With the soccer world cup and the next Summer Olympics, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil has been getting a lot of press. Whether you’re a fan of Neymar, Havianas or speak a bit of Portuguese – Rio has much to offer. A short overnight flight from the east coast of the United States, Rio de Janeiro offers visitors sightseeing, culture, cuisine, scenic views, and endless vistas. From the top of Corcovado to the bottom of the highly populated favelas, Rio is filled with life.

A Note from ChristaD, Education and the Rainforest Editor:  

This post was written by Kailini C., a high school student from the Gunston School in Maryland.  Kailani is a participant in the 2015 Amazon Workshops Student Field Reporter Project which enlisted the help of several students to share their 2015 Amazon experiences with us. Over the coming months, the Education and the Rainforest posts will feature Kailani's words, photos, and reflections – giving you a student's perspective on travel to the Amazon and its educational impact!  

A Jubilee is a joyful time for Catholics, a special year for forgiveness, universal pardon, and remission of sins. The Jubilee is personally marked by physical passage through one of 7 Holy Doors in the world. It is a time of pilgrimage, for to pass through the Holy Door is to go through a rite of passage. The door is open to all persons of good will.

Some of the most recognizable abbeys and cathedrals in the UK are visited often, but taking some time to visit other abbeys and cathedrals provides you with a chance to see a variety of less crowded places. During my time in London, I saw three abbeys and two cathedrals. Why should you make time to explore abbeys and cathedrals? You have the opportunity to enjoy history and see it come to life. You won’t want to pass up the chance to experience a unique part of the United Kingdom!