8:42pm Thursday 28th February 2013
In January, Olivia Cocker left for a 6 month trip all over South America. Already, accompanied by two of her friends, they have been from the very southern, very freezing cold Patagonia to the sunny and warm Brazil. They have been lucky enough to witness the Rio de Janeiro Carnival as well. Staying in a hostel on a island to appartments and even with Spanish families, they have seen it all.
When I could, I asked her what it's been like and how she's coped with everything.
Have you found the language barrier difficult?
Occasionally, I took a book with me to help me with my Portuguese, but now where I am in Bolivia they speak Spanish which is a lot simpler. I'm going to Spanish School every day to help me and i'm even set homework from it, but i'm really improving and it makes getting around a lot easier!
What inspired you to go travelling?
Well I've been travelling before, my first proper time was whilst I was still at school and we went to China and Mongolia, I loved it and I wanted to see more of the world whilst I still could. Once you get older and you're settled into a job, there isn't really a chance to. I'm still only 22 so I thought why wait? I worked for a while to save up enough money, and then decided to go for it, despite mixed opinions.
Have you enjoyed it so far?
Yes its been brilliant! I've trekked up mountains, seen penguins, massive glaciers, waterfalls, been to Rio Carnival and to the beach, we even climbed to a natural swimming pool made by the sea, I've loved every minute.
What did you think of Rio Carnival?
It was simply amazing. You see pictures and it looks fantastic but being there is just so much better. The atmosphere is surreal, it's so colourful and everyone is having a good time. I recommend everyone goes to see it at some point in their lifetime.
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