Rowing in Urca.

My apartment-mate has been a rower for a few years now, and last Saturday I ventured out with her to Praia de Urca to try rowing with her and her club. Let me just tell you know-- if you want the most spectacular view of Rio, I think you have to be in the water in the morning, when people are just starting to wake up, and there are hints of activity on the street. Girls running along Praia do Flamengo. Boys carrying their surfboards to the metro and the bus. Old woman getting ready for their morning walks.... You catch whispers of it all as you glide by in the water, right along the Sugar Loaf.

The practices are early (I have to be out the door by 5:45 AM), but it's worth it. To be that close to such amazing natural structures is something that can rarely be experienced, and I don't think it ever gets old. I went again today, and even though it was pouring (Saturday was warm and not a cloud in the sky), it was just as enjoyable as the first time.

If you're interested in rowing (clarification, it's called "remar" in Portuguese, but I think it's more canoeing that actually rowing/crew) there are several clubs in Urca. Just go down to the waters, ask around about the hours and sign up.

The prices I think are around 60 reais a month, but you'll probably need to purchase a paddle, which can run around 300 reais. A little expensive, but if you live in the city I think it's worth the investment.