GOING INTO THE JUNGLE FOR THE WORLD CUP
I joined Chris in the Bogota airport on 16 June , and we flew to Leticia, located in the middle of The Amazon Rainforest, one of Earth’s most vast and vibrant ecosystems. Fortunately I had the opportunity to explore the jungle 6 years ago at Juma Lodge because we had no time during this trip. That evening the USA played it’s first match of the Cup versus Ghana. It was a hard fought game, with USA winning 2-1.
We watched the next 4 days of matches on The Amazon River, traveling from Tabatinga to Manaus. This included Brasil’s 0-0 draw with Mexico, for which the boat stayed docked at a small town’s port, proving the stereotype that soccer governs the country. We also got to celebrate with the many Colombians on the boat after their 2-1 win over Ivory Coast. Granted the views of the Amazon River and Rainforest are magnificent but I would hate to think how slowly time would float by without The World Cup to entertain us on the boat!
We met up with our couch surfing host, Jesica, at her workplace to drop off our bags and continued exploring Manaus with a lighter load. We watched part of the Switzerland x France match on the big screens set up in the main square of the once booming trade city. We then enjoyed a free performance in the Opera House, highlighting the Portuguese culture and heritage of Brasil through song and dance. http://youtu.be/wHbQnfvcwUQ
The next day, Jesica showed us some more of the city, including the street voted most decorated in Brasil for the World Cup. Each countries flag was strung on rope with colored ribbons across the street and a mirror image drawn on the street surface. Brasilian players, symbols and the mascot Fuleco were also drawn in spirit of Brasil’s ‘Ruma au Hexa’ mission. We then went to FIFA Fan Fest on the revitalized riverfront beach of Ponta Negra to watch Germany draw 2-2 in their group match with Ghana. Later that evening her best friend, —-, joined us at the US Fan Club Party followed by a night cap at The Cachaca House.
The Schwiet Life 
looks like you are becoming quite the party monster! how will you ever return to the mundane!