Samba Angra dos Reis

Breakfast was the low point: cold eggs and sausage, stale cakes, and the same thing every day. The pool looks old, but it works fine. The hotel itself is a little old too. Our room was great and had split air conditioning, while all the others had the older kind. The place could use a pick-me-up.

The terrace was probably the best part of the room. The room itself was alright, though the hallway was pitch black at night and a red door at the end made it feel kind of creepy. The bathroom was okay, and the area is close to beaches, which earns an extra star, but it’s overpriced for what you get. We couldn’t use the pool because maintenance kept it closed until almost closing time, which was annoying. The bed was uncomfortable, and the AC was so loud we couldn’t sleep well. It’s expensive and not that nice, so I wouldn’t return.

The buffet was good value, and the food was actually quite decent. My caipirinha was excellent too. But the service was so frustrating that I won't come back. When I asked for the wine list, I was told there wasn't one, and apparently no wine at all was available, even though this is a hotel serving buffet dinners. Two waiters tried my Mastercard and neither seemed to know what they were doing. I ended up paying cash, even though my card worked at both restaurants next door. The staff came across like a bunch of scared rabbits, especially when dealing with international guests. That irritation outweighed the food for me. I doubt they care.

The restaurant and breakfast room are inconveniently out of the way, especially when it's raining. The hotel itself is comfortable, with an old fashioned feel, and the gardens and old ruin around it are lovely. I had a pleasant stay, though I'd avoid a room above reception.