Grande Hotel da Barra

Pros: * spacious clean room * good breakfast opening at 6:30am sharp (doors are locked before then), with lactose-free milk and gluten-free options * okay pool area (no greenery though) Cons: * the A/C was weak, but after running it for one day the room was sufficiently cool (you do need a card in the slot during that day...) * no "Do not disturb" sign to hang onto the doorknob * the desk in the room was small and very annoying for laptop work (round, glass) * the chairs in the room were not comfortable at all * out of all the staff, only one front desk person spoke English * no laundry facilities * no business room * old slow elevator * window didn't insulate from the street noise that well, but I used 33 dB NRR earplugs to block the noise that came through; there are also many rooms that don't face the street * the front gate didn't open automatically with my key; had to wait for staff to open it; other times it was left open

Stayed for carnival great location! Helpful staff. Great pool

The staff were exceptional. The area is quaint and walkable. Several good restaurants. 15 minute taxi ride to old historical centre.