I say this hotel is an island because it's a little point of civilization and politeness in the middle of the ocean of disorder, noise and bad smell that characterize the center of Rio de Janeiro. So, if you go to Rio for business and you will not have time to get around, visit and enjoy the city, this is the right place. But if you expect to go around on foot to explore the neighbourhood... NO! DON' T DO THAT! Is dangerous and over all desagreable.
Well, I continue the review because it is fair to tell about the good things in this hotel. In spite of its location, Guanabara is a good hotel, I can even say the best one I ever stayed in Rio de Janeiro. The friendly staff (unfortunately I have to say this) is an exception in that city, where people seem to have no manners. The breakfast is average for this category of hotels in Brazil, it's ok but nothing special. The rooms are large, comfortable and some of them have jacuzzi in the bathroom. The avenue where it is located is... more