"How did it strike you on arrival? It rises like a European palace out of the emerald-green Burle Marx park, incongruous perhaps with the sprawl of São Paulo that surrounds it, but all the more welcoming as an oasis to find peace and quiet in Latin America's biggest city. Nice. What’s the crowd like? This isn't a place that attracts the cool creatives of the world. Rather, the crowd skews older, and the hotel is filled with people looking for something quiet, away from the bustle of São Paulo, not those looking to embrace it. Its Eden-like surroundings—located as it is in a giant, verdant park—and its palatial setting means it can feel a world apart from the city that it's in, but what it lacks in local tradition it more than makes up for in grand opulence. The good stuff: Tell us about your room. If you've stayed in an Oetker Collection hotel before, like Le Bristol in Paris, you should know what to expect. It's all European elegance, with flower-laden terraces and white-glove services. The rooms are decorated in muted tones and subtle nods to the region. In a 7,500-square-foot room, besides a luxurious king bed, you'll find a sofa, table with chairs, a large flat-screen TV, and an extensive mini-bar. The bathroom, done up entirely in marble, has its own sound system and a separate tub and shower. Make sure to get a view of the park, an Atlantic rainforest filled with endemic fauna. You might just have a monkey on your balcony when you wake up in the morning. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase? The lobby, decked out in light fixtures made from antique crystal decanters, is a wonder in itself. There you might find someone playing soft bossa nova on the grand piano next to the bar or a violinist serenading guests. It's usually a lively scene of locals having meetings or guests enjoying afternoon tea. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why? The service is seriously exceptional, whether you're dealing with a server at the exclusive-feeling Tangará Jean-Georges restaurant or the concierge. As an example, when I mentioned that I was a fan of Burle Marx, who designed the park, an hour later a folder full of information on the Brazilian landscape architect was sent to my room. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you. Two large pools, one indoor and outdoor, and the subterranean Sisley spa are additional highlights. As is the opportunity to have a traditional English high tea while overlooking dense the Amazonian foliage that fills the park. Also, don't miss the wine cellar, where you can participate in wine tastings (including of Brazilian varieties) on a bespoke table, made with glass and pequia tree roots. Bottom line: worth it, and why? While this isn't the non-stop São Paulo you may have expected, that's kind of the point. Here, in the heart of an expansive park filled with birds and monkeys, is a refuge from the frenzy of this teeming metropolis. It's palatial luxury of the kind you'll find all over Europe—but will rarely encounter in Latin America."
