Resort life is wearing on me so I point the bike north, after so many months and miles riding south this “north” concept still seems foreign to me. The plan is to continue along the coast as much as possible bypassing Sao Paulo and making my way to Rio de Janeiro, but not before visiting my friend Raf (miratesMT on advrider.com) in Volta Redonda.
I welcome the imagery as I get closer to Rio de Janeiro, it’s appealing and has a vibe that piques my curiosity. After too many long and eventless riding days I feel myself slipping back into a slow trajectory, something I look forward to as a traveler.
I call it quits for the day in the colonial town of Paraty where I arrive as some local festivities are underway. I find reasonable accommodations and I’m pleasantly surprised by the bountiful breakfast they offer the following morning. The food in Brasil continues to impress.
It should be a light riding day to Raf’s place so I don’t feel the usual rush to get on the road. I exit Paraty well rested and with a full stomach, a great way to start the riding day. I’m transported through lush vegetation and a gentle rise in elevation as I ride along the cobblestone roadways and through the dark tunnels of RJ 155 into Volta Redonda.
I spend a few days in VR enjoying the hospitality of Raf and his better half and taking in the markets and of course great food offerings. I’m always appreciative when someone takes me in on the road as it’s an opportunity to feel less like a tourist which can be tiring at times. Any place that has an ample supply of fresh pineapple is alright in my book.
Raf runs a tour company out of Rio and spends his days guiding travelers coming to Brasil for climbing, hiking, or just to take in the diverse culture. We spend some time at the shop and he’s quick to offer me intel on routes and points of interest in the region. Here are Raf’s contact details for those interested:
E-mail: Raf_kiss@yahoo.com
Phone: +55 24 98807 6248 – +55 21 97350 1551
Skype: mirantes-mototravel
http://riodejaneiro.angloinfo.com/
But our conversation always returns to Rio. It’s not very often I get excited about big cities but I have to admit I suffer from the mysterious allure that attracts thousands to Rio de Janeiro every year and I look forward to the ride there tomorrow.
Tags: ADV, Adventure Travel, Brasil, Brazil, KTM 950, Paraty, Rio de Janeiro, SE, Super Enduro, Superenduro, Volta Redonda