South America Highlights 2016

Australia to Rio de Janeiro

Santiago de Chile – Rio de Janeiro

Join in an early morning game of beach volleyball. Surely we Ozzies can show the Cariocas how it is done! (or perhaps not). The rest of the day is free for you to rest or join the trim, taut and some not-so-terrific locals at the beach or explore the nearby shops.

Unconventional Conventions’ Welcome cocktail party: An opportunity to network with fellow delegates in a relaxed atmosphere. This evening leaving the city centre, travel to the neighbourhood of Urca and ride the cable cars to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain.  When you stand at the peak, the entire cidade maravilhosa (marvellous city, as the Cariocas call it) lies at your feet. Here we will have our Welcome Cocktail Party as the sun sets and watch the glittering lights as this incredible city comes to life.

Rio de Janeiro

Today you will have the full day to discover Rio on our guided tours.

This morning will introduce you to the colourful history of Rio with a visit to the city centre. Stand in 15 November Square surrounded by grand buildings and imagine the struggle for independence from Portugal, the pomp and ceremony of the coronation of Brazil’s emperors, and the scheming that brought down Emperor Don Pedro II after he abolished slavery. Visit a gorgeous old cathedral and compare it to the highly controversial, modern Metropolitan Cathedral. Find out why a lovely cobblestone alley, lined with colourful houses is called the Street of the Listeners. See the ornate old-world café where political manoeuvring and wheeling and dealing took place.

This afternoon’s tour is one of contrasts: firstly, off to Corcovado (hunch-back), the mammoth granite outcrop thrusting vertically 710 metres above the city. Board the cog-wheel train which winds its way upwards past hillside shacks, some kitsch religious statues, through tangled rainforest creepers to the very feet of “The Wonder of Rio” – Christ the Redemeer. After soaking in the spectacular view, you will hop into a jeep to wind your way down through the dense tropical rainforest of Tijuca National Park stopping at a refreshing waterfall, a cute chapel and lookouts with breathtaking panoramas. Finally, a chance to explore the bohemian neighbourhood of Santa Teresa, its cobblestone streets traversed by tramlines and lined with ramshackle colonial masnions.  In various nooks and crannies you will find atelières of artists and sculptors, cafes, shops and galleries.

Rio de Janeiro

This morning we take you on a tour of a favela, the once infamous shanty towns clinging to the mountains around Rio. With local guides you will learn of the history and background of the settlements, see some health clinics, understand the struggles and improvements in daily life for the residents of this vibrant community. In the heart of the favela there some of the most stunning views of the city.

While you are on tour we will transfer your belongings to the Windsor Oceanico Hotel for your 5 night stay close to the WONCA conference centre. You will be in the Trijuca district close to a gorgeous beach rubbing shoulders with hipsters enjoying local bars and seafood restaurants.

WONCA Opening Ceremony. We will transfer you to and from the function this evening.

Rio de Janeiro

WONCA full day conference at the Rio Centro Exhibition and Convention Centre

Evening is free

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro

WONCA full day conference at the Rio Centro Exhibition and Convention Centre

This evening join Unconventional Conventions for a truly authentic night at a Rio Samba school. The Rio Samba Schools are associations or social clubs, representing a particular neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro in the annual Samba Parade.

They are at the epicenter of the Carnival culture in Brazil and much of the “samba world” revolves around them. Their main objective is to prepare for and compete annually in the Samba Parade. The hall is pumping with energy as dancers Samba like you’ve never seen it to pulsing drumming and music. There is seriousness, there is flirting, there is fun, there is sexuality. An amazing night.

Rio de Janeiro

WONCA morning conference and closing ceremony at the Rio Centro Exhibition and Convention Centre

This afternoon you have the option of joining Unconventional Conventions to attend a soccer game at Maracana Stadium – Brazilians are said to play the world’s most creative, artistic and thrilling style of soccer. Cariocas are passionate about the game. Be part of the passion and join the locals to watch a game in this amazing stadium – an experience of a lifetime.

Rio de Janeiro

Check out of the hotel for your flight home, arriving in Australia on Wednesday 9 November

OR JOIN OPTIONAL POST CONFERENCE TOUR TO MACCHU PICCHU

End of arrangements or Join optional post conference tour
Please note that this itinerary and costs may be subject to change.