Sometimes, life gifts you with experiences that feel straight out of a dream—and for me, that dream unfolded deep in the Amazon Rainforest. Thanks to the incredible LIKEtoKNOW.it family, I had the chance to step foot in one of the world’s most vital ecosystems. The Amazon had always been on my bucket list, but I never imagined I’d find myself there so soon.
Touchdown in the Wild
The journey began in São Paulo, with two more connecting flights before reaching what felt like the edge of the earth. I’ll never forget peeking out of my airplane window and seeing an endless green carpet of canopy stretching as far as my eyes could see. That was my first “pinch me” moment—it hit me that I was really here, in the lungs of our planet, where more than 20% of the world’s oxygen is produced. Breathing in that pure, clean air was exactly the reset I needed after leaving the bustle of South Florida behind.
And at night? Let’s just say the stars didn’t hold back. With no city lights in sight, the sky transformed into a glittering masterpiece of millions.
Home in the Jungle
Our stay was at the iconic Cristalino Lodge, often recognized as one of the best ecolodges in the world (National Geographic agrees). Nestled in the southern Amazon, this sanctuary redefines luxury by drawing it from nature itself. Arriving was cinematic—our boat ride along the Cristalino River ended with a welcome on a floating deck, complete with music, happy hour, and a traditional Brazilian dinner. Each evening, as temperatures dropped, we gathered around the fire, swapping stories under a canopy of stars. It felt magical, grounding, and surreal all at once.
What makes Cristalino stand out is its thoughtful design. Every bungalow was built to harmonize with the environment, featuring solar water heating, natural ventilation, and sustainable waste treatment systems. It’s proof that eco-conscious travel doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort—in fact, it makes the stay all the more meaningful.
The Call of the Wild
Exploring the Amazon was everything I dreamed of and more. Days were filled with guided hikes, river canoe trips, and climbing the famous observation towers. My absolute favorite? Standing 165 feet above the forest on one of these towers, watching the sun rise as a sea of green stretched endlessly below me. Layers upon layers of rainforest, bathed in golden light—it was breathtaking.
And then, the macaws. Vibrant pairs soaring across the sky, calling out as if to remind us that love truly lasts a lifetime. (Did you know macaws mate for life? Talk about relationship goals.)
On the trails, we met the giants of the jungle—the Brazil Nut tree, towering over 160 feet tall, with its fruit holding 10 to 21 nuts. Perfect fuel for adventurers like us. And of course, the Amazon’s diverse wildlife made appearances too. While we didn’t spot jaguars or toucans this time, we were still greeted by howler monkeys, giant otters, exotic birds, and yes—even anacondas. Every encounter reminded me just how alive this vast ecosystem is.
Lessons Among the Trees
What struck me most wasn’t just the beauty of the Amazon, but its perspective-shifting power. In a place so immense and alive, you realize how small you are and how much there is left to learn. The rainforest humbles you—it challenges what you think you know and replaces it with awe.
The Amazon isn’t just a destination; it’s a teacher. It whispers lessons about balance, resilience, and interconnectedness in every rustling leaf, every ripple on the river, and every call of a distant bird.
A Trip to Remember
Looking back, my time in Brazil feels like a reel of unforgettable moments: stargazing by the fire, breathing in the purest air, climbing towers above the canopy, and soaking in the sounds of the jungle. Each memory loops in my head like the perfect boomerang.
Muito obrigada, Brazil. You’ve given me a gift I’ll never forget—one that redefined what it means to truly travel. Until I return, I’ll carry these lessons and memories close to my heart.
And to my LIKEtoKNOW.it family—thank you for making this adventure one of the most meaningful journeys of my life. The Amazon wasn’t just another destination, it was a once-in-a-lifetime reminder of wonder, connection, and gratitude.
