Hi All:
I made it back safely to the States. I was sorry to leave Brazil but now I am happy and anxious to be back at home.
The Silveria family really went out of their way to make sure I had a great experience at the Kurotel, Gramado and Brazil.
Initially when I learned that Kurotel was near Porto Alegre - I had the impression it was going to be in a remote and rural area. Not so. Gramado is somewhat on par with the exclusive Sundance/Colorado scene - very cultured, educated, upscale, rich, beautiful, no crime, very European, etc They are known for the cinema awards for independent film and their Christmas celebration which I have heard is spectacular. Some of the Brazilians told me they don't even like going to Rio because it is so crazy and dangerous so this was perfect. I am not sorry I did not add a few days here and there by myself because I wouldn't have enjoyed it by myself.
Well - it is nearly time to pack up the laptop, leave the "Top of the Port Restaurant" where I have camped out the last couple of hours and go through security for my final flight. What have I missed and what's been happening with everyone????? Anyhow - ciao!
,
Saturday, May 30, 2009
To Mom
Dear Mom,I was hoping you would be on aol - because my cell phone died which means I can't call you until I am in LA - and have access to my car charger - which is another 6-7 hours or whatever.
The flights were fine. I have only one more to go. I left yesterday at 2 pm from Kurotel in order to make it to Porto Alegre - which is 1-2 hours away depending on trucks and traffic. A lot of winding single roads with one truck or one slow car - delaying whatever small traffic stacks up behind it - but my driver was a pro at timing some very slight of hand weaving along curvy roads and oncoming traffic. I wasn't worried. The ride back was very pretty - lush green landscapes with big canyons. We stopped at a Buddhist Temple that at the top of a mountain - the main route was blocked so we went up a cobblestone road that was something else. The elevation was so high my ears were popping but I am so glad that we did - because it was worth the effort and was so pretty. I tried to pick up a little gift for Kath there but their credit card machine wasn't working so it just wasn't meant to be.
check out there website http://pt.chagdud.org/en/ - I wish I could find the photo section for you - the views were spectacular.
I am hoping that you will log on soon - because in 15 minutes I have to go back through security!
Love,
The flights were fine. I have only one more to go. I left yesterday at 2 pm from Kurotel in order to make it to Porto Alegre - which is 1-2 hours away depending on trucks and traffic. A lot of winding single roads with one truck or one slow car - delaying whatever small traffic stacks up behind it - but my driver was a pro at timing some very slight of hand weaving along curvy roads and oncoming traffic. I wasn't worried. The ride back was very pretty - lush green landscapes with big canyons. We stopped at a Buddhist Temple that at the top of a mountain - the main route was blocked so we went up a cobblestone road that was something else. The elevation was so high my ears were popping but I am so glad that we did - because it was worth the effort and was so pretty. I tried to pick up a little gift for Kath there but their credit card machine wasn't working so it just wasn't meant to be.
check out there website http://pt.chagdud.org/en/ - I wish I could find the photo section for you - the views were spectacular.
I am hoping that you will log on soon - because in 15 minutes I have to go back through security!
Love,
- From 5/8/2009
I lost track of time and had to ask what day it was only to be disappointed that it was already Friday. I would have been on a plane right now if I hadn't changed my plans.
I skipped the walk today and did laps. Then for 30 minutes had my own private PT instructor since 2 other guests were a no show. With the arrival of one - the class turned into semi-private for remainder of the hour. After that I did more water walking. I figure - I work out an average of 2 hours but today was a little less. I had meeting with a doctor about behavior modification to lead a healthier lifestyle that was actually very interesting and helpful. He kept it under 10 steps:
8 Steps to a Making Healthy Changes
1) Maintain a weekly agenda
2) Schedule physical activity
3) Say when instead of no
4) Snack between meals - no more than 3 hours between meals and snacks
5) Make identifiable portions. No eating over the kitchen sink or grabbing a handful of something
6) Make small pre-made snacks and have allocated snacks at 10, 3 5 and 10
7) Make lists
8) Officialize free time and make a list of enjoyable activities
After that was a medical consultation to review my body assessment - muscle mass vs. fat. Not good and not terrible. I have 12 lbs of fat to lose - not weight - fat. The good news is - I lost 4 or 5 lbs but more importantly about an inch or more around my waist. Hard to tell in their units of measure but I can convert everything when I get home.
On another note:
I did the water circuit again and the most notable thing was a wedding party that was having professional photographs taken in the area I was suppose to be relaxing in so I wished them congratuations and went on my merry way to an incredible massage experience. Two people massage exactly in unision in touch, tempo, and pressure - pressure points first and then short, brisk strokes with hot oil that are in synch with Brazilian drumming music. In an especially large room with an especially large massage area that was custom made - a wooden platform about knee high with a 3 inch thick mattress. After the massage - you are guided to a private bath - the music continues and there is a light at the bottom that alternates colors from blue to red to green in the water. I had had 3 bath treatments today - so as much as it was cool, I got out early and spent a little time relaxing infront of the tile water feature. It was in a special area that had 4 ultra contemporary white wicker s shaped recliners with white cushions. Infront was the blue tile water feature with a row of recessed blue lighting for drama.
After that - I was schedule to have a private massage with Joice - my favorite mt - upstairs in the exclusive tr
eatment room - opposite my suite - available only to guests staying in 1 of the 4 suites. She's great - the view outside the window was pretty as the sunset over the landscape. Onto a sauna - where the new group was particpating.
Strange to have a man in a small bikini in the wet sauna. I wasn't exactly comfortable so I curtailed the sauna and headed to the last treatment of the day - fango - the heating pad made of mud.
On to dinner and then a lovely time listening to bossa nova and samba and some music from the US from a pair of singers. How cultured and civilized this experience has been. I love the idea of retiring to the living room after dinner to enjoy live music and sip tea served in china cups and saucers with demitasse spoons. How absolutely lovely.
That's been my day. I really don't want this to end but all good things must come to an end. Or so they say.
I really enjoyed meeting Rochele - one of the four daughter - she is very open and accessible and easy to talk to and I enjoyed our conversation.
It is past my bedtime!
I skipped the walk today and did laps. Then for 30 minutes had my own private PT instructor since 2 other guests were a no show. With the arrival of one - the class turned into semi-private for remainder of the hour. After that I did more water walking. I figure - I work out an average of 2 hours but today was a little less. I had meeting with a doctor about behavior modification to lead a healthier lifestyle that was actually very interesting and helpful. He kept it under 10 steps:
8 Steps to a Making Healthy Changes
1) Maintain a weekly agenda
2) Schedule physical activity
3) Say when instead of no
4) Snack between meals - no more than 3 hours between meals and snacks
5) Make identifiable portions. No eating over the kitchen sink or grabbing a handful of something
6) Make small pre-made snacks and have allocated snacks at 10, 3 5 and 10
7) Make lists
8) Officialize free time and make a list of enjoyable activities
After that was a medical consultation to review my body assessment - muscle mass vs. fat. Not good and not terrible. I have 12 lbs of fat to lose - not weight - fat. The good news is - I lost 4 or 5 lbs but more importantly about an inch or more around my waist. Hard to tell in their units of measure but I can convert everything when I get home.
