After a few months and intense work in NYC I had to attend a very hectic conference in Rio. So I decided to take advantage of being in such a beautiful city and stay for a few days to chill and relax. By pure chance I came across the Ananab Guesthouse Rio. This privately run guesthouse was beautiful and charming. Located in the South of Rio residential area called Laranjeiras, was close to buses and subways with easy access to the main areas of interest. Being also not far from a commercial street, taxis were easy to find.

The 2 hosts Roberto and Dirk were very friendly and helpful. Dirk explained all about moving around Rio and how to minimize any of the usual dangers of the city, how to recognize the right type of taxis to take and any other dos and don’ts. He gave me details of a private tour company and I managed to organize a couple of interesting tours on the spot. Breakfast was more like a Roman feast, looked beautiful and was tasty and filling. Roberto's Vitamina, a secret recipe morning drink, was the fuel that would get me going all day and night!

The easiest mode of transport was by taxi, apart from pick time, when traffic was very slow, but my hosts explained very clearly when to avoid traveling around the city and how to spend that time having fun!

My room was clean, full of light, comfortable and with a direct view of the Christ. The shared bathroom was spacious and spotless. The hosts helped me planning my stay, gave me plenty of suggestions to maximize my limited time and on the Friday night, my last night, they organized a dinner party inviting along their local friends. We had cocktails by the swimming pool and then delicious food downstairs in the leaving area. Dirk and Roberto fostered a great atmosphere, making everybody feel very comfortable and happy.

After the party I decided to stay in, but they just put me on a taxi with one of their friends to take me to Ipanema and enjoy my last night out in the city visiting trendy bars. Needless to say I had a fantastic time. Leaving the day after was like saying goodbye to old friends... they really made me feel home.