Sonho de Iracema Hostel Boutique

The air conditioning runs on a fixed schedule, from 8pm to 8am. Even by the seafront, getting dressed to go out can be uncomfortable in the heat, so starting it at sunset instead might work better. Breakfast is generous, with good choices, eggs made to order, and natural juices I'd recommend. The staff are caring and attentive. The hostel is well run by an Italian-Brazilian couple, and if you're coming from Europe, I think you can trust it. For a longer stay, I'd prefer a bunk bed with some privacy and space. At full capacity, having so many people sharing the room and bathroom could be challenging.

Rooms open onto a patio with an ocean view, and the top floor is quieter, so book ahead if that's what you're after. The hostel is clean, right in front of the beach, and the owner is cool. Breakfast has everything you need, including eggs made to order.

The beds make a lot of noise whenever someone is on the bunk above, and breakfast was bad. There was nothing worth the time. I paid 20 euro for this so-called boutique hostel, where cigarette smoke followed me everywhere and drunk guests showed no respect. The photos really shouldn't fool you. Thank God I stayed just one night and am moving away from this hell. People smoked all over the place, including the breakfast area and terrace, though not inside the rooms. At 3 am, some very drunk guests blasted music in the swimming area in front of the female shared room, waking me and another girl. She put in her earphones and played music, while I went to speak to them. They turned it off, then started again ten minutes later. I had to come back and literally yell at the very drunk men, who were drinking a big bottle of Absolute Vodka. Only after that did the reception guys come and help. The beachside location doesn't make up for the smoke, drunk smokers, lack of respect, and poor management at this 'dream' hostel. Be careful, this place attracts people with really bad habits.

The location is perfect for swimming at Iracema beach, checking out nearby restaurants, bars, and clubs, or taking a sightseeing tour. The hostel itself is reason enough for me to return to Fortaleza. Jessica and Gianluca are wonderful hosts, with a great sense of humor and real hospitality. They work hard to make guests feel at home and do their best to handle special requests and late bookings. I hope to be back soon!