"Here's yet another American venturing into the world."

My heart beat a little faster after reading my first blog criticism, below. I get to moderate the comments and thought this was worthwhile to publish and respond to as its own entry. I do not know the person who posted the comment.

Jacinto has left a new comment on your post "Karen's Observations after One Week in Sao Paulo, ...":

Your reactions to Brazil after a week sound more like reactions to your own provincianism. Here's yet another American venturing into the world. Shocked that nobody wears baseball caps or speaks English. The best was when you realized that Spanish and Portuguese are indeed different languages. I wonder what insight, as a travel journalist, you will provide on Brazil and other countries. I can't wait!

Hello Jacinto,
Thank you for reading and responding to my blog. Yes, you are right - my observations (not reactions) are just that:superficial, first-impressions that I thought might be helpful, in a very general way, for others who have never ventured to Brazil. I did not express shock at the differences, just noted them.

Jacinto, I wonder if you are Brazilian? On the topic of language, many Brazilians here and in the U.S. have indicated that they do indeed understand Spanish.

I look forward to sharing insights as I get to know people better.

Farewell Sao Paulo, Hello Rio! Karen in transit on Sept. 11, 2008

Today's Magic Number is EIGHT!

8 Hours - number of hours I am waiting (still) in Sao Paulo airport to fly to Rio.

8 Nights - number of nights I spent at Green Place Flat in Sao Paulo, Brazil, before leaving today.

8 p.m. - Time my flight departs for Rio. It is only an hour, 15 min. flight.
It's strange to be in an airport all day on September 11. I have paid silent tribute to the many victims who died that day. Many were just travelers boarding another airplane to go to their destination...


Karen tries to make her luggage look smaller by crouching down next to it before she left her hotel room in Sao Paulo, Thursday morning.

Call it procrastination or spontaneity, but I thought it would be fun and exciting to show up at the airport at noon today and fly stand-by to Rio. From online research, I knew the flight should cost about $100 reales. At the airport, I went to three airline desks and was quoted $300-$600 for a ticket. I was told it would be cheaper to book on the Internet. So I did. The one flight that was a reasonable price departed at 8 p.m.

Good news: With 8 hours to kill, I have been hanging out all day at a lovely rooftop cafe here at the airport. It has a cityscape view, fresh breeze, decent food and kind waiters. Due to one language mishap, I am now on my fourth bottle of water con gas. Best of all, there are no booming airline announcements broadcast up here.


Flavia Frangetto and I struck up a conversation today at the airport cafe after she and her companion borrowed my flash drive. Here, she displays her doctoral thesis! Flavia is a lawyer and getting her doctorate in environmental law. She is especially interested in global warming issues.

I have been thinking about how much time I have spent on the computer so far this trip. A little weird to be so wired and connected. Today, my technology helped me make an old-fashioned face-to-face connection here at the airport cafe. A gentleman approached me seeing that I was using my Apple laptop, and asked if he could borrow my zip drive. He was sitting at a table next to me and I said sure. When he returned it soon after, I gave him my business card (tireless networker that I am). Turns out he is a professor of environmental studies. After he left, the woman who shared his table came over and introduced herself. And that led to a wonderful conversation with a brilliant and beautiful woman from Sao Paulo, Flavia Frangetto.

Going to go check in now! I have too much luggage! The plan is to stay at a hostel in Rio; I have arranged my reservation online and plan to meet a driver at the airport in Rio. Wish me luck!

So You Want to Be a Freelance Travel Writer? Being you own boss means managing your marketing, sales, technology and networking strategies - in addition to world travel!

Motivated by questions I received from travel tour operators and fellow media at the recent Adventure Travel Trade Association here in Brazil as well as my conversation with Brazil-based freelance writer Marilyn Diggs (see earlier blog entry) I offer the following for those who want to be a freelance travel writer.

Tools of the Trade - Websites, associations and tips I have found useful during my 12 years as a freelance journalist specializing in adventure travel.

You need a website 100% dedicated to promoting yourself as a professional writer

1. Your website is your portfolio and a primary sales tool; don't combine it with another industry you are involved in. Your website should showcase samples of your best writing rather than ALL of your writing.

2. Include a photo gallery if you plan to sell your photos.

3. Hire a professional website designer. The results are often more polished than using your own template. However, templates have improved tremendously and design your own if you are so inclined - Joomla.com and Iweb.com offer good web templates.

