Sao Paulo is for Lovers?: Carnaval Recap

I was a big fan of "Opposite Day" growing up-you know, a random day of the week was assigned the title "Opposite Day" and consequently we (highly intelligent first, second, and third graders) did the opposite of what we would have ordinarily done. Our Carnaval 2009 was like one giant opposite day. Brasilian after Brasilian (and the expats as well) headed to Rio, the beach, even Buenos Aires, but us? No-we headed to Campos do Jordao in the mountains. It was a great decision. We left Wednesday morning (after Carnaval was technically over) and made the 2.5 hour trip in 2.5 hours-that alone is a major accomplishment in this massive city. On a holiday? Amazing.
The hotel we stayed at was gorgeous and the grounds were filled with flowers and lavender. The hotel had a gigantic play room for kids (complete with a trampoline and ball pit), climbing structures, pool, and great common areas. The leaves had already started to change a bit and there was definitely a fall chill in the air. We broke out the sweaters and jeans and our swimsuits and shorts stayed packed. It was such a welcome change!
On Thursday we headed up to Parque Lenz where Noah and Sophie rode a zip line and played on the indoor playground. We hiked to a great view of the mountains and a waterfall. The weather was a bit wet, but it was still a great time.
On Friday we visited the adorable town of Capivari where we rode a train (more like a trolley) through the town of Campos do Jordao. It was a bit slow, but the kids were content with their Swiss chocolate lollipops. We went to the Baden Baden Brewery for dinner and enjoyed Capivari a little more.

This trip was great-I'd venture to say it has been my favorite so far. Less crowded and better weather than Rio. Cleaner and more kid friendly than Paraty. Just plain great.

There is much more to say, but it is Sunday night (after a full day of poolside lounging) and we have to work the ENTIRE month of March so I better rest up. Can you believe it? Four straight 5 day weeks? Hopefully these pictures will fill in the gaps!