HI - Olinda - Olinda Hostel

Olinda, one of the compulsory stopovers on the main gringo trail along the Brazilian coast. To get there you have to go to Recife first, the big city next door (6 km). From there you take a bus that takes you to the main square (and beyond) of Olinda. Actually Olinda is almost a suburb of Recife these days, but do not tell the locals that.

The hostel is probably one of the nicest in the country and highly recommended in all ways. Of course the nice and welcome swimming pool does help a lot. The hammocks around the spacious courtyard make it very hard to leave this place, especially when you are tired of a long trip.

Near the swimming pool are lovely single and double rooms and a few dorms as well. Dorms are spacious and have either four, six, or eight beds. In the main house itself are two more dorms on the second floor, reached by a beautiful iron spiral staircase that is difficult to navigate with big backpacks though. All dorms have lockers for valuables and locks can be obtained from reception by paying a refundable deposit. Bunk beds are comfortable but can be squeeking a bit when tuning around as it is all wood. Pillows, blankets, and sheets are all clean and comfortable. Showers are clean and have warm water, toilets have plety of toilet paper and are clean as well.

Breakfast is included in the price and is fabulous -- fresh fruits, breads, coffee, juices, cakes, cheese, ham, and marnmelade. The staff is very friendly and the hostel is secured by a locked gate. Security in Olinda is getting a problem though, so do not take any valuables on the streets at night. Near reception is a small but comfortable TV room with international television. Lots of information and maps about Olinda and Recife is on the walls.

This highly recommended hostel, which is a Hostelling International hostel (members get discounts), is an example for all hostels in the world and then place to stay if you happen to be in town!

— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
January 2005