Tracey A.
Yelp
When friends heard I was going to São Paulo they didn't say "that's fabulous". Without fail they said "why?", with concern, before voicing their experiences which ranged from:
* Being pick-pocketed at the airport;
* Having things stolen from them as they laid beside those things on the beach;
* Being robbed at gunpoint, en masse, during the afternoon at a private party in a friend's home; and
* Being certain that a kidnapping was imminent.
I'd be lying if I didn't say these stories left me concerned for my safety. I was arriving in São Paulo solo and meeting with my son later that night, hopefully.
After much research I settled on the InterContinental where, for approximately $195/night including a beautiful daily buffet breakfast for two I believed my son and I would be less likely to fall victim to anything undesirable. Mission accomplished.
The InterContinental chain of hotels is a leap above the places I generally stay. Research seemed to indicate it was a hotel for business people though not located in a solely business district. From what I could tell, it was located in a relatively safe area, in one of the nicest parts of São Paulo.
Though the InterContinental clearly attracts many business people (airline captains too) pleasure travelers shouldn't hesitate to stay here. I found it to be one of the best hotel experiences I've had. Not only was it in a busy, upscale neighborhood but it's very close to the subway, MASP, and some of the best shopping and dining areas of SP. The hotel was immaculate and safe (the lobby area is watched closely, the elevator requires a room key, access to the pool does as well). The front desk staff and concierge were helpful, considerate, and spoke English. The bar area is lovely and doesn't gouge on prices. The breakfast buffet is unequaled: 6 different kinds of fresh fruit juice (including acai), omelets made to order, probiotics, fresh fruits, and even a Japanese breakfast (you won't really need to eat again until dinner).
The room itself was well outfitted. The lush beds held every sort of pillow imaginable. The shower had great water pressure. A separate bathtub was enticing enough to lure me in. The room temperature was easily and accurately controlled and wifi was perfect. I was left with nothing to complain about.
Well, perhaps. The day after his arrival my son decided to go for a swim in the rooftop pool we'd viewed from our 15th floor room. We arrived there only to learn that the entire thing was 2.5 feet deep which gave us both a good laugh. Objects in the window may be smaller than they appear. Still, the pool and sunning patio was immaculate and lovely.
If I were a business traveler or air captain I'd happily stay here. But on my own dime, as a pleasure traveler? I'd definitely stay here. You can put me safely in the big, huge fan category.