Travel: The Maze Rio

View from The Maze

Another Monday.  As the temperature drops and sunlight becomes a distant memory perhaps your contemplating your escape for the impending freeze. For those of you considering the sunny shores of Brazil (which I really recommend you do) here is one of my favourite winter escapes.

Head to Rio and book yourself a room at The Maze.  Back in 2000 Bob Nadkarni persuaded the governor of Rio to convert a warehouse behind his home in Catete favela into a police head quarters.  The presence of the police pushed out the drug runners and now it's one of the safest districts in Brazil. Bob has run a small guest house since 2005 which boasts one of the best views in Brazil.  The residents are so grateful to Bob you can safely walk into the favela, camera in hand as no one will harm a guest staying at 'casa Bobby'.

Book yourself one of the double rooms and you will enjoy the most beautiful sunrise you'll ever see followed by the best breakfasts in Rio.  Bob will entertain you with stories from his career as foreign correspondent for the BBC, working for Stanley Kubrick and documentary film making. Whilst you flip through the guest book filled with messages from movie stars and musicians who have enjoyed Bob's hospitality.

Direct flights to Brazil in January start from £666.
Doubles at the Maze Inn cost from R$90 (£25) a night

Off setting costs

£24.44