Beach Backpackers Hostel

This was the first hostel I ever stayed at, and I've been to hundreds since. I met some great people there and still keep in touch with them. The place wasn't bad, and I've stayed in worse, but I felt misled by the advertising. A few years ago, the hostel's listing on Hostel Bookers promised a bar, games room, fast internet, and lots of great facilities. When I arrived, that wasn't what I found. It felt more like a family home. The hostel lists itself on Hostel Bookers and gives itself fake reviews. The owner even threw a guy out at 2200 for writing an average review. It wasn't negative, he just hadn't rated it five stars like a hotel. There are signs everywhere explaining things like how to flush the toilet, get soap, turn the tap on and off, and use the toaster. That part was pretty entertaining.

The location is hard to beat, close to trendy bars and supermarkets, and the metro gets you to all the main places in Rio. The rooms are comfortable and very clean, and the staff are really helpful. There's a 24-hour bar just for guests, plus a cozy outdoor area where you can plug in your iPod and play whatever you like while having nice drinks. They have happy hour every day. I'll definitely come back!!

I'd read all the bad reviews, but gave the place a chance because my budget was tight. I asked the reception guy if I could see the room before paying, and they wouldn't let me. I rephrased the question to make sure he'd understood, but he still refused to show me before I booked. Shocking, right? So I left. The young man who opened the door greeted me very politely, and the person at reception was friendly too.

Is this how you're welcoming guests during the World Cup? 363,00 US$ for one night in a bed in a 12-bed dorm means 4356,00 US$ for the whole room for one night. Is that really your fair idea of hospitality? It's embarrassing, and I hope there aren't enough fools around who'd be desperate enough to pay such an incomprehensible price. What a shame!