Gridlock

I travelled in a bus today along the road next to Copacabana Beach, and could've walked faster. It really takes forever to get anywhere by road transport. The drivers are mad but marginally better than Romans. Did I mention that they drive on the wrong side of the road? I think I knew this, but it was reinforced when I narrowly missed being bowled over by a car travelling in the opposite direction from what I was expecting.
I am coping (just) in a non-English speaking country. People are very patient and helpful. Portugese really isn't like any other language i'm familair with. I can make out meaning when it's written, but struggle with fast-speaking Cariocas. They seem to love Australians, which i find embarassing considering that poor Brazilian kid died after being tasered in Sydney.
I'm getting good at pantomime
Not impressed by the cuisine..Lots of deep-fried things, pizza with too much cheese. However, sandwiches are good, and lots of fresh fruit juices. I haven't tried fejoada (sp?) yet. I'm struggling with the $24 cost for a peasant dish. Seems a bit incongruous.
Have I mentioned Caiparinhas? All that vitamin C must be good for you.