BrazilMay 3, 2019, by Maartje

2 x overnight stays in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Brazil, May 3, 2019, by Maartje

2 x overnight stays in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Are there countries that appeal more to the imagination? Brazil? Well? The South American country excels in its use of colour, exuberant people, wonderful culture and the most beautiful beaches. We have previously stayed in the truly wonderful Trancoso (really, you want it), and, thanks to Lisa, we now have two of the best places to stay in Rio de Janeiro. Again: you want it... 2 x overnight stays in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Discovery Suites

Discovery Suites

It is certainly a discovery. Even if I say so myself. It is a bit of a climb to Santa Teresa, but once you are parked on the terrace of this boutique hotel, with a cocktail under your nose, you will realize that the climb was more than worth it. It's quite a nice feeling to come home here.

Discovery Suites is a luxury getaway from three international managers who started with the successful Discovery Hostel just down the road. The hotel is built in a formalin church, slicked in turquoise paint, and is situated on a steep corner overlooking the famous mini tram (banihno) where the monkeys run after each other on the electricity cables (for real!) and the nicest street in the neighborhood begins. Here you will find bustling beer bars, and the best cheese sandwiches and acai just a stone's throw away.

Stay the night? That is possible, I would almost say it must be. Settle down in one of the five spacious guest rooms, with... en suite bathroom covered with plants and dark moldings for a tasteful moment of rest in this concrete jungle. Important tip: definitely go for the Tiki Taka Na Combuca on the aforementioned terrace! This fruity rum cocktail with cinnamon comes in a coconut. Super delicious and 100% Instagram-proof.

Discovery Suites

Hotel Santa Teresa

Hotel Santa Teresa

In 2008, the Frenchman Francois Delort converted this formal farmhouse from a coffee plantation into 43 rooms for rent. Quite large, but with the whole it feels like shop. The massive, colonial use of wood is chic and calms you down. The only troublemaker here is the power of the pool magnet. This one is strong. The color of the water, the classic striped sunbeds along the side, good service drinks & bites en the panoramic view of the city and Guanabara Bay you don't want to miss it.

And another plus: no music is played. Delicious! No lounge or tasteless pool tunes, but just the background noise of the concrete jungle, a tropical rain shower or simply, your own Spotify list. You will also find a bar and a restaurant in the garden. A visit to both is also recommended, if only for the best breakfast I had in Rio. A true one needles among the hotels.

Santa Terasa