Albergue do Pirata is a very basic hostel in need of some modernization -- if you are seeking a hostel with all mod-cons, this is not the place for you. If however, you are seeking a quiet, friendly place in unspoiled surroundings and are not too concerned with creature comforts then we can recommend a stay here.
The Location
This hostel is quite some way from the centre of Florianopolis, being located on the Southern tip of Ilha de Santa Catarina. From the main Bus Terminal, turn right and walk the short distance to the urban bus terminal. From here take bus number 410 from Platform C, stay on until it reaches another terminal. When you get off of the 410, stay on the same platform and at the far end you can catch bus number 563 to Costa de Dentro, it may take around forty-five minutes to arrive although this very much depends upon traffic. If you ask, the bus will drop you outside the hostel. The hostel is situated in a lovely part of the island -- unspoiled countryside and only a few minutes' walk away from a beautiful beach, however it is quite secluded so please do not stay here if you are seeking lively nightlife! If you are planning a stay here you should also note that there are no banks in the vicinity, you should withdraw money from ATMs in Florianopolis before taking the bus.
Rooms and Bathrooms
The dorms are perhaps the hostel's worst aspect. They are single-sex only (none co-ed), have a somewhat musty smell, and the sparse furniture has seen better days -- most notably the lockers which are wooden and mostly in a state of disrepair. Those lockers that are in one piece are not big enough to hold a large backpack and it is not possible to lock the dorm-room doors. There is no air conditioning nor ceiling fans so the dorms can get quite warm. If you prefer you can request a private room at extra cost. The hostel has two bathrooms, one for men and one for women guests -- they are clean and functional and the showers are good and the water hot at all times.
Common Spaces
There are two common areas. The kitchen/lounge area has a long table and benches and a couple of small sofas, a TV, and DVD player. There's also an outside a patio area with tables and chairs where breakfast is served. The kitchen is small but there is an oven and a fridge/freezer available for guest use if desired. On occasion food is offered for an additional fee (although this does not appear to be a regular occurrence). The hostel does provide Wi-Fi for those with laptops and for those without there are two computer terminals available for use at no extra charge.
Summary
On the downside, security is not a key feature at this hostel. The place could certainly benefit from some cosmetic improvements. On the plus side, this is a quiet, friendly hostel set in peaceful, picturesque surroundings and it is one of the cheapest on the island!
— Exklusive Hostelz.com Übersicht
March 2009
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