Rio maybe famous for sun, sea and sand, yet one of its most wonderful places is a bohemian district known as Santa Teresa. It’s made up of paved lanes, exquisite art nouveau manors, cafes and arty stores that wouldn’t look out of place on the left bank of Paris. Rio is definitely not just about the beach front, after all.
Perhaps that’s why we find the Mama Ruisa in this wonderful area. Run by Jean Michel Ruiz, a French ex-pat, as Jean says this area has the ”elegance of old Europe and a sensual exotic Brazilian flavour”.
The white washed Mama Ruisa definitely imbues a bit of both. Utterly sophisticated, modern and luxurious, all 7 rooms offer breathtaking views of the world renowned Sugar Loaf Mountain and the Rio de Janeiro bay. Collections of drawing by Jean Cocteau, unique photos by Josephine Baker, Colette, Maria Callas and a collection of religious sculptures from all over Brazil make up that combination of the cool of Europe and warmth of Brazil. The result is utterly bewitching.
Then there’s the swimming pool, which surrounded by palm trees and birds of paradise is simply gorgeous. So you might not be right on the beach, or in the centre of town (both only 15 minutes away) but what a view!

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