Che Lagarto in Isla Grande is no different than the numerous Che Lagarto hostels around Brazil, geared towards backpackers, with all the ease of booking, advice, and amenities you would expect. It does, however, have one huge advantage over the other Che Lagarto hostels -- its location.
Location
Che Lagarto is positioned between two beaches in Isla Grande. On one side is Abraão beach, where the majority of the activity in the island happens, including the majority of the shops, tourist agencies, and restaurants. On the other side, Palmas Cove, is a peaceful little enclave where one can swim from one point to the next. The clear blue water and the closeness of the nature to the beach make it an irresistible place to while away the day.
Rooms and Bathrooms
Rooms are plentiful and clean, with a selection of dormitories and private rooms. Many of the dormitories are restricted to six beds, have bathroom included and plenty of space to move around. There is a high turnover of guests and so rooms are cleaned every day, with bathrooms normally very clean.
Common Spaces
There are two main common spaces, as well as a small area where there is a computer with internet access. The lounge area has plenty of tables and sofas where people can hang around and chat. Joined to this is the terrace, where it is possible to eat your breakfast while viewing the activity on Isla Grande's main beach, and getting some early morning sunshine. The only problem here can be the huge speakers positioned on the terrace, where the staff quite often like to play music quite loudly. Other than these moments, the common areas are normally very good for both relaxing and meeting plenty of new people. There is also a large kitchen, with enough space for two or three people to cook at any one time.
Summary
Che Lagarto is a clean, efficient, well-meaning hostel -- it brings a little of the party atmosphere that it is so well known for in its other incarnations in Rio to the island splendors of Isla Grande. There are only around five hostels in Isla Grande at the moment, and there is not a great deal dividing them.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
September 2009
Location/Contact
4 Average from 1 Rating
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