I have only been here a few days and will be here for a total of almost two weeks but I can safely say that this is my favourite city that I have been to in five months.

There is something undeniably magical about this place. Its aesthetics are unmatched (no more stunning city comes to mind) but then the charm of the people and Brasil’s rich culture are oozing from every corner of the city, from the cramped, winding streets of the haphazardly-built favelas to the ritzy hotel quarter in Copacabana.

I have started the last few days each morning with fresh fruit and oats for breakfast followed by afternoons spent at Ipanema and Leblon beach taking in sun, swimming in the warm turquoise water, and munching on the wide array of beach snacks vendors are selling, from frozen açai with granola and banana to freshly made caipirinhas. I…