On another note:
I did the water circuit again and the most notable thing was a wedding party that was having professional photographs taken in the area I was suppose to be relaxing in so I wished them congratuations and went on my merry way to an incredible massage experience. Two people massage exactly in unision in touch, tempo, and pressure - pressure points first and then short, brisk strokes with hot oil that are in synch with Brazilian drumming music. In an especially large room with an especially large massage area that was custom made - a wooden platform about knee high with a 3 inch thick mattress. After the massage - you are guided to a private bath - the music continues and there is a light at the bottom that alternates colors from blue to red to green in the water. I had had 3 bath treatments today - so as much as it was cool, I got out early and spent a little time relaxing infront of the tile water feature. It was in a special area that had 4 ultra contemporary white wicker s shaped recliners with white cushions. Infront was the blue tile water feature with a row of recessed blue lighting for drama.
After that - I was schedule to have a private massage with Joice - my favorite mt - upstairs in the exclusive tr
eatment room - opposite my suite - available only to guests staying in 1 of the 4 suites. She's great - the view outside the window was pretty as the sunset over the landscape. Onto a sauna - where the new group was particpating.Strange to have a man in a small bikini in the wet sauna. I wasn't exactly comfortable so I curtailed the sauna and headed to the last treatment of the day - fango - the heating pad made of mud.
On to dinner and then a lovely time listening to bossa nova and samba and some music from the US from a pair of singers. How cultured and civilized this experience has been. I love the idea of retiring to the living room after dinner to enjoy live music and sip tea served in china cups and saucers with demitasse spoons. How absolutely lovely.
That's been my day. I really don't want this to end but all good things must come to an end. Or so they say.
I really enjoyed meeting Rochele - one of the four daughter - she is very open and accessible and easy to talk to and I enjoyed our conversation.
It is past my bedtime!
Day ? - What Day is It?
An active day since I had added walking to my schedule starting at 8 am (and my given schedule started an hour later) So walk walk walk...and I enjoyed talking with a Brazilian attorney. 2 private trainers for 3 walkers. A good ratio. Gramado is a very pretty small city with many beautiful and pretty houses. There was a good nip in the air this morning but by the end of the walk I was hot and sweaty. I noticed the trees turning color - and it reminded me of Albany - very scenic. They have the same trees here - the one with the big leaves that turn yellow then red - oak? I don't know...
After the walk - I skipped the Kneipp cold water walk and headed straight to breakfast (which I was suppose to have before 9 but with the added 1 hour activity - it was hard to do since my wake up call was at 7:30.
Anyhow - having breakfast made me late to aqua class but I caught the last 15 minutes and then added 30 more of lap swimming and then an additional 15 of treadmill. That was enough exercise for the day.
It is interesting with the group dynamics - it changes as new people come and go but it is nice that I am always welcome at a table and most people are generally warm. There is a new group that is staying in my wing (the special suites) and they haven't mixed with the rest of us. I mention the dynamics because there are lots of opportunities for conversation and mixing with others - at our "snack time", group sessions, passing in the hall and meal time. It sure does make it nicer to mix. There is one fellow who is just keeping to himself but that seems a hard way to go. Actually there are a handfull that prefer to stay by themselves.
In the morning I had 2 relaxation experiences - the navigator which I already reported on and the "NASA chair" which is a recliner that tilts so you are prone to the ceiling and moves left to right in a slow circular motion while a projection shows stars and what looks like a version of the milky way. With calm music in the background. 20 minutes later, the attendant changes the setting so it looks like a million little bubbles, stars or beads of glass. I liked it. The Brazilian attorney didn't. You have to go with an open mind and be receptive... if you let your mind go with it - it is novel, relaxing and actually fun. I added that one to my own schedule.
Lunch was served and the amount of plain lettuce on the plate - as beautiful and fresh as it was - I thought - oh I am going to have to work at eating that. Chew chew chew. Like a cow. Lunch was chicken and dessert was some kind of coconut pudding which I actually think is delicious.
Then I relaxed for a bit on my patio - listening to the fountain below, collecting my thoughts for a meeting, collecting my things for the meeting and off we go to the meeting. Before my meeting, I gave my box of TJ chocolates to the clinic staff that have been giving me massages, water treatments and relaxation treatments all week long. I said "por mi amigas - from los estados unidos" I put my finger to mouth "shhhhhh" and they all started laughing. It was a good move - easy to do and made 10 people very happy.
Since I had gotten dressed up - and everyone walks around in bathrobes, swim suits and work out gear until dinner - I received a few questions and I was eager to change back into my robe. I met with a nutritionist and we talked about my food schedule, what I eat, when I eat it, how much I eat etc. She said 1800 is what my body needs to function but that when I go home my goal should be 1500 and here, at 1200 - is a way to readjust and jumpstart the process.
Then I had a
wonderful bath upstairs in the private wing - with my private attendant- and hammed it up in some photos . Then downstairs for a different set of baths - mud and sea salt and a water circuit. The water circuit was like a huge jacuzzi - made for many people to enjoy, walk in the warm water, sit with their backs to the jets and there is a resistance path - where you walk against the water current and at the end there is a jet for thighs and knees and 2 more water sprays above - for neck and shoulders. It is like the Roman bath down there....all educated people speaking in different languages and being very gracious to each other.
One of retired businessmen and I met days ago in the hallway and he told me Kurotel exceeded his expectations. Today when I asked if I could include him in the article and needed his last name - he said yes and paused and said "my last name might be a problem in the US" Foecker. You can imagine. He told me that his business is Foecker Industries and he had a focus group give him feedback on it from an international perspective. Thumbs down. So know it is Roeker. I laughed pretty hard when he told me he was trying to give baseball hats with Foecker Industries and the recipient politely refused the gift.
Dinner was fine. I was really tired and as our group grew bigger - there was more Portuguese being spoken and I could get bits and pieces and fairly often things were translated but there was a lot of polite smiling on my part while long stories were being told. I was too tired for more of this - and the rest adjurned for tea. How civilized!
If I am too tired tomorrow- I am not going to start the day out with an hour walk! Happily tired but very tired.
When I walked into my suite - there was gift in a beautiful Kurotel bag - I have no idea what it is - and I think I might just wait until I get home to open it.
After the walk - I skipped the Kneipp cold water walk and headed straight to breakfast (which I was suppose to have before 9 but with the added 1 hour activity - it was hard to do since my wake up call was at 7:30.
Anyhow - having breakfast made me late to aqua class but I caught the last 15 minutes and then added 30 more of lap swimming and then an additional 15 of treadmill. That was enough exercise for the day.
It is interesting with the group dynamics - it changes as new people come and go but it is nice that I am always welcome at a table and most people are generally warm. There is a new group that is staying in my wing (the special suites) and they haven't mixed with the rest of us. I mention the dynamics because there are lots of opportunities for conversation and mixing with others - at our "snack time", group sessions, passing in the hall and meal time. It sure does make it nicer to mix. There is one fellow who is just keeping to himself but that seems a hard way to go. Actually there are a handfull that prefer to stay by themselves.
In the morning I had 2 relaxation experiences - the navigator which I already reported on and the "NASA chair" which is a recliner that tilts so you are prone to the ceiling and moves left to right in a slow circular motion while a projection shows stars and what looks like a version of the milky way. With calm music in the background. 20 minutes later, the attendant changes the setting so it looks like a million little bubbles, stars or beads of glass. I liked it. The Brazilian attorney didn't. You have to go with an open mind and be receptive... if you let your mind go with it - it is novel, relaxing and actually fun. I added that one to my own schedule.
