The Tivoli Sao Paulo Moffarej

A colleague of ours recently stayed at the Tivoli Sao Paulo (not comped, by the way), and here's her report:

I'm happy to report that the experience was just as I remembered it—excellent service, great location, in a city where five-star distinctions can sometimes be debated (and I'm being nice about that--you need to do your research in Sao Paulo!).

In Sao Paulo, your hotel location is even more important than in other major cities, because a difference of two blocks can leave you in an entirely different environment. It might not be as walkable or it might not be as fun for children, so choosing a well-recommended hotel is of paramount importance.

With security concerns in mind, I find locations close to the “main drag” of Avenida Paulista more enjoyable for a general tourist trip to S.P. . . . you are close to everything, and you can take a stroll and shop without feeling like you are sticking out in a crowd. There are several parks near the hotel as well, and while room service is always a big part of the hotel experience, I would recommend venturing out to dine as much as you can: there are tons of great restaurants in the neighborhood, plus cafes and interesting fresh juice stops. There's also a metro station right around the block from the hotel, and the MASP—the Museum of Art, Sao Paulo.

If you can swing it, get a room with a view on a higher floor. No matter where you stay in Sao Paulo, you'll find that being up and away from the street is the way to go. There's less noise, less pollution, and you can feel more comfortable opening the windows wide during the day. While the area is very nice, I also recommend double-checking on whether or not your room is renovated... some are more up-to-date than others, and if you're paying the rates, get the best.

I was told that the gym at the Tivoli is one of its strongest points, and experts were right. While some people don't like to work out during their vacation, it's another part of the experience that you won't forget. Some of the best views and best hotel memories I've had were in hotels like the Tivoli, where the gym has a bird's eye view of the city and very up-to-date equipment. (Check and check.) The Tivoli gym is also frequented by upscale city residents, to give you a good idea of just how popular it is.

While I didn't get to stay in the Presidential Suite, I've heard that is positively palatial—one of the biggest in South America, even. The entire 22^nd floor makes up the suite and includes three bedrooms, a private fitness center, a private kitchen, and a huge living/dining space that's actually larger than the hotel lobby. Don't worry, the Classic and Collection rooms are great, too.

My only problem? That the time went by faster than I would have liked! I've run into issues from time to time where I simply don't want to leave: that was definitely the case this time. I felt like time spent outside the hotel was time wasted when there was something great waiting back on Alameda Santos. But if that's my biggest complaint, then the Tivoli Sao Paulo is doing its job.

Find out more about the Tivoli Sao Paulo Moffarej here at WhataHotel.com.