Hostel Praia 102

This was probably the worst hostel stay I’ve ever had. I don’t speak Portuguese, so I expected check-in might be tricky, but I can usually manage with a translation app or a friend who can help. The front desk worker wouldn’t cooperate at all, and seemed to be drinking. He was clearly intoxicated through the whole interaction. Another guest eventually helped me check in, or so I thought. About an hour later, the person running the place returned and said I had to pay again, even though I’d shown him my booking receipt. It felt like he was trying to scam me. He also made me fill out the same paperwork three times. I’d strongly recommend avoiding this hostel.

The location was the only good part of this awful place. The reception and staff were rude, the room was dirty and unbearably hot, with cockroaches, and there was no comfort at all. I brought food and it was stolen from the fridge and eaten. The bathroom was filthy, and they didn’t keep track of reservations, because they tried to make me leave before checkout. The worst travel experience I’ve had. I don’t recommend it.

Avoid this place. There were bedbugs and cockroaches, and money and food were stolen from rooms. Drunk people wandered around all day and hung out in the lounge. A drunk man harassed me, and staff just laughed instead of stepping in. There was a lot of traffic in the rooms, with several people possibly using the same bed during the night and rotating with staff. I really didn’t feel comfortable using my phone there.

I lived in this hostel for six months and had a great time. I met wonderful people there, the volunteers were attentive, and the owners were really nice. I recommend staying in this happy place.