Lunch was served and the amount of plain lettuce on the plate - as beautiful and fresh as it was - I thought - oh I am going to have to work at eating that. Chew chew chew. Like a cow. Lunch was chicken and dessert was some kind of coconut pudding which I actually think is delicious.
Then I relaxed for a bit on my patio - listening to the fountain below, collecting my thoughts for a meeting, collecting my things for the meeting and off we go to the meeting. Before my meeting, I gave my box of TJ chocolates to the clinic staff that have been giving me massages, water treatments and relaxation treatments all week long. I said "por mi amigas - from los estados unidos" I put my finger to mouth "shhhhhh" and they all started laughing. It was a good move - easy to do and made 10 people very happy.
Since I had gotten dressed up - and everyone walks around in bathrobes, swim suits and work out gear until dinner - I received a few questions and I was eager to change back into my robe. I met with a nutritionist and we talked about my food schedule, what I eat, when I eat it, how much I eat etc. She said 1800 is what my body needs to function but that when I go home my goal should be 1500 and here, at 1200 - is a way to readjust and jumpstart the process.
Then I had a
wonderful bath upstairs in the private wing - with my private attendant- and hammed it up in some photos . Then downstairs for a different set of baths - mud and sea salt and a water circuit. The water circuit was like a huge jacuzzi - made for many people to enjoy, walk in the warm water, sit with their backs to the jets and there is a resistance path - where you walk against the water current and at the end there is a jet for thighs and knees and 2 more water sprays above - for neck and shoulders. It is like the Roman bath down there....all educated people speaking in different languages and being very gracious to each other.One of retired businessmen and I met days ago in the hallway and he told me Kurotel exceeded his expectations. Today when I asked if I could include him in the article and needed his last name - he said yes and paused and said "my last name might be a problem in the US" Foecker. You can imagine. He told me that his business is Foecker Industries and he had a focus group give him feedback on it from an international perspective. Thumbs down. So know it is Roeker. I laughed pretty hard when he told me he was trying to give baseball hats with Foecker Industries and the recipient politely refused the gift.
Dinner was fine. I was really tired and as our group grew bigger - there was more Portuguese being spoken and I could get bits and pieces and fairly often things were translated but there was a lot of polite smiling on my part while long stories were being told. I was too tired for more of this - and the rest adjurned for tea. How civilized!
If I am too tired tomorrow- I am not going to start the day out with an hour walk! Happily tired but very tired.
When I walked into my suite - there was gift in a beautiful Kurotel bag - I have no idea what it is - and I think I might just wait until I get home to open it.
Forgot to mention
From this morning to this afternoon - I lost a kilo - I think that might be half a lb. not sure.
I am bushed. I worked out 2.5 hours today - which for me is a lot.
Love
Lis
I am bushed. I worked out 2.5 hours today - which for me is a lot.
Love
Lis
Day 5 - Where did the Day Go?
It is 7 pm and I am wondering where the day went.
It started out with a wake up call - a voice I recognized - Miguel who is the Kurotel Hotel Manager who worked the night shift. Lucky him. I was lucky enough to change my return flight from Friday to Sunday which means I will return home on Monday afternoon. Just enough time in the week to complete my assignment for Tulare Hospital. I was invited to stay a few extra days and so why not? Who could resist. And since the stars seemed to align - I did. Yahoo.
It took me about 30 minutes to accomplish this feat. So that means I was running late. I skipped breakfast and was one of two guests who were bused to the Lago Negro with a personal trainer for walking. At 8 am it was chilly and there was a small fog rolling off the lake - very pretty - and the morning sun and dew made it an especially pretty walk. Thankfully there were no hills, inclines etc. The lake is a tourist area - but not in an overutlized type of way. There are paddle boats for rent either in the shape of pirate boats or swans, a restaurant and the rest is nature with geese and ducks and huge hyderangea bushes which in season, must be spectacular. Hyderanga - ortenzia in Portuguese - is the flower of Gramado.
After an hour's walk at a moderate level - I was ready for breakfast. Everyone started their schedules so I ate alone but not for long because I wanted to make it to the dance class which started at 9. (the walk was from 8-9). So I enjoyed my two pieces of bread, 3rd of papaya and 2 cups of coffee - in fact, snapped a photo to show you all what breakfast looks like...and off to check out Fernando which the earlier group that had left last Sunday raved about. I technically, am not suppose to participate because of my back, but I know my limits and was allowed and encouraged to go. When I arrived, I got a big welcome from the small group and I loved every minute of the class. Latin American music - and when the Gypsy Kings came on - I practically didn't miss a step. It was great - no hip or back motion, no twisting, just foot work - easy repetitive steps - that I could easily do. Pick up the temp and after 30 minutes - I had worked up a sweat. Fernando wore itsy bitsy lycra shorts and a tank top and is a real character that everybody loves because of his enthusiasm. He was so pleased when I told him I loved the class. I am glad I went and pushed myself to go.
Next - 30 25 minutes on the treadmill. You know how that goes. Next a snack which was a fruit smoothie made for "constipado" which I experienced yesterday. The nutritionist said I would receive this every day. I had been excited to weigh in this morning but was the same weight. By the way, the nurse last night when I tried relaying my problem didn't speak English and was trying to rouse a translator at 9 pm. No thanks...I asked to use the internet at her desk and found a great site where you put in the sentence and hit a button- and presto! Instant translation. She communicated the same way back.
I told you already about fango and the relaxation treatment called the Navigator - those were next on the schedule - then lunch. Lunch was nice because I have 2 English speaking Brazilians who have started to join my table. I don't sit at the private tables for 2 but rather sit as the large table so who ever would like to join me can...this promotes conversation which is great. So we talked about herbs, food, lifestyles, Brazil, etc. And before I knew it - time to move again. I swam for 30 minutes then had a water treatment which was canceled because of technical problems - major ones - that meant they had to break through tile to get to the pipes in the area of the fitness center adjacent to the pool. Hmmm. now what? So back downstairs. I now know to ask for Joice Marianne who give an excellent massage - top to bottom, back to front. I will have to ask if the massage strokes are "Kur" technique...long strokes and there is always the same pattern. Mid back, low back to upper back, slide one foot out of the sheets, foot, toes and ankle, stroke upwards from calf to thigh, up to gluts, next leg, turnover, arms, stomach, above chest, neck and shoulders, head, earlobes, face and forehead.
Anyhow...on to a test in which your fat is measured by a new piece of Xray technology manufactured by GE - Kurotel and the hospital in Sao Paulo were the only 2 facilities to have this available in Brazil- if I understood correctly. Then on to a psychology consult - that came as a surprise. Apparently everyone receives on and is asked - why are you here and what would you like to achieve? With the goal being lifestyle or perception changes that you can take home out of this lovely protected environment in order to live a healthier life. I thought this was great time to discuss my back and how I have had a tough time adjusting to limitations. It should be interesting. I think I might have a follow up appointment tomorrow or the next day.
Now is dinner time - dinner is from 7-9. I don't mind eating at 8 pm since the lecture tonight is in Portuguese and I won't understand it. So the staff translated the lecture for me and invited me to talk to the guest lecturers or write down any questions and they would be happy to have them answered.
