Pousada Santa Helena

Very, very simple inn. At 60 reais (10 USD), I can't really complain. The other places I looked at either had no vacancies or cost three times as much. It was much better than camping or sleeping on the street, but I'm not sure I'd come back next time.

I usually write about everything I experience in the hotels I stay in, and every state seems to have its own way of doing lodging. I was told this was an inn, but it felt more like a hostel to me: several beds in one room, with the bathroom in a separate room. There wasn't even toilet paper. I've never stayed in a hostel before, but that's what I'd call this place. It's near the center, though there's no room service or any other service.

It's very basic, with air conditioning and a cold shower, and there's no breakfast. Guests can use a fridge, stove, and microwave to make their own food. Sr Carlos welcomed me warmly. It's close to the church where the pilgrimages take place.

I had a really unpleasant experience. This was the only place available to book because there were events in the area, including Expocrato and the pilgrimages. When we arrived, it was one disappointment after another: no parking, no breakfast, and not even bed linen. On top of that, the owner wanted to charge 25 reais per person to turn on the air conditioning. I don't recommend it.