Sadly, all good things must come to an end. 

I packed up and left Brazil on Monday evening to fly home with a decent tan and head full of great memories. 

As my FloSports comrade Armen Amirian commented though, "A trip was done right if the only problem encountered is that you had to come back." 

Acai, snack of the gods. Photo: Chase Smith

Thus, the third installment of my "Gringo In Rio" series will cover lessons learned and my favorite moment. 

Trip-Defining Experience: De La Riva’s Promotion

I am fortunate to have several exceptional experiences: I competed in Rio, received a private lesson from Caio Terra, and I got train at one of the coolest academies in Rio (DLR); but the day that really defined the trip? Ricardo de la Riva’s promotion to seventh-degree black belt.

From Robson and Reyson Gracie's incredible stories to a slideshow containing photos from over 50 years of jiu-jitsu history, nothing affirmed more to me that jiu-jitsu is for life and all about family than the vibe in the room that day. Words don't do the moment justice — watch the video below.  

Tips for Those Traveling To Brazil For Jiu-Jitsu

Check if you need a visa

I was surprised to learn to that as an American citizen I needed to obtain a visa to enter Brazil. I used a courier service and was able to get one in less than four weeks, but processing time varies greatly by state. Don't stress and get this done well in advance — total cost was just over $300.  

Reach out to academies ahead of training

It’s a common courtesy that should serve you well anywhere you travel. If you don’t speak Portuguese, use Google translate and send out a message via social media to let people know you’re coming. They might even help arrange a translator for your visit.

Caio Terra is... pretty good at jiu-jitsu.

Eat acai. Relentlessly

It’s just different down there. Hit up Bibi Sucos (they can be found all over Rio) and chow down. NOTE: If you get anything other than acai with banana (on top), Caio Terra will no longer be your friend.

Bring at LEAST two gis

You don’t want to have to do laundry every day. Bring a couple gis and pray you’ve got a window in your room.

Go to the beach 

With seemingly hundreds of great academies to visit and class schedules that span entire days, it will be tempting to lock yourself in training rooms and overdose on jiu-jitsu during your time in Brazil. DON’T. If you miss out on strolling the beaches of Ipanema, Copacabana, wherever you are, you will regret it. Take at least one or two afternoons off and chill out Carioca style.

Try to learn a little Portuguese 

Surely not earth-shattering advice, but speaking  the local language — or even just attempting to do so — will break down many barriers. Fire up that Duolingo and get going now! 

Thanks for following along everyone! Check out the first two installations of "A Gringo In Rio" below:

• A Gringo In Rio: Competing In Brazil

• A Gringo In Rio: Private Lessons and Porrada