What else? I met the COO of the facility today - and the Director of the Health Clinic - and ran into the owner today yesterday and today - both times in my bathrobe. She was really eager to show me the wedding book of her daughter knowing how impressed I was with the family farm. She said she'd like to join the meeting tomorrow - which is very positive - since I had been told it would be the COO , my international contact, and her daughter.
Well - now I am really hungry. I worked out 2.5 hours today -in addition to al lthe back and forth and up and down staircases to get to the pampering and relaxation appointments
It started out with a wake up call - a voice I recognized - Miguel who is the Kurotel Hotel Manager who worked the night shift. Lucky him. I was lucky enough to change my return flight from Friday to Sunday which means I will return home on Monday afternoon. Just enough time in the week to complete my assignment for Tulare Hospital. I was invited to stay a few extra days and so why not? Who could resist. And since the stars seemed to align - I did. Yahoo.
It took me about 30 minutes to accomplish this feat. So that means I was running late. I skipped breakfast and was one of two guests who were bused to the Lago Negro with a personal trainer for walking. At 8 am it was chilly and there was a small fog rolling off the lake - very pretty - and the morning sun and dew made it an especially pretty walk. Thankfully there were no hills, inclines etc. The lake is a tourist area - but not in an overutlized type of way. There are paddle boats for rent either in the shape of pirate boats or swans, a restaurant and the rest is nature with geese and ducks and huge hyderangea bushes which in season, must be spectacular. Hyderanga - ortenzia in Portuguese - is the flower of Gramado.
After an hour's walk at a moderate level - I was ready for breakfast. Everyone started their schedules so I ate alone but not for long because I wanted to make it to the dance class which started at 9. (the walk was from 8-9). So I enjoyed my two pieces of bread, 3rd of papaya and 2 cups of coffee - in fact, snapped a photo to show you all what breakfast looks like...and off to check out Fernando which the earlier group that had left last Sunday raved about. I technically, am not suppose to participate because of my back, but I know my limits and was allowed and encouraged to go. When I arrived, I got a big welcome from the small group and I loved every minute of the class. Latin American music - and when the Gypsy Kings came on - I practically didn't miss a step. It was great - no hip or back motion, no twisting, just foot work - easy repetitive steps - that I could easily do. Pick up the temp and after 30 minutes - I had worked up a sweat. Fernando wore itsy bitsy lycra shorts and a tank top and is a real character that everybody loves because of his enthusiasm. He was so pleased when I told him I loved the class. I am glad I went and pushed myself to go.
Next - 30 25 minutes on the treadmill. You know how that goes. Next a snack which was a fruit smoothie made for "constipado" which I experienced yesterday. The nutritionist said I would receive this every day. I had been excited to weigh in this morning but was the same weight. By the way, the nurse last night when I tried relaying my problem didn't speak English and was trying to rouse a translator at 9 pm. No thanks...I asked to use the internet at her desk and found a great site where you put in the sentence and hit a button- and presto! Instant translation. She communicated the same way back.
I told you already about fango and the relaxation treatment called the Navigator - those were next on the schedule - then lunch. Lunch was nice because I have 2 English speaking Brazilians who have started to join my table. I don't sit at the private tables for 2 but rather sit as the large table so who ever would like to join me can...this promotes conversation which is great. So we talked about herbs, food, lifestyles, Brazil, etc. And before I knew it - time to move again. I swam for 30 minutes then had a water treatment which was canceled because of technical problems - major ones - that meant they had to break through tile to get to the pipes in the area of the fitness center adjacent to the pool. Hmmm. now what? So back downstairs. I now know to ask for Joice Marianne who give an excellent massage - top to bottom, back to front. I will have to ask if the massage strokes are "Kur" technique...long strokes and there is always the same pattern. Mid back, low back to upper back, slide one foot out of the sheets, foot, toes and ankle, stroke upwards from calf to thigh, up to gluts, next leg, turnover, arms, stomach, above chest, neck and shoulders, head, earlobes, face and forehead.
Anyhow...on to a test in which your fat is measured by a new piece of Xray technology manufactured by GE - Kurotel and the hospital in Sao Paulo were the only 2 facilities to have this available in Brazil- if I understood correctly. Then on to a psychology consult - that came as a surprise. Apparently everyone receives on and is asked - why are you here and what would you like to achieve? With the goal being lifestyle or perception changes that you can take home out of this lovely protected environment in order to live a healthier life. I thought this was great time to discuss my back and how I have had a tough time adjusting to limitations. It should be interesting. I think I might have a follow up appointment tomorrow or the next day.
Now is dinner time - dinner is from 7-9. I don't mind eating at 8 pm since the lecture tonight is in Portuguese and I won't understand it. So the staff translated the lecture for me and invited me to talk to the guest lecturers or write down any questions and they would be happy to have them answered.
What else? I met the COO of the facility today - and the Director of the Health Clinic - and ran into the owner today yesterday and today - both times in my bathrobe. She was really eager to show me the wedding book of her daughter knowing how impressed I was with the family farm. She said she'd like to join the meeting tomorrow - which is very positive - since I had been told it would be the COO , my international contact, and her daughter.
Well - now I am really hungry. I worked out 2.5 hours today -in addition to al lthe back and forth and up and down staircases to get to the pampering and relaxation appointments
Day 4
Wake up call at 7. Nurse check slightly delayed due to other patient with the same thought. Beeline to the dining room. I couldn't wait for breakfast. This time there was a fresh lavender arrangement on the table. Coffee? Yes! I say "mas, mas, mas" as they about to curtail the stream of coffee into my china cup. I get a look but they comply. There is a two cup limit so I maximize the pour in the cup - and the wait staff is on to me. I am looking forward to panne. Out come a little stack of 4 crackers. This must be the warm up. I ask them if this is all of breakfast - yes, and my face falls in disbelief. The waiter asks what's wrong and I tell him that I love the bread and fruit and that I it is my favorite meal of the entire day. No problem - the crackers are whisked away and whole wheat bread and 1/4 of a papaya are delivered. I need something in my stomach for the one hour walk that is ahead of me. I visited the nurse as we are asked to do before breakfast to report on our digestion, sleep and she takes blood pressure. Today was weigh in - I lost 1.3 lbs so far.
The group walk is good - I talk to ma
n who is here with his father - we are so busy chatting -that we quickly become the last 2 out of the group. But I did work up a sweat. We walked by lovely houses, hotels and a lake. The influence in Gramado is German and Italian and you can easily see the influence in the architecture - very Bavarian, Alpine-ish and there are lots of Italian restarurants - wouldn't I like to try one! We did the cold Kneipp walk - after which felt good on hot sweaty feet.
Next I was scheduled for a water class but since I was running late from the walk - Pass. I did the treadmill for 30 minutes. Then on to fango and another Kneipp bath for circulation improvement.
Lunch was good. I had a lovely conversation with a woman who had come here half dozen times but the more interesting conversation was with an attorney who came to relieve his stress. He is going through all sorts of customized treatments, cognitive therapy, smoking cessation, weight loss - the works.
