Cold wave makes occupation in the mountain region of Rio reach 80% at the weekend

The low temperatures in Rio de Janeiro anticipated the high winter season in hotels in the mountain region of the state. According to the Rio de Janeiro Hotels Association (ABIH), occupancy in hotels and inns could reach 80% this weekend.

Cities like Petrópolis, which was heavily affected by the rains at the beginning of the year, expect up to 90% of rooms booked on the coldest weekends.

“In winter, people come to the mountains to enjoy the cold weather. Demand has already started, even with the season starting, in a stronger way, only in June and July” highlighted the president of the Union of Means of Accommodation and Restaurants (SindiPetrópolis), Germano Valente.

In other places, such as Nova Friburgo, Itaipava and Teresópolis, occupancy can be between 50% and 65% on weekends.

“It was a great surprise this cold wave. It provides a heating up of the mountain economy. The period of heavy rains has ended and this brings greater accessibility to tourism. The entire gastronomic and hotel sector is confident of a stronger recovery from June onwards”, said Bruno Rosa, from the Brazilian Federation of Accommodation and Food in the Serrana Region.

According to Climatempo, cities should register minimum temperatures close to 7°C. There is little chance of rain. During the week, very low temperatures were recorded in these cities: 1.8°C in Petrópolis, 2.6°C in Nova Friburgo and 6.5°C in Teresópolis.

But for those who will stay in the capital of Rio de Janeiro, there are also ways to take advantage of the low temperatures. Some waterfront kiosks are replacing coconut water with wine. In addition, establishments have provided blankets to warm customers.