Molly Peterson
Google
In SP for a conference, and needed a respite for a couple of nights at the end of the trip. I am only sorry my visit to Pousada Zilah was so short.
Cozy and personal, immaculately clean, Zilah had everything I needed and nothing I didn't. It was a respite from the nonstop of the city, right at the top of Paulista -- that busy street just a quick little walk away. Not that you'd know it from the courtyard, with a pond and the peaceful sound of water.
This is quite obviously a great place for a family reunion. An indoor dining room held tables, a couch, and some books, with more in the hallway. It's a cozy setup, with five rooms, three of similar size, one for families, and one with a lovely vista over SP.
My room in particular was amazing, with a small deck, table, chair, and hammock, which I made full use of. A plant in the shower captured and filtered water as it ran away, part of an ingenious system for integrating nature into an environmentally friendly infrastructure supporting the bed and breakfast. The blackout curtains made my room into a womb, and I slept like a baby.
Breakfast was a standout. Over the course of my first week in Brazil, we were fortunate to eat many delicious things. But I and my colleague -- who also got a room there -- just kept smiling to each other about how lucky we were as we enjoyed a glorious breakfast cake -- there's no other word for it -- just one part of a full buffet of anything else we wanted, including wonderful coffee and eggs made to order.
All of this, I could easily see, was due to our hostess, an experienced b&b proprietor. For those departing via night flight, like I was, she'll hold your bags all day while you explore around. A memorable stay, and excellent value. I already am hoping to return.