The best part of my day was the private driver they had arranged to take me o
ut this afternoon. First to the "zoologica" which is dedicated to the plants and animals of Brazil only. They also are a rescue center - they do not buy or catch the animals. I thought this was a wonderful concept and although small, very well executed with natural habitat and good planning of paths and pens. Lots of exotic birds - toucans, etc and 3 different kind of monkeys - one was the size of my cat with the smallest human looking face and bright yellow fur on his legs. Another kind were black with very long, thin limbs and it was fascinating to see how they swing and move and use their tail - another kind were small brownish ones and there was a mama with her newborn baby. Of course my favorite were the cats - that were enclosed but they came right up to the glass and one was very curious and I got some great pictures. Snakes - big anaconda - with a big head and beady eyes. After that - I was taken to "Mini Mundo" which is a place of miniature recreations of airports, churches etc.
The driver was very nice but didn't speak a word of English, Spanish, German or French - not that I speak German or French but I asked in Speckenzie Deutch and Parlie vous Francaise - no. So communication was very creative. I called upon my very limited Spanish, Italian and lot of gestures and facial expressions which seemed to do just fine for the most part. He mentioned canela - which I thought was the word for water fall - turns out it is the town of Canela. Canela also means cinnamon. There was a very pretty Catherdral the driver wanted me to see.... And THEN, got to see an impressive cascading waterfall from a look out tower which was very cool and we walked down a ways where there were 971 stairs if you wanted to get to the bottom and look up. My guide told me he did it once in his life. 971 down. 971 up.
I was very interested in stopping at a chocolate shop since Gramado is very famous for its chocolates. I was all to happy to be offered a sample or three. On to the center of town - I thought and I kept asking for a geleteria or pasticerria and I thought he understood but I guess not. We returned to Kurotel and I didn't have the heart to ask for a translation and make him drive back to town. I would have liked to have gone shopping but I had a doctor's appointment and sauna waiting for me...and since Kurotel upgraded me to a private suite in a private wing with its own hospitality area - yes your read that right...I didn't want to stand the doctor up or do anything that might be considered the least bit ingrateful or rude. I had to unpack all my things - which took 30 minutes, then off to sauna, the doctor who suggested I take velarium every night to sleep better and then back to my room to change for dinner and after dinner -
yes our little group went off in private cars to 1 of 4 glass factories in all of Brazil. Very nice work. Kurotel had secured a translator especially for me (everyone else is Brazilian) so I could understand the glass making process which i thought could not have been more gracious. The attentinon to detail has been amazing here. I was asked to help with the demonstration of blowing glass and blew into a long pipe. Later the translator told me that owner was going to give me the piece I helped make. Now isn't that impressive? I could really get used to this!
and here I am. i was welcomed home with a fruit snack and my schedule for tomorrow.
Goodnight!
The group walk is good - I talk to ma
n who is here with his father - we are so busy chatting -that we quickly become the last 2 out of the group. But I did work up a sweat. We walked by lovely houses, hotels and a lake. The influence in Gramado is German and Italian and you can easily see the influence in the architecture - very Bavarian, Alpine-ish and there are lots of Italian restarurants - wouldn't I like to try one! We did the cold Kneipp walk - after which felt good on hot sweaty feet.Next I was scheduled for a water class but since I was running late from the walk - Pass. I did the treadmill for 30 minutes. Then on to fango and another Kneipp bath for circulation improvement.
Lunch was good. I had a lovely conversation with a woman who had come here half dozen times but the more interesting conversation was with an attorney who came to relieve his stress. He is going through all sorts of customized treatments, cognitive therapy, smoking cessation, weight loss - the works.
The best part of my day was the private driver they had arranged to take me o
ut this afternoon. First to the "zoologica" which is dedicated to the plants and animals of Brazil only. They also are a rescue center - they do not buy or catch the animals. I thought this was a wonderful concept and although small, very well executed with natural habitat and good planning of paths and pens. Lots of exotic birds - toucans, etc and 3 different kind of monkeys - one was the size of my cat with the smallest human looking face and bright yellow fur on his legs. Another kind were black with very long, thin limbs and it was fascinating to see how they swing and move and use their tail - another kind were small brownish ones and there was a mama with her newborn baby. Of course my favorite were the cats - that were enclosed but they came right up to the glass and one was very curious and I got some great pictures. Snakes - big anaconda - with a big head and beady eyes. After that - I was taken to "Mini Mundo" which is a place of miniature recreations of airports, churches etc. The driver was very nice but didn't speak a word of English, Spanish, German or French - not that I speak German or French but I asked in Speckenzie Deutch and Parlie vous Francaise - no. So communication was very creative. I called upon my very limited Spanish, Italian and lot of gestures and facial expressions which seemed to do just fine for the most part. He mentioned canela - which I thought was the word for water fall - turns out it is the town of Canela. Canela also means cinnamon. There was a very pretty Catherdral the driver wanted me to see.... And THEN, got to see an impressive cascading waterfall from a look out tower which was very cool and we walked down a ways where there were 971 stairs if you wanted to get to the bottom and look up. My guide told me he did it once in his life. 971 down. 971 up.
I was very interested in stopping at a chocolate shop since Gramado is very famous for its chocolates. I was all to happy to be offered a sample or three. On to the center of town - I thought and I kept asking for a geleteria or pasticerria and I thought he understood but I guess not. We returned to Kurotel and I didn't have the heart to ask for a translation and make him drive back to town. I would have liked to have gone shopping but I had a doctor's appointment and sauna waiting for me...and since Kurotel upgraded me to a private suite in a private wing with its own hospitality area - yes your read that right...I didn't want to stand the doctor up or do anything that might be considered the least bit ingrateful or rude. I had to unpack all my things - which took 30 minutes, then off to sauna, the doctor who suggested I take velarium every night to sleep better and then back to my room to change for dinner and after dinner -
yes our little group went off in private cars to 1 of 4 glass factories in all of Brazil. Very nice work. Kurotel had secured a translator especially for me (everyone else is Brazilian) so I could understand the glass making process which i thought could not have been more gracious. The attentinon to detail has been amazing here. I was asked to help with the demonstration of blowing glass and blew into a long pipe. Later the translator told me that owner was going to give me the piece I helped make. Now isn't that impressive? I could really get used to this!
and here I am. i was welcomed home with a fruit snack and my schedule for tomorrow.
Goodnight!
Day 3
Today I was very happy to see my breakfast of bread, coffee and fruit. The quality is very good, the presentation on china (they have their own Kurotel brand) is very nice. Chargers are used. Fine napkins at dinner. A change of flower arrangement each morning. A smiling staff that gives you instructions on what supplements to take before and after your meal. There are 2.5 staff for each guest so you are waited on hand and foot. This morning I enjoyed a conversation with a couple from Amazonia - but unfortunately they left today.
What was my schedule today? Water therapy followed by water therapy followed by treadmill. Fango treatment which akin to a au natural organic version of a heating pad. Mud is harvested from the family farm - then sifted, boiled and treated with glyercin to form a thin rectangular 1/2 inch brick. The brick is placed in specially ordered German heating oven and you lie directly on the brick so that the heat and mineral content is absorbed into your back or whatever problem area you have. Very interesting.