4. Promote your website. Hand out business cards with your site on them, include a live link to your site on your email signature, include it in your published stories and feature it on your online profile at various online networking sites. Also, highlight it in your newsletter.

Consider adding to your writer's website:

1. A blog (short for web log, an online journal); I use Blogger.com.

2. Newsletter - I use Constant Contact.

3. Photo Gallery - I use Pbase.com.

Create free profiles on online networking and Social Media

Professional:

1. Linked In

2. Plaxo

3. Hi5

4. Redroom (for authors)

Combined Social/Professional Online networking:

1. Facebook

2. MySpace

3. Twitter

Read industry news and writers' updates online:

1. Mediabistro.com

2. Travelwriters.com

3. WoodenHorsePub.com

4. WrittenRoad.com

5. WritingforDollars.com

Use Press Release Sources

1. ATMS

2. Travelmole.com

Join professional organizations and associations. I belong to these professional and recreational groups - some of which have strict requirements for media credentials.

1. ASJA member

2. ATTA member

3. BATW member

4. OIWC member

5. ACA member

6. USA Cycling member

Online Travel Networks

5. Trav Buddy

6. AdventureUS

7. Chicable

8. AdventureTravel.biz

Good luck!

Here's food for thought from the Writer's Newsletter The Written Road:

Excerpt from Rolf Pott's interview of Matt Gross, who writes the Frugal Traveler column for the New York Times travel section.

Q: What advice and/or warnings would you give to someone who is considering going into travel writing?

A: Go into travel before you go into travel writing. You should know how to cross a land border, book plane tickets in a language you don't speak and befriend the old lady who squints evilly from the second-story window at everyone who passes by. In other words, if you're just after paid vacations, then you're going to have a tough time. But if you're willing to put aside your ego, embrace the unknown and endure crushing poverty, then you might have a shot.

Q: What is the biggest reward of life as a travel writer?

A: Duh: getting to travel!

Read the full story on Rolf Potts' Vagabonding website: http://www.rolfpotts.com/writers/index.php?writer=Matt%20Gross

Karen's Observations after One Week in Sao Paulo, Brazil

MEALS

Lunch is the big, sit-down meal in Brazil.

Dinner is sometimes just soup and sandwiches.

Dinner Time: 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. is when I have dined on weekends and weeknights in packed restaurants. The average dinner time? Still not sure - Late! Been going to sleep about 1 a.m. nightly.

Breakfast is light.

Vegetarian WARNING - menus often revolve around meat and starch. Yesterday, I noticed I had rice, pasta and potatoes on my plate. I try to eat fish when available. Food is frequently too salty for my taste.

Favorite meals: casual, self-serve lunch buffets. Price determined by weight of the plate.

Beverages: Sparkling water. I have tried some exotic and delicious fruit drinks and of course, the powerful cocktail made with sugar cane, caipirinha.

Best dessert: Besides dark chocolate, I like "milk pudding," a custard which tastes like flan. Pudim de leite, as it is called, is made from condensed milk.

NIGHTLIFE MYSTERY
I have not yet figured this out: At a live music/restaurant place last Friday night, I was asked to pay a fee to the musicians - on the way out, at the end of the evening. (So was everyone else.) I was confused. Seemed the idea was to pay the cover charge at the end of the night?

FASHION

Women: wear tight, straight-legged jeans (no matter what body type), spike heels and plunging necklines for casual-wear. Long hair. Work apparel is far more conservative. Leather shoes and purses.

Men: Leather shoes, short hair, clean shaven, dress slacks and casual jackets. No grunge look!

Unlike the USA: Only a few baseball caps here and there. Very few hats of any kind for that matter. Sunglasses are not as prevalent here either. The sporty, urban-chic, yoga-class look seems to be absent; perhaps it remains in the gym? Soccer jerseys are popular.

TRAFFIC

Horrendous. Just as everyone warned. The snarl of cars leads to horrible smog.

BICYCLES

I have not noticed anyone commuting by bike. I have seen adults riding bikes in parks for exercise.

LANGUAGE

I have been surprised by how few people speak any English. After about 16 cab rides, I have found only one driver who spoke some English; another could speak Spanish quite well. Most of the front desk at this large, high-rise hotel can not speak English; same with restaurant staff.

