When visiting São Paulo, I usually like to stay in Jardins. To me is the perfect neighborhood for someone that is looking for a great and quiet location. My favorite hotels in Jardins are the Mercure Jardins when I’m on a small budget and Renaissance São Paulo when I’m looking for a splurge.
The Renaissance is located one block from Avenida Paulista (the most famous street in São Paulo) and the subway station. You also have several good restaurants and stores nearby. If you are looking for a casual drink or late night snack, Augusta Avenue is your best bet.
My favorite spot in the area is the La Bella Pães e Doces, located 300 meters (328 yards) from the hotel. La Bella is a bakery, but there are so many things that look like a small grocery store. This is a great place to eat breakfast or a snack.
The hotel decor and architecture is great, but my favorite detail about this property is the service. On my first night at the hotel, I requested room service, and there was a small mistake about my order. I called the room service department and they went above and beyond to solve the issue right away, as an apology the dish was complimentary.
I also had a great experience with the concierge. I was traveling to São Paulo for a birthday party, and I called the hotel in advance to request suggestions about a hair salon in the area. Celso, the concierge, recommend me an awesome hairdresser and makeup artists nearby. I was so pleased with his recommendation that I still go to this same salon every time I’m in town.
As we know, the most important things in a hotel are the bed and shower. As we expect, the bed at the Renaissance is very comfortable. The standard rooms have a lot of desk space for working and great view (you get a higher floor). What I really like is the fact they provide outlet converter for all rooms, you don’t need to call the front desk to ask for one. The bathroom is almost as big as the bedroom, they have a large Jacuzzi and double sinks. The only the negative about the bathroom is the water pressure for the standing shower.
The breakfast at the hotel is great, but for the Brazilian standards, I would expect more for a luxury hotel. There is definitely room for improvement. If breakfast is not included in my rate, I usually skip the breakfast at this hotel and go get a small bite to eat at a local bakery or juice bar in the area. I would eat at the hotel only if I’m too tired or running late. Sometimes this hotel has promotions with Visa or weekend sales, where breakfast is included.
