Some of the people I enjoy meeting the most as I travel are artists and street performers. They are people that are willing to take their talents and artistic ability and place it on display for the world to see. Some of them are in the realm of “meh,” but others are so intriguing and capture my attention. This was the case when I was leaving Sugar Loaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro (Pão de Açúcar).

Whenever I travel to Rio, I have a tradition on the last day before catching my flight to go up to the top of Sugar Loaf and watch the sunset before heading to the airport to catch my flight home. It is a breathtaking view, and the iconic mountain does not disappoint. I have had some amazing moments with friends on top of that mountain, and a trip to Rio must include a stop here. Taking the opportunity to go at sunset is breathtaking.

I was on my way down the cablecar and heading to the vehicle to go to the airport. As I was walking down the steps from the visitor center, I spotted this guy and was so intrigued by the instrument he was playing. It was part steel drum, part I have no idea what else. Most of the people had already left for the night, and the place was pretty much deserted. But this guy was just happily playing away. Almost as if he was enjoying the music personally.

I always ask a street performer if I can video them, and he said that it would be no problem. He made it seem effortless, and I was mesmerized. It was one of those moments where it feels like you have to try and decide if you should just absorb the moment and put away the camera, or if it is one of those that you want to be able to look back again and relive the moment.

I’m glad I chose the latter.

I know many people fail to stop for these moments. I can’t help but stop. It is like a breath of fresh air for me. These moments are a part of the soundtrack of my life and travel journey.

He finished playing, and began to put away his instrument. I placed some Brazilian Reis in his collection container and thanked him for the amazing gift.

The other part of my last day routine in Rio de Janeiro is to go and enjoy an all you can stuff into your belly meal at a Brazilian Steakhouse, also called a Churrascaria. This is an experience like no other. They give you a card that acts as a “Stop” and “Go” and keep bringing you meat until you flip that card over and tell them to stop.

My personal favorite Churrascaria is Fogo de Chao. My favorite location is the one in Botafogo that has a view of Sugar Loaf that you can take in on the patio (Av. Reporter Nestor Moreira, s/n – Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 22290-210, Brazil). You’re going to pay a minimum of $50 USD per person, plus drinks, but the all you can eat experience includes a salad bar, sushi bar and the trimmings. Trust me all you carnivores…your stomach will thank you!

They don’t open til Noon typically, so call ahead to verify times and make a reservation. Happy eating!

Sugar Loaf from Fogo de Chao