DIFFERENT THAN SPANISH

My speaking Spanish has not helped much. I can read Portuguese somewhat but its pronunciation is quite different than Spanish. Portuguese sounds very soft and swishy; there are many "shhh" sounding words and long vowels as in Saaaaoooo Paaaauloooo. The overall effect is a language largely without the staccato beat of consonants.

PEOPLE Despite language barriers, I have encountered friendly, helpful people in Brazil who are patient with my not speaking Portuguese!

QUESTION: What is adventure travel? ANSWER: Leaving your hotel room!

Today, I plunged into the dangerous streets of Sao Paulo. I have been repeatedly warned by locals and visitors alike that downtown S.P. is swarming with criminals* ready to rip off my jewelry, money, camera and other valuables. But for me, adventure travel is all about risk, even if that just means leaving my hotel room.

The biggest danger I faced so far was going nuts from working long, solitary hours at in my hotel room at Green Place Flat. Sunday and Monday, I have been holed up tackling projects related to the wonderful Adventure Travel Trade Association South American Summit (which was Wed.-Sunday). It's been a wild ride:
* Sorting through piles of business cards and tour company materials from the conference.
* Uploading photos, catching up on email, posting updates and entering data.

A visit to Ibirapuera Park was the perfect break from the city bustle. More on the park, below.

I've spent seven nights at this hotel and am now buddies with desk clerks Renato, Ishmael and Arturo. I will leave Sao Paulo this Thursday. Where to? I am thinking Rio and the Amazon, not sure yet. My mountain bike tour in Peru with Sacred Rides starts Sept. 27 in Lima ...

Today's Highlights:
1. Marilyn Diggs - I found Marilyn online, by accident, through one of my favorite writer's websites, Travelwriters.com. I noticed that she lived in Sao Paulo and was an American, an accomplished writer and painter. We exchanged emails and she generously offered travel advice on Sao Paulo and Brazil in general. She has been here 20 years. I accepted her kind invitation to meet her today and will write more about that fun encounter.
Marilyn Diggs, an American writer and artist, has been a resident of Brazil for 20 years, She invited me to her home today in the neighborhood she called "the Manhattan of Sao Paulo."

2. Ibirapuera Park - This oasis of calm in the traffic-choked city of Sao Paulo was just the boost I needed. Like San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, Ibirapuera Park houses several prominent city museums. Thanks to Marilyn's recommendation, I visited the Afro-Brazilian museum, which was Smithsonian- quality (top notch!). I watched the runners and cyclists do their afternoon workouts and sat by the lake watching the black geese. I also had a delicious buffet lunch at a restaurant in the park and was thrilled to find leafy greens there!

3. Money - At last, a cash infusion! Big thanks to the one Citibank ATM in Brazil that was in the mood to accept my ATM card. Til now, I survived on cash loans from conference friends.

4. Shipped stuff to California - The only crime I encountered was the outrageous cost of shipping a backpack of my surplus stuff (mostly clothes) to the U.S. I also sent my cell phone since it is useless here and would be expensive to replace if stolen. Part of the reason for the $$$ was DHL had to send it 4 days express mail - they did not have any other options. Given my investment in time and money to get to this shop, I decided it was worthwhile to send the stuff so I don't have to schlep business clothes with me through the rainforest and the Andes.

* CRIME REPORT: Despite dire warnings, during my first day as a solo female visitor in Sao Paulo, I did not feel unsafe in the business district or at the park. I was home before dark. I kept a close eye on my purse, walked with purpose, did not pull out a map and was pleased when I was addressed in Portuguese. I took care not to wear my camera around my neck, a backpack or beltpouch which might indicate "tourist."

Karen's Presentation on Media Panel at ATTA South American Summit

COMING SOON ON THIS BLOG: How You Can Get Media Coverage - Notes from Karen's ATTA SUMMIT Presentation

Karen reminds the audience that everyone has a story to tell - in print, online, in video and photos! The best way to get media coverage is to pitch a story that is new, seasonal, celebrity-based or a specific topic like food or yoga. Photo credit: Ana Laura Araya, analaura@alarayaphoto.com



Just to make sure the audience is awake and listening, Karen asks them questions about their company websites. Karen reminds the audience that everyone has a story to tell - in print, online, in video and photos!
Photo credit: Ana Laura Araya, analaura@alarayaphoto.com

Co-speakers on the Saturday media panel, "Beyond the Press Release" were Nancy Harrison, of ATMS, Adventure Travel Media Source, a media news service, and Kiko Nogueira, editor of Abril, in Brazil.
Photo credit: Ana Laura Araya, analaura@alarayaphoto.com

Free trip to Brazil! Timo Shaw of Country Walkers wins drawing at ATTA South American Summit in Sao Paulo

Timo wins big! His upcoming free trip to Brazil does NOT include a visit with these two beautiful women, who were working at the Adventure Sports Fair. The fair took place in the same venue as our summit.

