I knew things were going too well. (Part II).

And today I have an eye infection.

So the morning was spent at the Tourist Police, and the afternoon trying to find an eye specialist. 

Given my earlier entry about ATM extortion by the Rio police, I was a little anxious when ushered into a car with three unlikely looking officers (shorts and t-shirt wearing but toting guns and truncheons) in Ipanema; but a few minutes later I was dropped-off at the office that handles crimes against tourists and I quickly had the required paperwork.

I dread falling sick when travelling on my own in a country where I speak very little of the language. However, at the clinic too the staff were similarly helpful; a nurse even accompanied me several blocks to another specialist and interpreted for me in perfect English. A prescription later, and 260 Reis lighter (about 75GBP), and I was on my way with considerable peace of mind. Time and money well spent.

All of which reaffirms my view - despite the unpleasant beach episode - that, with some exceptions, Cariocas are warm, kind and generous people. I like them very much indeed.