Arrecifes Hostel

I stayed two nights at Hostel Arrecifes in August 2011. The shared spaces are well set up, the kitchen is nice, and the team is lovely and very helpful. The hostel is well located in Boa Viagem, though there aren't many bars or much nightlife nearby within walking distance. The shared rooms were very good, with sturdy bunk beds and individual lockable chests. I had a double room, which I think was in the older part of the hostel since there's clearly a renovated section. It didn't have the private bathroom I expected, but we could use the other bathrooms. The ceiling was a bit low, so the room felt stuffy. There was a fan but no TV. I'm mentioning the room setup because I had those things at the hostels in maceió and porto de galinhas, so I ended up comparing.

The location worked really well for me, about four blocks from the waterfront and quite close to the airport. Several bus lines stop right nearby and go to the mall and Boa Viagem. I hope to stay there again next time I'm in Recife. I spent four days at the hostel, and the team was efficient and committed, always ready to sort things out. The reception is open 24 hours, which is handy if you return late from parties or arrive in the early morning. The place is spacious, with cable TV, a games room, Wi-Fi, and computers. It was all comfortable, and the air-conditioned room stayed cold, which is essential in Recife. You can also use the kitchen to cook.

The place was clean and well kept, with a great atmosphere, good service, and a varied breakfast. But the location isn't very convenient for someone from out of town. There aren't nearby businesses or taxi stands.

It's simple, with no luxury, but everything is well organized and the facilities are really good. The service is great too. There's a restaurant across the street, a little shop next door, and it's five minutes from the airport and close to Boa Viagem beach. I liked it and recommend it.