Timo Shaw, president of Country Walkers, landed the grand prize Saturday night at the Adventure Travel Trade Association South American Summit - a free trip to Brazil. I am jealous! This transplanted New Zealander who recently moved to Waterbury, Vermont, from Seattle, Washington, has a wonderful sense of humor and kept many of us laughing all weekend. Congratulations, Timo!

NEWSFLASH: My media presentation is today at the Adventure Travel Trade Association South American Summit here in Sao Paulo, Brazil!

Karen, hard at work, talking to tour operator Javier Lopez of Cascada Travel at the Expo Center Imigrantes in Sao Paulo, Friday, Sept. 5.

Today's update: Two is the magic number!

2 a.m. - Last night, the time I caught a taxi back to my hotel, Green Place Flat. Dinner at an outdoor downtown cafe was at 10 p.m., followed by dancing at another place, til 1:30 a.m.
It was my first time out in Sao Paulo. It was fun to be with a lively group of international friends from the ATTA convention - and far away from the hotel and convention center. It was authentic Brazil!

2 - Number of caipirinhas I drank last night. Since this is THE drink of Brazil, it was my duty to try it! The first one was so delicious and sweet, I had to have a second. Then I realized how strong they are!

2 - Hours of sleep, maybe a little more. I caught the taxi at 2 a.m. and was in bed by 3 a.m. I slept on and off til I got up at 7:30 a.m. today.

2 - Hours of panic this morning on two issues: 1. I am almost completely out of money. Tried two ATM machines so far, and can't get any money using my WAMU bank card. I'm spending a small fortune in taxi fare. I must resolve this money problem immediately! 2. I found my Apple power cord in the Lost and Found today at the expo after leaving it behind yesterday.

2 p.m. - The hour today that I join Nancy Harrison of ATMS, a media news service, to give my presentation, see below.

2 - More days of conference - today and tomorrow! Tomorrow won't be too much work: I am going whitewater rafting as part of the conference Day Outside!

Ciao!

Track 3 - Public Relations Atacama Room
Beyond the Press Release: Creative Strategies for Increased Media
(and consumer) Visibility
Learn how to look beyond the press release to access a much broader
audience for your special news. Learn how news services increase
visibility through popular search engines, creating photo and/or video
libraries for journalist access, establishing media/press centers that
positions you/your company as THE experts.
Nancy Harrison, Adventure Travel Media Source - USA
Karen Kefauver, Freelance Journalist - USA
Kiko Nogueira, Editora Abril - BRA

Adventure Writer Tackles Big Conference Center - and Wins!

In this harrowing tale of survival, one woman* reveals her emotional transformation during four days in Imigrantes Pavilion Center in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

* The source has requested that her name not be used to protect her job.

First Night: Monstrosity - This sprawling conference center is intimidating! Where are the bathrooms, the electrical outlets? Can I get a wireless connection? Are people smoking inside?

Day 1: Concrete Jungle - It still feels overwhelming, but now I know where the bathrooms and outlets are. Bonus: perfect wireless connection!

Day 2: Workplace Playground - I am friendly with the guards at the entry, have located the press room and found a few quiet spaces. I know my way to the lunch and dinner area, have located my favorite booths at the expo and know to sit far away from the booming sound system.

Days 3-4: Home, Sweet, Home - I have memorized the names of all the conference rooms. I know the bathroom attendants on the first and second floors. I don't smell the smoke anymore. I am ready to conquer new turf! I  boldly venture to unknown parts of the Expo Center to explore the even larger Adventure Sports Fair! I am an adventure writer after all!

To those of you who make your living attending trade shows, I salute you.

Photos from day trip in Laguna, Santa Catarina, Brazil

Fishing is a way of life in Laguna.

Lost in Translation - language barrier leads to mishap: I can't believe I slept through the whale watching trip - or did I?

