Buena Onda Hostel

The common area has a pool, and the hostel is in a good spot in Recreio dos Bandeirantes, three blocks from the beach with shops nearby. I felt like I was staying at a relative's home. The women who work there and the owner are lovely, attentive, quick to reply, and make sure things are organized. A couple of things could use attention: the bathroom and bedroom locks, and the air conditioning, which is quite weak for a hot city like Rio. Everything else was great, and I'll definitely come back.

I came to relax, and it was just right for me. I met some really nice people, and the girls who welcomed me were incredibly helpful, explaining everything even though I don't speak Portuguese. I highly recommend it.

The beaches nearby are beautiful, and there are transport options close by, so you can enjoy the scenery. It's a very peaceful and safe place for relaxing and spending a vacation. The staff are lovely, keep things clean, and the social atmosphere is good.

The pool had a green layer of dirt on it. The hostel should be easier to identify because it was hard to find. The owner messaged me, but couldn't give clear directions, only saying that during Carnival the best way from downtown Rio was an Uber that would cost over 250 reais. In the end I had to look up the information myself. As a foreigner, that was difficult, but I managed.