Americo Guest House

Cockroaches in the rooms, dirty surroundings, no customer service, and a horrible breakfast.

I felt unsafe on the very deserted street where Palma Hostel is located, and the staff seemed indifferent. They barely answered questions and didn't seem interested in helping. The pictures in the listing also don't match what the place is really like. The hostel looks old and clearly needs maintenance. My bed was uncomfortable, the mattress was worn, and the sheets had no elastic, which made their aged look obvious. Breakfast was disappointing too. The food wasn't presented or kept with much care: the fruit salad was left out attracting mosquitoes, and I picked up a dirty utensil straight from the cutlery box. I wouldn't recommend Palma Hostel or return.

The price felt like very good value, even with breakfast charged separately at R$20 per person. I had breakfast there because the historic center was practically all closed when I went out at 9 a.m. It was an almost unavoidable option, and it was approved, though nothing special. The hotel is pleasant and charmingly decorated, including the room, where finished walls contrast with stone ones. It's well located, especially if you want to explore the city's historic center, and the place is well cared for with clean rooms. My room was reached over a wooden floor that made a lot of noise, so footsteps at night could be bothersome, though I could live with it. The internet was disappointing. Otherwise, plenty to like: comfortable bed, quiet AC, an easy shower, TV with good reception, and no issues with cleanliness. I enjoyed the stay and recommend it.

I would stay here again, but I'd make sure I could get out of the Américo Hostel annex and reach breakfast. I stayed at the Rua da Palma location, which is separate from the other section. One morning I woke early to eat and visit the historic center, but the way to reception and the street was locked. I tried several ways to contact someone, including the front desk number, without success. At 8:55, another guest opened the door after going to breakfast in the other annex and explained that it was on the next block. I don't know how he had a key. Reception at this annex only starts operating around 11. Breakfast ended at 9, so I missed it despite having paid 15 reais, though they refunded me. Ask about the exit if you stay there so you don't get locked in or miss breakfast. Bruna, the owners' daughter, was very friendly and helpful, as were her parents. For the price, I thought the facilities were okay. The buildings are old, but I liked the atmosphere. The place was clean and had a good setup. Rooms have AC, switched on at 10 p.m. The shared room had a mix of newer and older mattresses, plus a TV. The downstairs shared bathrooms were clean. The main issue was that shower water didn't all drain away and some ran toward the door because the floor slope was faulty, but it wasn't a big problem for me.