Monday, September 1

Vida Sol e Mar Eco-Resort, Santa Catarina, Brazil

I woke up in a panic at 8:15 a.m. Monday morning, certain I had slept through the 7 a.m. phone call summoning me to the whale watching trip. I called the front desk to see if I were too late to join the expedition to observe the massive right whales and their calves - that was my reason for coming here. Through a jumbled mix of English, Spanish and Portuguese, I learned that the trip would depart in ten minutes. I jumped out of bed into my clothes, grabbed my camera and dashed to the dining room.

I found my new friend and fellow guest, Margarete Pollner-Schmidt, a German tour operator who specializes in organizing custom trips to Brazil and Argentina, (www.braslatinatur.de). She was drinking coffee and studying the breakfast buffet: yogurt, granola, sliced bread, cheese and slices of turkey and ham to make sandwiches, and a large tub of chocolate Nutella spread next to the toaster. I quickly assessed the sweets: six types of pastries and custardy-cheeses. I made a sugar-laden selection.

"I am so glad I did not miss the whale trip!" I gushed to Margaret, gulping a glass a fresh-squeezed orange juice and trying to pat down my disastrous, bed-head hairdo.

Alayde of Brazil, Karen of California and Margaret of Germany in Laguna.

"Yes, we leave at 10 a.m.," replied Margaret, watching my frenzy. "We are headed to the town of Laguna to see the dolphins. It is too windy to whale-watch."

Whoops! Looks like I had my first language mishap: we were leaving at 10 a.m. - not in 10 minutes! I regretted that the conditions were not good to see the whales, but relieved I had more time before our outing to Laguna, a historical town known for its dolphins in the bay. The dolphins and fishermen cooperate in a unique way - the dolphins help show the fisherman where the fish are; the fisherman corral the fish with their nets and the dolphins get to eat some fish that escape the nets. The fisherman have named each dolphin for a characeteristic - for instance, "Electronico" is the speediest dolphin.

Rodrigo Litman, our guide and part of the family that owns Vida Sol e Mar Eco-resort where I stayed, chats with a fisherman in Laguna.

Warm welcome to Brazil - first night in coastal eco-resort, Vida Sol e Mar at Praia do Rosa Beach

Warm welcome to Brazil - first night in coastal eco-resort, Vida Sol e Mar at Praia do Rosa Beach

Florianopolis is the capital of Santa Catarina, a state of southern Brazil. Known for a high standard of living and attracting many tourists from South America and beyond, Florianopolis (population about 370,000) draws the most visitors in the summer months. The eco-resort where I am staying for three nights, Vida Sol e Mar, is located on the popular Rosa Beach, a haven for surfers and an ideal spot for whale watching from July to November. I plan to go on the resort's whale watching tour tomorrow at 7:30 a.m., accompanied by a biologist and other guests from the lodge. We will be on the lookout for the Right Whale, a 50-million-year-old mammal that rebounded from near extinction. Right now, the mother whales and their calfs swim near the coast, in the bay. If the wind is over 12 knots we will not sail; the conditions will be too unpleasant to view the whales. Regardless of the conditions, I plan to take medication to prevent sea sickness since I am a notoriously weak-stomached sailor.

Earlier today, during the 45-minute drive from Florianopolis airport to the Vida Sol e Mar eco-resort on the coast, my shuttle driver, Eduardo, chatted with me in fluent English. He also let me practice my Spanish with him since I don't know Portuguese - other than "obrigada" for "thank you." When we stopped to fill the gas tank, the topic turned to fuel and politics. Eduardo told me that natural gas and ethanol are both commonly used in Brazil. I hinted that I hoped that U.S. energy policy would soon change with the next president, then I had to add that I supported Barack Obama. He seemed relieved and replied, "I think the whole planet hopes that Barack will win!"

Upon arrival, all vexing thoughts of the upcoming U.S. election vanished - I was thrilled by the beauty of the hilltop Vida Sol e Mar resort and its panoramic ocean views. I will post photos when I have a better internet connection. 

Tonight, I dined at the resort's restaurant with Vida Sol e Mar owners, Enrique Litman and his wife, Francesca. The Argentine natives opened this lodge in 1993 and operated it since then in conjunction with a tourism company that runs whale watching, surfing and other day trips. Over a delicious fish dinner and exquisite chocolate souffle for dessert, the couple told me that they are the only certified green lodge in the Praia do Rosa Bay. The lodge is also home to the Right Whale Institute; they donate 5% of their profits to the institute. The couple has five children (ranging in age from 12 to 32); three of them actively help in the family business.

