Socialtel Rio Lapa

I can't speak for the other Socialtel locations, but my experience with this one felt like a scam. I booked a dorm bed for Carnival months ahead, with payment due on arrival. About a month later, they charged my card the full stay. Then they emailed to cancel, saying the dorms were being converted into private rooms. They promised a refund within 30-60 days, which is already a ridiculous wait, and more than two months later I still haven't received it. I've seen other reviews from people describing the same thing. Book with them at your own risk.

The hotel is right in the middle of Lapa, about a five-minute walk from the metro and ten minutes from the bars and clubs. The famous stairs are only two minutes away. There are lots of daily activities, including karaoke and free walking tours, and you get a welcome drink to use at the rooftop bar. The food there is worth trying, though lunch and dinner cost extra. I didn't find the area entirely dangerous as some reviews suggest, but there are plenty of homeless people around. At night, stick to lit streets and avoid going alone if you want to feel safer. My room was lovely, though I did miss having a TV. Breakfast had good choices, but there were far too many fruit flies around the food.

What really soured the stay was the laundry. Three of my white garments were ruined, and at 50 BRL per kilogram I'd expected much more care. Even if Sofitel outsourced the work, it still manages and charges for the service, so it is responsible for how the clothes were handled and for the result. I feel compensation should be offered. I'd used laundry services elsewhere on the same trip for a fraction of the price and had no problems. Damaging three white items is unacceptable for a hotel at this level, and it falls well short of the standard Sofitel's premium image suggests. A very poor experience, and no more than one star from me.

The staff were the best part, especially Mario, who was friendly and always checked that we had what we needed. I stayed here for two weeks and had an amazing time. The room was bright and spacious, and both the breakfast and other food were great. I also really liked the outdoor area. À bientôt !