It was our first visit in Brasil and Rio and I can personaly say that John made our stay in Rio incredible. He is kind of person who REALLY loves to take you around the neighborhood, show you all possible places worth visiting on the map and talk abt Rio for hours:-) It is obvious and easy- he just loves to be with people and share his love for Rio. Eventhough sounds like a cliche, we really felt like visiting some old friend there and together with his dogs, even felt like at home. I do recommend Rio Dolphin if you prefer cozy place to stay for reasonable price and you get even more than you pay. Thank you John!!

John was an excellent host. We arrived at 3AM and he was waiting to greet us. The next day, he showed us the map of Rio and told us the main spots we needed to visit given the limited time we had. Also, he went out of his way to tour us around the area wherein all the great restos and beaches were walking distance from the inn. My friend and I lost our luggages and since we were out the whole day, he would be the one calling the airline to get updates. He hjelped me follow even after we have left Rio!!! GIven the chance to visit Brazil again, I will definitely stay here at Rio Dolphin. Thank you so much John!!!

Quirky cool surf hang out in a great location, really feels like home!

This was our 2nd visit in two years to the Rio Dolphin. At first, we were disappointed to learn that John, the owner, was going to be out of the country AND the inn was technically closed for renovations when we were coming. However, after pleading, John allowed us to take the only room not being touched, and he left us in good hands with his local team. They didn't miss a beat!
First, I wish we could have stayed long enough to see the Inn finished. Each bedroom will now have its own private bath, and the inviting little courtyard off the dining room will be open year round....it was closed off while we were there.
Nevertheless, the inn, and its staff, are loaded with ideas of things to do, both traditional and not so. The two beaches (both within 3 blocks of the inn) and restaurants are adequate to keep anyone fully occupied alone. However, this trip, at the suggestion of Johns assistant manage, Jungi, we took an outstanding Brazilian cooking class, went on a fascinating Favella tour led by a young man that was born and raised there, got sick on some interesting street food at the amazing weekly "hippy fair", and stumbled across the most incredible 1/4 mile of outdoor steps completely covered by artwork from a local artist named Selaron. This must NOT be missed!
The Rio Dolphin is teeming with travel resources, documentaries, photo books, etc. In fact, this time, I noticed that several of the "lonely planet" books about Brazil were loaded with photographs that were contributed by the Inn's owner, an ex-professional photographer!

We'll be back, if only to see the Blue Dolphin Inn in its completed glory!