This winter marks the 15th anniversary of Vida Sol e Mar. More on the resort to come...

Highlights of Day:

Arriving at Vida Sol e Mar Eco Lodge, perched on a hilltop, with sweeping views of the ocean. 

Entering my modern, stately, two-story villa (named Piru Piru, after a bird) where I stay Sunday, Monday and Tuesday nights. Gorgeous views and can hear the waves.

Lowpoints of Day:

Finally falling asleep on a hot, cramped flight that departed Miami at 11:30 - only to be awoken by smell of overcooked veggies and the commencement of a 12:30 a.m. airline dinner. I know South Americans eat dinner later than Americans... but really!

Finally falling asleep after a noisy dinner hour - only to be awakened by loud voices of cheerful flight attendants eagerly selling duty-free goods from their cart.

Aug. 30-31 Travel Logistics Report

1 hour - drive from Santa Cruz to San Francisco Airport (Thanks for the ride, Jec!)

6 hours - San Francisco airport to Miami airport

8 hours - Miami to Rio de Janeiro

1.50 hours - Rio to Florianopolis

1 hour drive from airport to Vida Sol E Mar eco-resort

TOTAL TRAVEL TIME: 17.50 hours door to door

TIME CHANGE: 4 hours later here than in California

Farewell Florianopolis and hello Sao Paulo - fly to conference on Wed. Sept. 3

Bom dia - Hello from Brazil!
I survived the whale watching expedition today - photos and details later! I have had some internet connection problems and am recruiting my mother to help me publish a few earlier entries on this blog. Thanks, mom!
Ciao,
Karen

Worst Airline Nightmare Quiz + report on my six-hour flight (leg one of three) from San Francisco to Miami

"You deserve a medal," whispered the American Airlines flight attendant. She gave me a sympathetic pat on the shoulder, glanced at the screaming toddler next to me and continued down the aisle, away from the ruckus in Row 22. I have never traveled with a toddler under my care on a cross-country flight, but I now feel fully qualified after this six hour-flight from San Francisco, California, to Miami, Florida. This little fellow with the robust vocal cords had a doting support staff of three: mom plus two grandparents catering to his every whim. I tuned out much of the family frenzy by listening to my Ipod (grateful I decided to bring it!).

I am enjoying my hour layover in Miami - though clearly I'm not dressed properly for Rio - many of the women here at the gate are wearing tight, "skinny" jeans, spike heels, plunging necklines and have manes of luscious, long hair.

Next up: fly from Miami to Rio, then Rio to Florianopolis, where I will meet my whale watching tour group at the airport. I may be a little out of it by my arrival time of noon Sunday.

NOTE TO PROCRASTINATORS: Packing this morning, an hour before I left, was not such a hot idea - turned out that clothing/gear for an 11-day mountain bike trip at elevation of 8,000-14,000 feet, business clothes for conference and clothing for the tropics did not fit in my new 4,0000 cubic inch wheeled luggage from Patagonia store. So I have an "overflow" bag ....

Thanks, Luke, for all your tech support, and Jec, for the ride to the airport today.

What do you think is the WORST scenario for a six-hour flight:
a. Sitting squashed next to a generously-sized person
b. Being in close earshot of a screaming baby
c. Having an over-talkative seatmate

Ciao for now!

Just six degrees of separation between my upcoming trip to Peru and my recently published story about my first skydiving tandem jump

One of the most intriguing responses to my emailed newsletter about my upcoming South America trip came from a fellow right here in Santa Cruz.

"I used to be the coach of the Peruvian National Skydiving Team in the mid-80's," wrote Mark Knutson of Santa Cruz. Turns out that Mark, known as "Shoobi" to friends, and I share an interest in bicycling and are now on the same bike race team.

He is pictured above with actresses Drew Barrymore (left) and Cameron Diaz (right). The celebrities were seen skydiving in the movie Charlie's Angels.

To see the skydiving video and my tandem jump story, read the previous blog entry.

Skydiving - Experience the thrill of a tandem jump from an airplane! My skydiving story and video now in Adventure Sports Journal

Adventure Sports Journal has published my story in print and online: The Ultimate Rush: A first-time skydiver discovers new frontier.
one of Adventure Center's pro photographers/solo skydivers.

