Rede Andrade Lapa

We were given two single beds even though we booked a double. The area is rough, and the service was terrible. There was no flexibility with check-in; they only hand out keys at exactly 2 pm, and we got just one room key. The cleaners took our towels and didn't replace them. Reception staff apparently had no spare towels they could access, so I was told I had to wait 24 hours for a replacement. When it arrived, it was so old it was see-through. I also asked to check out an hour later, but the staff simply said no without checking whether the room was booked after us.

The staff were amazing and very helpful, and with reception open 24 hours they could help whenever we needed. We had a great time. The rooms were comfortable and modern, with air conditioning, a mini fridge, bidet, hot water, and a desk. Breakfast was included and delicious, with different breads, cheese, ham, eggs, sausages, cereals, granola, fruit, juice, and coffee. It was cheaper than places like Copacabana or Ipanema because it's inland, in the middle of the city rather than on the beach. For public transport, it's a great spot: the bus stop is right outside, and a ride to those beaches costs 4.40 reais. I felt safe there. We walked around late at night and never felt unsafe. There are lots of restaurants and bars open with sidewalk tables, so plenty of people are around. As long as you don't show valuables or keep running around with your phone out, nobody bothers you.

It's a cute little hotel with a bit of a hostel feel. The staff are friendly and try their best to communicate in English, but they aren't flexible about check-in times. There were more than 10 people waiting over two hours in the small lobby, with only three seats and no air conditioning.

I was stuck in Rio for a night and found this gem for US $20. The room was a little small, but for one person it was money well spent. It was very clean and quiet, with no street noise, and breakfast was included. The staff were friendly and understood English. I'd book again without a doubt. Downtown and close to everything.