Trancoso Residence

The staff are very friendly and helpful, and despite a few old bad reviews I’d seen, the place seems to have come a long way since last year. It’s not central or on the beach, which explains the lower rates, but you can get there easily by car or public transport. I recommend it as a very good place to stay by Brazilian standards. My apartment was new, comfortable, bright and airy, with plenty of space and a terrace overlooking beautiful forest. The nature sounds and views made for a really relaxing stay. There’s a well-equipped kitchen for light cooking, though the appliances and utensils are basic. Breakfast is served by the nice pool for an extra charge, but the price is reasonable. There are a few small issues I’ve found in Brazilian hotels generally: the lighting is inadequate, though they do use soft lights here, and the construction finish is poor. The doors don’t fully seal, and there are no screens. Bug nets over the beds help when you’re asleep, but in the long run better windows would cost less.