I have just returned from a trip to Rio with my father where we spent 8 amazing days at Casa 48. I have to say: this is one of the best places I have ever stayed, anywhere in the world. On every level.

Rio is an amazing place all on its own, but staying at Casa 48 gave us a view of Rio that Im convinced most tourists never get to see. And Axel and Valentine were perfect hosts.

The location of the unit is amazing - the view exactly as per pics. We felt completely at home and safe at this guest house and surrounding areas and concluded very quickly, having wandered far and wide around the city, that we were staying in the best part of Rio.

The unit is perfectly situated at the top of a hill, with gorgeous Santa Teresa on one side and a really peaceful happy favela which felt like the real brazil on the other. At not a single time did we feel unsafe in the areas surrounding the guesthouse. And in terms of exploring the rest of the city, with Axel and Valentine's excellent guidance and orientation, and explanations about public transport etc - we got to explore Rio far and wide without any problems in a way that I felt other tourists don't experience.

We were amazed at how quiet and peaceful the area was - waking up to the sound of birds in the morning and almost nothing else - hard to believe in a major city.

Breakfasts were awesome - thumbs up Valentine :)

We did several tours with Axel and had an amazing time, he is a brilliant guide and all round great guy - super knowledgeable and passionate in his explanation of things, really cares about his guests and is committed to making sure they have an authentic experience. We saw so many things with Axel that we would never have discovered on our own and he is just a truly great guide - lots of time in cool places, no rushing about - you don't feel like your even on a tour.

I would highly recommend anyone staying at Casa 48 to take the opportunity of doing a few tours with Axel, particularly some of the hiking and favela tours, but also the tour of the city centre - we did this on day 1 and it really helped orient us.

In terms of exploring the city and accessibility / transport, we did not find the location of Casa 48 to cause any issues at all - there is easy access to the centre of the city via tram / bus - and we went to the beach area at least every second day, catching bus / metro down there and a taxi back (which was inexpensive - far less than the money we saved by not staying in the overpriced and far less appealing beachside accommodation!).

All round - best place ever.