Phase I of my Latin American Big Adventure began Monday when a change in my schedule gave me just enought time to get to the Brazilian Consulate to apply for my visa before their doors closed at noon.
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A+ to the nice cab driver from Bangladesh was having a bad day. He said no one was taking cabs, and he'd been looking for a passenger for 30 minutes. I'm glad I could be of service to him. He got me there quickly, and when I gave him an extra dollar in tip, he was so grateful. He wished me well.The Brazilians must have heard him.
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When I got the consulate door, the guy gave me a number - V695 - I expected it to take hours, but I was in-and-out lickety split - 25 minutes.
A+ Brazilians.
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I'd also like to give an A+ to the JetBlue flight attendant for cussing out a passenger, grabbing a few beers, opening the emergency exit and sliding onto the tarmac at JFK. I'm always amazed at how rude people are to flight attendants. It's ridiculous. And I'm also amazed at why teenage girls bring their nasty bed pillows on a trip. It grosses me out.
Be nice, people. And leave your pillows at home.
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I hope you have an A+ kinda day. Use the emergency exit as needed.