Crossing the boarder to Brasil was easy and interesting. The bus we hopped on in Uruguay does not cross the border. They had a pit stop on the road, which you then have to walk across. The main street had you standing between Uruguay and Brasil. You’d see two different languages on one side— there is Spanish and the other being Portuguese.
“This is wild!”
Tim and I thought
Strangely, the stamp to get on Brasil’s side was not required by foot (even though geographically you officially entered Brasil), it was needed later by bus.
At the border, we had a nice early dinner and the locals advised us to stay at least 30 minutes before the bus departure, no earlier. The bus station was quite sketchy and appeared as almost if closed down. However, once a gentlemen arrived, we got to meet his cute doggos. They were so kind and loving to one another.
In total, Tim and I spent a full week in Florianópolis, Brasil. The buses closed down due to the election of the new president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. It was shocking. Yes, cheers to the new presidency with locals. Tim and I having no idea after four days and the very next morning, the highways and big cities had huge protests. It struck us to be quite dangerous. Semi trucks blocked the freeways and people crowded the streets for at minimum 3 days. The buses were down from Floripa all through São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Luckily, we met the BEST homestay/hostel that took care of us in all of South America!
Accommodation:
On google known as— Suíte na Casa da Barra Hostelworld known as— Patz House Hostel
The dorm had a total of only 8 bunk beds and one private. The complementary breakfast was at your own time and quite filling. Served at your own time, you can chef up your eggs, ham, cheese, toast, have a side of granola, fruits, coffee and juice. Full kitchen set: knives, cutting boards, pans, gas stove or oven use. There are cups, plates, bowls and unlimited supply of water. Around the house, three different breeds of dogs welcome your entry and provide attention and love! Two hammocks are placed outdoors to enjoy the warm breeze and sunshine. Another hammock is provided indoor for a great reading space. You can relax here with peace and quiet as well as be walking distance to the beach. The little rooftop had a BEAUTIFUL sunrise and/or sunset (please see below).
There are many areas to Floripa (starting from downtown, to east coast and and north coast— all having different reputations). The South Atlantic oceans separates the main city by creating a large lagoon known as Lagoa da Conceição. The homestay is a 30-40 minute drive because of the drive around the lagoon- this region known as Barra Da Lagoa.
The next morning, the intended short visit turned into a whole day’s adventure! It started with Barra da Lagoa – Praia Mole, a hike that consisted several photo spots overlooking the ocean + one side faced the small town. The trail passes through 2-3 beach spots. We had no idea one would be a nude beach! The other beaches were regular low-key beaches with restaurants facing the ocean. At the final beach, there were companies providing paragliding services. We didn’t do that, but we did sand board as a fun surprise activity!
Along this hike we met a couple of people that became great traveling friends 💞 I miss them just thinking about it. We all four got to hike, sandboard, visit the city part of Floripa and celebrate live music at our hostel for Halloween!! 🎃
I enjoyed our stay even with being “stuck” I’m glad it was here. There are only a few cities that Tim and I have spent more that 5 days (maybe being close to week). This being one of the cool ones!
Once buses were up and running, we still came across traffic due to the election. All we could do.. is wait!
Beyond Rose 
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