Restaurant Estrelas da Babilonia — Hotel in Região Geográfica Imediata do Rio de Janeiro

After traveling to many cities in 17 countries, I am not one to pick favorites but I think Rio could definitely be it. When I think of Rio, I will always think of Estrelas du Babilonia. I travel always wanting to support women owned businesses. Estrelas du Babilonia began by two climate activists and Bibi, a Columbian immigrant to Brazil is currently running the show. ||The space itself - 80% of the place is solar powered, with compost, herb garden, up-cycled infrastructure. Two communal kitchens, garden space and upper deck with an incredible view overlooking the ocean, hills and Christo. The public space right above has an open view that’s incredible.||The restaurant – opened Friday, Saturday and Sunday when I was there in May (busier season it’s open more I think). Bibi and the other two woman who cook and serve at the restaurant set out to bring out the best of Latina flavors. A visual experience as much as it a delicious experience. Bibi stresses that absolutely nothing is made from industrial ingredients. ||AND she brews her own beer! I am not a fan of Saisons but hoping an IPA is in the future! ||Music – Sunday nights a group of Basa Nova musicians play on the terrace. Wanting to embrace the talented people in the community the space is located, the musicians all live nearby. ||Unfortunately I don’t speak Spanish or Portugese, but from the few conversations Bibi and I had over either google translate or from another guest, she is incredible. The work she is doing is the type of tourism I want to continue to support. I can’t wait...

After traveling to many cities in 17 countries, I am not one to pick favorites but I think Rio could definitely be it. When I think of Rio, I will always think of Estrelas du Babilonia. I travel always wanting to support women owned businesses. Estrelas du Babilonia began by two climate activists and Bibi, a Columbian immigrant to Brazil is currently running the show. ||The space itself - 80% of the place is solar powered, with compost, herb garden, up-cycled infrastructure. Two communal kitchens, garden space and upper deck with an incredible view overlooking the ocean, hills and Christo. The public space right above has an open view that’s incredible.||The restaurant – opened Friday, Saturday and Sunday when I was there in May (busier season it’s open more I think). Bibi and the other two woman who cook and serve at the restaurant set out to bring out the best of Latina flavors. A visual experience as much as it a delicious experience. Bibi stresses that absolutely nothing is made from industrial ingredients. ||AND she brews her own beer! I am not a fan of Saisons but hoping an IPA is in the future! ||Music – Sunday nights a group of Basa Nova musicians play on the terrace. Wanting to embrace the talented people in the community the space is located, the musicians all live nearby. ||Unfortunately I don’t speak Spanish or Portugese, but from the few conversations Bibi and I had over either google translate or from another guest, she is incredible. The work she is doing is the type of tourism I want to continue to support. I can’t wait...

Without a doubt, staying here will make you feel like you've had a Rio experience that few other places could match. You get a small insight into what life is like in the favela and Pol and Bibi are great hosts - they are very knowledgeable about this history and culture, speak fluent English/Portuguese/Spanish/French and are trying their best to let people see the human side of the favela.||||The view from the terrace both day and night is great - if they give you a chance to do the walking tour to the top of Babilonia do it, the views are amazing - not spoiled by crowds of people and surrounded by nature. They'll also tell you about the history of the favela on the way up leading to my favourite views of the city.||||The restaurant they have in the evenings has some nice veggie options. Also the Swiss lemonade is awesome after the heat of the day.||||The only down side - it's quite a walk up hill from the beach and the surroundings are not for timid travellers or those looking for luxury. You also won't be able to get a taxi to the door as there's more hill/steps to negotiate. But the hill walk's what gives you the great views and there's some great street art along the way.||||One more note: If they arrange an airport transfer for you with Aero Taxi, they can be found at the Taxi Común kiosk/banca at the airport, which I think is the second kiosk on the right as you come out into the arrivals area.||||You get so much more than just a place to stay here. I would recommend this place to any...