FUN NOTE: I recently learned that a member of my bicycling race team here in Santa Cruz served as the coach of Peru's National Skydiving Team in the mid-80's! That will be a good story! I leave for Peru and Brazil tomorrow, Saturday, August 30. First stop: whale watching, Then I will be a speaker at the Adventure Travel Trade Association World Summit in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Can't wait to eat my way through Brazil

My friend Andrew Hecht shared some tips about his favorite Brazilian cuisine and got my mouth watering (Vegetarians, beware):

(1) Juice Bars. Every one of them puts Jamba Juice to shame. Not only cheaper and fresher, but filled with fruits from the Amazon that you've never heard of. Amazing! I highly recommend drinking as much mamao com leche (papaya milkshake) as you can stomach.

(2) Churrascaria. Churrascaria is what all steakhouses want to be when they grow up. It's an experience you can't miss. If you can find one where they mix caiprinhias tableside, all the better.

(3) Feijoada. This is the Brazilian national dish. It's a conglomeration of black beans and pork bits served with kale and manioc flour. It was originally a dish eaten by slaves and so traditionally comes with some pork "offcuts." If you're not into snouts and ears, try it at a slightly westernized place first.

If you go to Rio, visit Copa, Ipanema or Leblon and you will experience what has to be the best beach food scene in the world. While you soak up the sun and people-watch, a stream of hawkers selling all sorts of edibles makes their way up and down the beach with. Various vendors will offer:

- Coolers full of sandwich fixings for custom sandwiches

- Mini-grills to fire up skewers of shrimp or cheese with oregano or calamari

- Baskets of abacaxi (pineapples) that they will slice and dice open

Plus, vendors sell cold drinks, ice cream, grilled corn on the cob, ice cold coconuts. If you don't find anything you like, there are kiosks every couple of hundred feet selling all sorts of tasty treats. I don't know how people there stay in such great shape will all those temptations around, but somehow they manage.

Your fun responses to my South America travel newsletter

Greetings! I sent out a newsletter earlier today with the highlights of my upcoming Brazil and Peru adventures. I got a great response. Here is a selection, below, of the wide variety of helpful tips I received:

OOPS! TECHNICAL GLITCHES

Hey - I got your blog 3 times. I'm not annoyed, I just deleted, but other people might be. Just a heads up to check your email group.

- Mari, Santa Cruz, CA

Note from Karen: Thanks and sorry, folks, to those who got triple the goods. Issue resolved.

I saw this email (xxx) on your blog. Do we now all know the secret address to email posts so they end up on your blog?

- Alex, Santa Cruz, California

Note from Karen: Your fleeting moment to post Fake Karen Blogs has vanished.

OTHER WORLD TRAVELERS
John and I are off on Monday, September 1, for 3 weeks in the South Pacific: Palau, Kosrae, and Guam.

- Diane, San Francisco, California

I am in Shanghai. We're leaving tomorrow night to go to a beautiful place to hike -- where they filmed Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

- Elliot, Shanghai

FLIGHTS IN BRAZIL
If they still have it, (5 years ago they did) I suggest you buy a "Skybus" ticket - giving you discounted air travel within Brazil so you can really travel around the huge country. (Carbon Emissions Aside).
- Philip, China

WHERE TO GO IN BRAZIL
Is this your first trip to Brazil? You don´t want to miss Rio, for example. The Amazon is another interesting must-see. Fernando de Noronha is one of my favorite spots.

- Marilyn, Sao Paulo, Brazil

HEALTH TIPS - SOUTH AMERICA
One thing that can be really handy when you are traveling is to carry grapefruit seed extract with you. You can put a few drops on any salads or into a glass of water to reduce parasite/bacteria dangers. Also I recommend strongly carrying a water filter, as relying on plastic bottles is not only just bad but also not reliable.

- Brooke, Bonny Doon, California

AIRPLANE READING
Here's a link to the book I mentioned - "Smile When You're Lying: The Confessions of a Rogue Travel Writer."
http://www.amazon.com/Smile-When-Youre-Lying-Confessions/dp/0805082093/ref=si3_rdr_bb_product

I thought it was a fun read...bet it'd give you a good laugh being in the biz.
- Laura, Scotts Valley, California

Karen's Presentation Topic for Adventure Travel Trade Association Summit in Brazil

I am finalizing details (like which power adapter will work for my Mac laptop) for my trip to Brazil. In Sao Paulo, I will speak at the Adventure Travel Trade Association's (ATTA) World Summit. I have attended this organization's world summits in Seattle ('06), and Whistler, British Columbia ('07). This is ATTA's first summit held in South America. Its timing and location coincide with the 10th annual Adventure Sports Fair, Sept. 4-7, which is expected to draw up to 60,000 visitors.