Another massage. A facial. A consult with a doctor regarding my lack of sleep who prescribed velarium - a natural herb that promotes sleep. The doctor was so young and hip. Then a Kneipp sauna where you sweat for 7 minutes , take a cold shower and do this 3 times and rest for 2 minutes to stabliize blood pressure - it promotes circulation. Everything Kneipp is about contrasting hot and cold. About the treatment rooms - they are all white - everything from floor to ceiling is spotless and completely white. Greenish blue colored glass is used to let in some light as a design element but the whole look from the uniforms to the treatment tables, robes, linens - white white white and contemporary - ultra mod. There is a treatment called the navigator where you are escorted to a small room with one wall looking like ripples of water. Lie down on a water mattress and they cover your eyes, put a blankie over you, play water music and turn off the ligths. The mattress has a pulse to it -a slight vibration in the in the middle of the back which feels great. Another room has a "NASA" chair which you feel weightless - haven't tried that yet. The ceilings of these rooms have cool rectangular slices of light - not sure if it flurosecent but they are colored slices of green or blue or orange light which is pretty dramatic.
Then off to the family farm called Quinto do Alpha - this was the best part of the day.Our hotel manager was dressed in Gaucho garb and the overseer of the farm was there to meet and greet us and give us a tour. Totally fascinating. 5 years ago the family built a farmhouse and grounds by collecting and reusing all of the brick and wood used to build to make it look old - they wanted to have the Provence look with a Brazilian influence. Everything inside is old and has history to it. They collect silver, wine, antique riding equipment, antique farm tools, antique silver pieces. On the farm, there are horses, chickens, and cows. The cows are not eaten - only used for milk production which means the milk in the coffee is straight from the farm! They also sell the milk locally. So are the vegetables that we dine on - all the lettuce,tomatos carrots, etc are grown locally on this private family owned farm. All organic. They also have their own pharmacy for their farm animals on premise. How cool is that? This family doesn't own a business - they own an empire!
Dining in the farmhouse was great. They had an old fashion fireplace and a long plank table where 10 of is were seated and ate with real silverware. It was the best dinner yet - salmon with some sauce that I could have licked clean with my finger if there weren't so many people around. I thanked the chef and he was thrilled.
My report for the day.
What was my schedule today? Water therapy followed by water therapy followed by treadmill. Fango treatment which akin to a au natural organic version of a heating pad. Mud is harvested from the family farm - then sifted, boiled and treated with glyercin to form a thin rectangular 1/2 inch brick. The brick is placed in specially ordered German heating oven and you lie directly on the brick so that the heat and mineral content is absorbed into your back or whatever problem area you have. Very interesting.
Another massage. A facial. A consult with a doctor regarding my lack of sleep who prescribed velarium - a natural herb that promotes sleep. The doctor was so young and hip. Then a Kneipp sauna where you sweat for 7 minutes , take a cold shower and do this 3 times and rest for 2 minutes to stabliize blood pressure - it promotes circulation. Everything Kneipp is about contrasting hot and cold. About the treatment rooms - they are all white - everything from floor to ceiling is spotless and completely white. Greenish blue colored glass is used to let in some light as a design element but the whole look from the uniforms to the treatment tables, robes, linens - white white white and contemporary - ultra mod. There is a treatment called the navigator where you are escorted to a small room with one wall looking like ripples of water. Lie down on a water mattress and they cover your eyes, put a blankie over you, play water music and turn off the ligths. The mattress has a pulse to it -a slight vibration in the in the middle of the back which feels great. Another room has a "NASA" chair which you feel weightless - haven't tried that yet. The ceilings of these rooms have cool rectangular slices of light - not sure if it flurosecent but they are colored slices of green or blue or orange light which is pretty dramatic.
Then off to the family farm called Quinto do Alpha - this was the best part of the day.Our hotel manager was dressed in Gaucho garb and the overseer of the farm was there to meet and greet us and give us a tour. Totally fascinating. 5 years ago the family built a farmhouse and grounds by collecting and reusing all of the brick and wood used to build to make it look old - they wanted to have the Provence look with a Brazilian influence. Everything inside is old and has history to it. They collect silver, wine, antique riding equipment, antique farm tools, antique silver pieces. On the farm, there are horses, chickens, and cows. The cows are not eaten - only used for milk production which means the milk in the coffee is straight from the farm! They also sell the milk locally. So are the vegetables that we dine on - all the lettuce,tomatos carrots, etc are grown locally on this private family owned farm. All organic. They also have their own pharmacy for their farm animals on premise. How cool is that? This family doesn't own a business - they own an empire!
Dining in the farmhouse was great. They had an old fashion fireplace and a long plank table where 10 of is were seated and ate with real silverware. It was the best dinner yet - salmon with some sauce that I could have licked clean with my finger if there weren't so many people around. I thanked the chef and he was thrilled.
My report for the day.
Day 2
Breakfast - hallelujah - I am hungry. It was actually great - I was worried they would not serve coffee. 2 cup limit. I will take it! About 1/3 of papaya, 1/2 oz of cheese and a slice of homemade dense whole wheat bread. The woman from Peru called me over and introduced me to her table which was nice because it set up the remainder of introductions starting with a small bus shuttling us off to Black Lake - a beautiful park. Lots of interesting conversations and no language barrier. We walked for an hour and upon coming back - did a treatment where you walk in freezing cold water over uneven stones in a maze. It's suppose to increase your cir
culation. I bet! Everyone laughed about the cold and complained about their feet.
Every person's schedule is customized depending on their condition and what they want to achieve. Because I have my back problem, I was
given a red bracelet (alert!) while there are 2 other color coded bracelets regarding what activities you are allowed to do. The good news is - I get private treatments instead of group classes. How wonderful! Finally - my injury totally works in my favor. They scheduled another 30 minutes of treadmill, then on to "Hydro floating" which is a total misnomer. It was aqua aerobics with a flotation device. Hands down - I was the best in the class among regularly fit people - it made me feel very strong and active. I loved it. Then guess what - another walk in cold water. This is a German based therapy called Kneipp - which alternates hot and cold for healing. What next? An "underwater massage" which is another Kneipp Kur. It is a super bath tub where you hook your feet under to secure and immerse yourself with 
an array of strategically placed jets that are timed and have different strength of water power. Pick one of 3 herbal remedies - mine was for muscle relaxation, but you could choose bergamont for vitality and "increased libido" or some other choice. I am simplifying the herbs but I can't remember all that was described.
Snacks are given at 10 and 3 more or less depending on your schedule. A snack is about 3 sips of a fruit shake or about 1/4 cup of tiny pieces of cut fruit. These are very important according to the nutritionist because they will keep you from getting headaches. I forgot to mention the no water rule. No water 20 minutes before a meal or 1.5 hours after dinner. Why? Saliva breaks down food and when you drink water you tend to swallow your food and not chew it. Also saliva has enzymes that break down the food and the stomach has an acid environment to promote breaking down food and when you slug back water, you are diluting the stomach acid so food travels down the bowels in bigger pieces. Apparently causing you to fart more - well ok, the nutrition nicely said it creates more gas and bloating.
Lunch - I don't remember what it was. But I am sure every bit was delicious!
Next a kur massage - and this massage was way better than yesterday's. A whole hour. From my ears to my toes. They also massage your stomach. Strange feeling. That wasn't my favorite part but maybe they are massaging the fat away. haha.
Biogenerization. Whisked away to a special room, 3 metal netted pads are placed on your head, abdomen and feet and you hold on to two metal rods. Electrical current rebalanced your body. I didn't feel anything but I sure liked the dark room, the music, the covering over my eyes....I think I fell asleep.
My nutritional interview I just told you about but in between that and another treatment the hotel guest relations manager - Miguel - gave me a detailed tour and more history.
