Rio Holiday Staff

Who wants to work on their vacation?  I know I don't, but if you are the "scout master" of your traveling troop (and you probably are if you are reading this page), you know that great experiences don't just happen - they require planning.  Relax - we've done all of this and we believe we've thought of everything.  Just let us know if you need more info or desire something out of the ordinary.

Your ideal Rio experience is the responsibility of our staff, headed up by our Hospitality Manager.  Think of your Hospitality Manager as your front desk clerk, concierge, tour guide, and translator.  She manages all aspects of the property, services, and the household staff.   When on the premises and not meeting with guests, her goal is to be invisible and not to intrude on guest privacy.  The soul of discretion, she understands that a Rio Holiday may involve late nights at the house, around the pool, or away in town.  Your Hospitality Manager can also be hired as a tour guide, whether you are interested in the main tourist sites, shopping, or sampling the nightlife.  The Hospitality Manager is generally available by telephone during the day and evening to answer your questions or aid in arranging transportation or other services.  In true emergencies, someone on the staff is available by cell phone 24 hours a day.

Your Hospitality Manager also serves as your Concierge and can arrange almost anything that you might need to make your stay more enjoyable.  She can provide tour information, side trips, fishing, boating, or sports tours.  Want to see a soccer game, rent a video tape, or exchange dollars?  Just ask your Hospitality Manager.  She can provide both verbal and written translation services.  She knows the best restaurants and even has translated menus available for some.  Better than a Concierge, she is your personal travel assistant, responsible for making sure you get the most out of your vacation.

Alfredo is our principal driver and tour guide.  He is very familiar with Rio and the environs and loves to explain the many nuances of Brazilian life to visitors.  We also employ several other part time drivers.  You will love chatting with him in English, and maybe picking up a few words or phrases in Portuguese as well.

Rio Holiday employs four competent and trustworthy maids.  One of them is usually on the property during the day from Monday through Saturday.  Their job is to prepare and serve breakfast, clean the house and guest rooms daily, and to make sure that everything is clean and fresh.  They are also responsible for guest laundry and simple food service.

We have two gardeners and handy men.  They visit each house at least 3 days a week to make sure that the pool is sparkling clear and ready for your enjoyment.   They are in charge of the exterior areas of the house, freshening the garden, sweeping the walks and terraces, and do the heavy lifting and cleaning.

For parties and more sophisticated dining at the house, we can arrange a cook or even additional wait staff at a modest charge.

What's it like to have servants?

This luxury will probably spoil you more than anything else on your Rio Holiday.  Some people worry about a lack of privacy, but it is only a little less than in a hotel and you get so much more in return.  Our staff understands that people are here on vacation, don't want to feel on display, and don't want to see too much of the behind the scenes work that makes their day leisurely.  When not busy, the servants are generally in the kitchen or service area.  They are not usually in a part of the guest areas unless they are quietly working.