The six hours coach ride from Rio is exceptionally comfortable. The driver isn't a maniac at all – I'm pleasantly surprised.
Long-distance coaches are a feature of travel in S America. The coaches are double-deck, and seating is spacious. I'm on a 'semi-cama' bus – recliner seats. There are many routes of 15 to 24 hours or more and these generally use 'cama' buses – fully flat recline seats, with at-seat meal service etc.
We're passing endless suburbs of 'Sampa' (S.P.'s city nickname). There are a few Favella here and there, then the buildings are looking tidier as we get closer to the centre. It's a big city – around the size of London, 10 million people. The residents of Sao Paulo have the nickname of 'Paulistas'
We pull into Sampa just ahead of schedule. I've heard that the main bus station (Rodoviaria Tiete) is not a good place to be. Woz is on his guard, S, America survival instinct is kicking in again.
Lo and behold, the bus terminal is not only huge – but also very spacious, clean and well signposted. There don't appear to be drug-crazed loonies with guns around – but ya can't be too careful Woz. Be aware at all times.I walk confidently and with a menacing look. That'll keep 'em away. Although I have to admit my ill-adjusted backpack and wheeled-holdall doesn't really contribute to my tough look.
My Couchsurf host has given me directions to her apartment – metro and then a bus. This is a breeze to me now. It's a twenty minute ride on the modern subway and then 40 minutes on a bus. I'm riding through the Sampa suburbs – the south side of the city.
Passing row after row of smart looking shopping malls and restaurants. It reminds me of the 'burbs in Chicago – or a number of North American cities, come to that
Everywhere appears pretty prosperous – the people on the bus seem normal – no one appears to be sizing me up as a precursor to robbing me.
The bus driver is steady and even remembers to advise me which stop I need to get off - and then lends a hand with my bags.
I'm well impressed.Have I an unfounded misconception of Sao Paulo?...
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angelica afonso de andre:
October 8, 2008
Dear Waren. Finaly, I´m taking a look in your blog. I´m glad that you were very welcome here!! That´s because you are a good man with a special eyes.
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