prAna: Sustainable Clothing

When my twin sister planned a destination wedding in Brazil, how could I not be ecstatic? Even though my husband and I were re-routed from through London on the way to Rio (yes…London), it was all worth it!

I fell in love with Brazil – the people, the food, the landscape and oh, the caipirinhas (Brazil’s national drink made from cachaça [sugar cane rum], sugar and lime). Rio’s stunning scenery, beaches set amongst a backdrop of steep jungled mountains and skyscrapers, really takes your breath away. In Copacabana, tan, fit athletes play futevôlei on the beach (a combination of volleyball and soccer), while tourists and locals stroll the famous Avenida Atlantica.

While in Rio, we took the tram to the top of Corcovado, the steep mountain where the statue of Christ the Redeemer resides. On the way to the statue, you pass through the Tijuca National Park – the largest urban forest in the world. We spotted a few monkeys along the way, and in a matter of minutes were out of the hustle and bustle of the city and surrounded by rainforest.

My sister was married in the resort town of Buzios, about a three-hour drive from Rio. The beaches here are gorgeous. The day after we arrived, we went out on a boat tour, island-hopping along the way. The boat served up caipirinhas and grilled shrimp while we relaxed in the sun. (Who knew you can eat the entire shrimp shell?) At each stop, we snorkeled and swam in the blue-green water. During one of our snorkeling stops, we even caught a glimpse of some sea turtles! Lying on my back, floating in the ocean, I felt like I was officially on vacation.

After spending time in Rio and Buzios, my husband and I traveled to Paraty, a beautiful colonial town located on the Costa Verde, about a five-hour bus ride from Rio. Paraty is known for its beautiful cobblestone streets located in the center of town, where no motor vehicles are allowed. Surrounded by rainforest, you can visit jungle waterfalls and explore the area on horseback or mountain bike. If you prefer to soak in the sun, you can visit Paraty’s beaches or the many islands nearby.

And might I note:

Not only did I fall in love with Brazil, I fell in love with prAna’s Bliss Capri pant. Upon landing in Rio, our bags did not arrive along with us. I was so glad that I had packed a few items of clothing in my carry-on bag: the Bliss Capris, a tank top and some flip-flops. Otherwise, I would have been stuck in my fleece pants and sneakers in 80-degree weather. (Coming from Montana, it was pretty cold when we left town.)

I really can’t say enough about these pants. I wore them almost every day. They are lightweight and quick-dry; great when it rained or when I took a stroll on the beach and misjudged the tide. These pants didn’t wrinkle when packed into my suitcase for two weeks, and the drawstring waist makes them extra comfy. They will definitely be my go-to pants for traveling to warm-weather destinations! I’m not usually one to gush, but these pants are gush-worthy.

~Jen Barile, Adventure Life

Adventure Life provides authentic adventure travel to our world’s legendary locations. Combining award-winning operating standards with exceptional itineraries, our trips are carefully designed to experience the best of the region, while allowing flexibility for the unexpected and unpredictable that make each trip unique. For more info visit adventure-life.com and facebook.com/adventurelife.