I fly out of San Francisco Airport on Saturday, August 30 and arrive in Florianópolis, Brazil, Sunday, August 31, to start a three-day whale watching trip which will take place at the eco-resort Vida Sol e Mar.

The ATTA conference begins Sept. 3. I will join two co-panelists on Saturday, Sept. 6 to present this topic (as listed in the schedule):

Beyond the Press Release: Creative Strategies for Increased

Media (and Consumer) Visibility

Learn from journalists and news service providers how to look

beyond the press release to access a much broader audience

for your special news - in addition to print media, think TV, radio,

blogs and more. Learn how news services increase visibility

through popular search engines, creating photo and/or video

libraries for journalist/reporter access, establishing media/

press centers that positions you/your company as THE experts,

develop expert blogs with regular news updates, and much more.

Nancy Harrison, Adventure Travel Media Source - USA

Karen Kefauver, Freelance Journalist- USA

Kiko Nogueira, Editor Abril - BRAZIL

Olympian Jill Kintner wins bronze medal in BMX in Beijing

I am thrilled that Olympian athlete Jill Kintner, whom I met this past spring, won a bronze medal in BMX bike racing this week in Beijing. Jill was the only women selected from the U.S. to compete in BMX in China. She captured third place with an amazing performance. I feel fortunate that I had the opportunity to take a mountain bike clinic with her at Sea Otter Classic 2008.

For more about Jill, visit her Team GT website.

Excerpt from GT Bicycles press release:
Seattle's Jill Kintner earned the well-deserved bronze medal honors with her third place finish. After blazing her way through three rounds of competition, Jill had to battle seven of the world's top riders, including Anne-Caroline Chausson and Laetitia le Courguille of France to take home a medal. Jill also rode a GT Power Series Ultra Box with custom Team USA graphics. In a particularly hard-fought race punctuated by three different crashes, including one that took out powerful British rider Shanaze Reade, Jill maintained her composure, avoided the wreckage, and pedaled through it to the bronze.

"It was like the seas had parted and there it is - go!" said Kintner.

Mike Day (who won a silver medal in the men's BMX), Donny Robinson, who won bronze and Jill's places on the podium are especially noteworthy since this was the first time BMX Race has been included as an Olympic sport.

2008 U.S. Olympic Games
Beijing, China
Aug. 8-24

Men's BMX results
1. Maris Strombergs (LAT)
2. Mike Day (Santa Clarita, Calif.)
3. Donny Robinson (Napa, Calif.)

Women's BMX results
1. Ann-Caroline Chausson (FRA)
2. Laetitia Le Corguille (FRA)
3. Jill Kintner (Seattle, Wash.)

In Sao Paulo, the helicopter is a preferred means of travel for those who can afford it

My friend Andrew Hecht, pictured above, forwarded me an interesting article about Sao Paulo, Brazil, the site of my upcoming Adventure Travel Trade Association World Summit, Sept 3-7.

Published by The Guardian, Tom Phillips' story provides an interesting glimpse into increasing Brazilian affluence and the city's growing pains.

Excerpts:

* According to Brazil's National Aviation Agency the number of helicopters in Sao Paulo state jumped from 374 to 469 between 1999 and 2008, making it the helicopter capital of the world ahead of both New York and Tokyo.

* The helicopter boom has transformed Sao Paulo into a real-life, South American episode of The Jetsons, with a constant flow of helicopters jittering through the city's skies, tiny spots ducking and diving as they make their way from helipad to helipad.

* Traffic jams often stretch to more than 130 miles in greater Sao Paulo, a sprawling megalopolis accommodating around 20 million people and 6 million cars. Last year more cars were sold here than ever before with nearly 1,000 new vehicles hitting the roads each day.

AT A GLANCE
6 million -Cars in Sao Paulo

70,000 - Minimum number of helicopter flights within central Sao Paulo each year

11,000 - Annual flights and landings at London's main heliport, in Battersea

820 - Helicopter pilots work in Sao Paulo; each can earn $100,000 a year

420 - Helipads in Sao Paulo - 75% of Brazil's total and 50% more than the whole UK

·SOURCE: ESRC