. I left my tablet charging in the club when we went out for dinner one night, and when we arrived back at the club, the security knew it was mine from the background photo and the guy called me over to give me my tablet which had been handed in. The legends even put it on charge for me!

We haven't done much exploring of the island yet. We've been told that there's a lot to see. The last few days have been dedicated to spending a bit of time off the boat, enjoying the club facilities, and arranging some of the boat stuff that we need (mainly batteries and gas). We also have decent internet, so everyone has been doing some catch-up on Facebook and e-mail situations. I have done a bit on my Masters, but need to apply some concerted effort now.

With Carnival time about a week away, we were toying with the idea of going back to Rio and getting in the thick of things, but the consensus now is not to backtrack and to carry on moseying down the coast. There seems to be a really nice vibe here. They have decorated the church with ribbons and flags, and there's a stage with live music on most nights in the town square. It does get a liiiiiiiiittle bit crowded when the cruise ships offload all their passengers, but who am I to complain?

Thinking about you all back home, and missing you!

Bren