©
Christian Haugen
Brazil Travel Guide
©
Christian Haugen
The eyes of the whole world were focussed on Brasil in the summer of 2014 when the country played host to the FIFA World Cup. Not all the focus was positive it has to be said. However, Casa da Gente, an unusual and surprising house located up on the heights above Rio de Janeiro, is just what is required to highlight, to anyone visiting Brazil, the laudable ecotourism initiative taking place in the country and which is helping to build an image of Brazil as a highly forward-looking and progressive nation. A quick guided tour.
At Casa da Gente, you be can sure you are staying in a house where the focus truly is on protecting the environment: rainwater is collected and used, food waste is composted, the property has a green roof (covered with vegetation), natural light is used extensively, there is an urban orchard, and water is heated using solar power: this guest house basically runs on various environmentally friendly systems and solutions.
And Casa da Gente is not just about putting an eco-friendly roof over your head for the night. The guest house's employees can arrange trips and guided visits for you. From walks in Tijuca Forest to visits to the Santa Marta Favela, a whole range of things are possible. It really does offer a truly different way to visit and explore Rio de Janeiro and the surrounding area.
In her guest house up on the heights of Santa Teresa, Pauline Grosso offers a warm welcome to the types of travellers who are looking to be more than just simple tourists when visiting Brasil. At this light and airy property decorated with recycled furniture and local natural ornaments and items, you will be able to enjoy wonderful views over the city of Rio, and the local employees will be able advise you about where to go and what to see and do, enabling you to explore the city just like the locals themselves do.
Rooms at the guest house cost from around £24 per night, and during your stay you'll be able to benefit from the local experience of the English speaking staff, who will be only too happy to act as your tourist guides! Casa da Gente has been established in Rio de Janeiro since 2002. Breakfast is included in the room price and offers the chance to sample local treats such as fresh fruit juices, homemade yoghurts and soft, tasty wholemeal bread … and there is even a WiFi connection!