The water station circuit - I thought it was going to be that cold walk again - and I was going to skip it. Glad I didn't - to a the day spa portion of the property - which just opened 2 months ago. You relax in a tub of hot water with mud (not heavy) which has mineral properties -good for ?? not sure but I know it must be very good for you! Then switch to another tub - of ??? something white and foamy that smells good and it must be good for you too! I will have to ask my English speaking hostess. Not all the spa attendants speak English.
Then a bath in a big beautiful pool like area - with a water fall from the ceiling - the water pressure feels very good on your back - not so much on your cabeza. Finally a shower - with the soap, shampoo and conditioner that is the private line of Kurotel. They have their own cosmetics line. They have their own pharmacy where they compound and create the healthy supplements that are given at lunch and dinner depending on your customized program. I am taking sea algae to make me feel full. I wonder how hungry I would be without it? In fact I am hungry right now and the box of chocolates is less than a foot away.
Each day, (I learned today) you are suppose to report in to the nurse ( 24/7 duty!!!) to have your blood pressure taken and report on sleep or anything else you might want to share (like digestive problems).
Welcome cocktail takes place once a week on Sundays - which is when new guests usually arrive. We are handed a small flute of champagne (non alcholic) and half a small glass of either fresh strawberry, pineapple or melon juice to go with our 4 allotted bite sized appetizers that are hand-served. One guest took all 4 at once. I took mine one at a time and joked with the server that he miscounted. There was a musician who played piano, guitar and sang. He asked if I had a request and since he hadn't played the Girl from Ipanema - and it reminded me of Dad - I asked and he gladly played. He had a very nice voice and I was surprised when he played Ring of Fire from Johnny Cash in a low, low voice. There were a few of us who sat on the couch and listened and it reminded me of an era long gone by - retiring to the music room - how civilized.
Dinner was more soup, fish and this time peas with a fruit gelatin. The fish is very good. Small but good. I had a lovely conversation with a couple that live in Amazonia which is 7 hours away by plane. Brazil is one big country! They said I made a good choice not to travel alone to Rio or Sao Paulo - that it is not safe and that Gramado is a wonderful place filled with cultured Europeans - very little crime - very well to do. Heck, can I pick locations or what?
Well, I am hoping that a snack will arrive soon but it is 11 pm so maybe not.
Love,
A thinner me ( i sure hope!)
culation. I bet! Everyone laughed about the cold and complained about their feet.Every person's schedule is customized depending on their condition and what they want to achieve. Because I have my back problem, I was
given a red bracelet (alert!) while there are 2 other color coded bracelets regarding what activities you are allowed to do. The good news is - I get private treatments instead of group classes. How wonderful! Finally - my injury totally works in my favor. They scheduled another 30 minutes of treadmill, then on to "Hydro floating" which is a total misnomer. It was aqua aerobics with a flotation device. Hands down - I was the best in the class among regularly fit people - it made me feel very strong and active. I loved it. Then guess what - another walk in cold water. This is a German based therapy called Kneipp - which alternates hot and cold for healing. What next? An "underwater massage" which is another Kneipp Kur. It is a super bath tub where you hook your feet under to secure and immerse yourself with 
an array of strategically placed jets that are timed and have different strength of water power. Pick one of 3 herbal remedies - mine was for muscle relaxation, but you could choose bergamont for vitality and "increased libido" or some other choice. I am simplifying the herbs but I can't remember all that was described.Snacks are given at 10 and 3 more or less depending on your schedule. A snack is about 3 sips of a fruit shake or about 1/4 cup of tiny pieces of cut fruit. These are very important according to the nutritionist because they will keep you from getting headaches. I forgot to mention the no water rule. No water 20 minutes before a meal or 1.5 hours after dinner. Why? Saliva breaks down food and when you drink water you tend to swallow your food and not chew it. Also saliva has enzymes that break down the food and the stomach has an acid environment to promote breaking down food and when you slug back water, you are diluting the stomach acid so food travels down the bowels in bigger pieces. Apparently causing you to fart more - well ok, the nutrition nicely said it creates more gas and bloating.
Lunch - I don't remember what it was. But I am sure every bit was delicious!
Next a kur massage - and this massage was way better than yesterday's. A whole hour. From my ears to my toes. They also massage your stomach. Strange feeling. That wasn't my favorite part but maybe they are massaging the fat away. haha.
Biogenerization. Whisked away to a special room, 3 metal netted pads are placed on your head, abdomen and feet and you hold on to two metal rods. Electrical current rebalanced your body. I didn't feel anything but I sure liked the dark room, the music, the covering over my eyes....I think I fell asleep.
My nutritional interview I just told you about but in between that and another treatment the hotel guest relations manager - Miguel - gave me a detailed tour and more history.
The water station circuit - I thought it was going to be that cold walk again - and I was going to skip it. Glad I didn't - to a the day spa portion of the property - which just opened 2 months ago. You relax in a tub of hot water with mud (not heavy) which has mineral properties -good for ?? not sure but I know it must be very good for you! Then switch to another tub - of ??? something white and foamy that smells good and it must be good for you too! I will have to ask my English speaking hostess. Not all the spa attendants speak English.
Then a bath in a big beautiful pool like area - with a water fall from the ceiling - the water pressure feels very good on your back - not so much on your cabeza. Finally a shower - with the soap, shampoo and conditioner that is the private line of Kurotel. They have their own cosmetics line. They have their own pharmacy where they compound and create the healthy supplements that are given at lunch and dinner depending on your customized program. I am taking sea algae to make me feel full. I wonder how hungry I would be without it? In fact I am hungry right now and the box of chocolates is less than a foot away.
Each day, (I learned today) you are suppose to report in to the nurse ( 24/7 duty!!!) to have your blood pressure taken and report on sleep or anything else you might want to share (like digestive problems).
Welcome cocktail takes place once a week on Sundays - which is when new guests usually arrive. We are handed a small flute of champagne (non alcholic) and half a small glass of either fresh strawberry, pineapple or melon juice to go with our 4 allotted bite sized appetizers that are hand-served. One guest took all 4 at once. I took mine one at a time and joked with the server that he miscounted. There was a musician who played piano, guitar and sang. He asked if I had a request and since he hadn't played the Girl from Ipanema - and it reminded me of Dad - I asked and he gladly played. He had a very nice voice and I was surprised when he played Ring of Fire from Johnny Cash in a low, low voice. There were a few of us who sat on the couch and listened and it reminded me of an era long gone by - retiring to the music room - how civilized.
Dinner was more soup, fish and this time peas with a fruit gelatin. The fish is very good. Small but good. I had a lovely conversation with a couple that live in Amazonia which is 7 hours away by plane. Brazil is one big country! They said I made a good choice not to travel alone to Rio or Sao Paulo - that it is not safe and that Gramado is a wonderful place filled with cultured Europeans - very little crime - very well to do. Heck, can I pick locations or what?
Well, I am hoping that a snack will arrive soon but it is 11 pm so maybe not.
Love,
A thinner me ( i sure hope!)
Day 1 - More Detail
Hello Again:
I decided to write one email to everyone - so as not to duplicate - and it serves as my travelogue.
I forgot to mention the warm swine flu welcome we received deplaning. We were greeted with a woman wearing a mask, handing out flyers in Portuguese, English and Spanish and then all the customs people were wearing masks too. There were about 500 or more people in a large room in very long lines. Achoo. Achoo. Cover your mouth! People! Come on now - you just got a flyer! Anyhow, I had clean hands throughout the flight and no one within a 2 seat radius sneezed on me.
The drive from Porto Alegre to Gramado was interesting. The first part - a little rough and tumble blue collar neighborhood that reminded me of the drive from Cabo to our wonderful all inclusive. But after about 20 minutes, the scenery changed and it was very beautiful- lush and green vistas, happy little cows (I think - they looked pretty happy) and the center of Gramado looked very continental, upscale and with-it. I only saw the center of town from the car and can't wait to walk around. It is a vacation place for Brazilians and Europeans, especially Germans and Italians and there are suppose to be some great restaurants. Speaking of food. I didn't cheat today. I have a box of TJ chocolates still unwrapped. 1200 calories. Wow.
Last night - dinner was a real occasion. Upon walking into the dining room, (which is very elegant) I was greeted by my first name. Famous already! How did they know? Soup served with pepper if I would like. No salt. My I have a glass of water? No. Water is not allowed? Huh? Joking right? No. Bad for digestion. I was given a thimble of water to last me through dinner. Fish - very good. Potato very good. Califlower. Ok. But the best part was a harpist who played wonderful music in the small dining room - he was amazing. And at each table were tapered candles at least 2 feet high - very elegant. Wow. I had no idea what a special place this is.
I met a very nice woman from Peru who is married to a man from Kentucky. We met while I was on the computer and she offered to help me in any way she could. She has a sunny personality and is well-traveled. Unfortunately she leaves tomorrow.
There was a movie that guests could enjoy in the most stylish private auditorium I have ever seen. But then again, how many private auditoriums have I been in? I was too tired and went to bed. Only to have a knock at my door as I stumbled through the darkness to receive my evening snack - a fresh fruit gelatin. It tasted great. Guess who was hungry? After that - I went to bed and slept straight through until today - when my wake up call came through.
I decided to write one email to everyone - so as not to duplicate - and it serves as my travelogue.
I forgot to mention the warm swine flu welcome we received deplaning. We were greeted with a woman wearing a mask, handing out flyers in Portuguese, English and Spanish and then all the customs people were wearing masks too. There were about 500 or more people in a large room in very long lines. Achoo. Achoo. Cover your mouth! People! Come on now - you just got a flyer! Anyhow, I had clean hands throughout the flight and no one within a 2 seat radius sneezed on me.
The drive from Porto Alegre to Gramado was interesting. The first part - a little rough and tumble blue collar neighborhood that reminded me of the drive from Cabo to our wonderful all inclusive. But after about 20 minutes, the scenery changed and it was very beautiful- lush and green vistas, happy little cows (I think - they looked pretty happy) and the center of Gramado looked very continental, upscale and with-it. I only saw the center of town from the car and can't wait to walk around. It is a vacation place for Brazilians and Europeans, especially Germans and Italians and there are suppose to be some great restaurants. Speaking of food. I didn't cheat today. I have a box of TJ chocolates still unwrapped. 1200 calories. Wow.
Last night - dinner was a real occasion. Upon walking into the dining room, (which is very elegant) I was greeted by my first name. Famous already! How did they know? Soup served with pepper if I would like. No salt. My I have a glass of water? No. Water is not allowed? Huh? Joking right? No. Bad for digestion. I was given a thimble of water to last me through dinner. Fish - very good. Potato very good. Califlower. Ok. But the best part was a harpist who played wonderful music in the small dining room - he was amazing. And at each table were tapered candles at least 2 feet high - very elegant. Wow. I had no idea what a special place this is.
I met a very nice woman from Peru who is married to a man from Kentucky. We met while I was on the computer and she offered to help me in any way she could. She has a sunny personality and is well-traveled. Unfortunately she leaves tomorrow.
There was a movie that guests could enjoy in the most stylish private auditorium I have ever seen. But then again, how many private auditoriums have I been in? I was too tired and went to bed. Only to have a knock at my door as I stumbled through the darkness to receive my evening snack - a fresh fruit gelatin. It tasted great. Guess who was hungry? After that - I went to bed and slept straight through until today - when my wake up call came through.
Day 1
Greetings from Gramado!!! I made it here safe and sound.
The flights were fine - Sao Paulo airport is crazier than LAX, times that by not knowing the language and being in a time crunch of passing through customs, retrieving luggage, finding the terminal where you check in domestically, having to check in an large piece of luggage in a sea of 500 people, go through security, find the gate, have 3 gates changes, take a bus...in less than 90 minutes!!! The first time I feel asleep was on the last plane but my head kept bobbing - so I kept waking myself up. I was so tired but immediately felt better when I saw a well dressed driver, with a professional looking sign with my name on it. From there...oh yeah! Who cares about never ending flights, lines and dirty bathrooms.
The resort is beautiful and the customer service is amazing. They put together a schedule from the moment I walked in the door - a consult with a physician, an assessment made which sets the course for the weeks activities, lunch, massage, beauty consult, assessment with a physical therapist, water station circuit, dinner and a movie! And I arrived past noon. Wow. This destination won best award for Latin American spa destination the last 3 years and Conde Naste award among others.
I was given a choice of 1200 calories or 800 calories a day. Huh? What a bout the box of TJ's chocolates I packed and the chocolate chip muffin that made it all the way to Brazil from Fresh and Easy? My contact Adrianne, couldn't be nicer. Today's her birthday and I bought her a box of See's chocolates - which she jokingly said was contraband. When I came out from one of the consults she commented how wonderful the candy was - so I am glad for that! 1200 calories a day? That's like - a meal ! The grounds are beautiful, the treatment areas are all sparkling clean and spotless. The staffing must be more than 1:1. Well, I must be on my way to my next appointment.
More later
Love
The flights were fine - Sao Paulo airport is crazier than LAX, times that by not knowing the language and being in a time crunch of passing through customs, retrieving luggage, finding the terminal where you check in domestically, having to check in an large piece of luggage in a sea of 500 people, go through security, find the gate, have 3 gates changes, take a bus...in less than 90 minutes!!! The first time I feel asleep was on the last plane but my head kept bobbing - so I kept waking myself up. I was so tired but immediately felt better when I saw a well dressed driver, with a professional looking sign with my name on it. From there...oh yeah! Who cares about never ending flights, lines and dirty bathrooms.
The resort is beautiful and the customer service is amazing. They put together a schedule from the moment I walked in the door - a consult with a physician, an assessment made which sets the course for the weeks activities, lunch, massage, beauty consult, assessment with a physical therapist, water station circuit, dinner and a movie! And I arrived past noon. Wow. This destination won best award for Latin American spa destination the last 3 years and Conde Naste award among others.
I was given a choice of 1200 calories or 800 calories a day. Huh? What a bout the box of TJ's chocolates I packed and the chocolate chip muffin that made it all the way to Brazil from Fresh and Easy? My contact Adrianne, couldn't be nicer. Today's her birthday and I bought her a box of See's chocolates - which she jokingly said was contraband. When I came out from one of the consults she commented how wonderful the candy was - so I am glad for that! 1200 calories a day? That's like - a meal ! The grounds are beautiful, the treatment areas are all sparkling clean and spotless. The staffing must be more than 1:1. Well, I must be on my way to my next appointment.
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