Santa Teresa hotels in Rio?
 

We've read mixed reviews about the Santa Teresa area, e.g., dangerous, not dangerous. But it also sounds like there are a number of nice accommodations there. Does anyone have feedback re: the general safety of the area, or good accommodations that are under $250/night? We plan to be there in late August. Thanks!

I think if you're sensible it's a safe enough area. I'd stay there without a second thought, as it has more of a neighbourhood feel, despite having a large daily influx of tourists.

It's connected to the city by the tram, the bonde. Depending on what you want to see and do, however, it may not be the best location, i.e it's close to galleries, the historical centre etc but it's a reasonable distance from the beaches where most people stay.

In your budget you can stay at nice places

close to or on the beach in Copacabana better area...

http://www.sidestep.com/hotels-rooms..._hotels_brazil

www.brazilnuts.com good deal on the Othons very nice also

I would recommend staying in Ipanema or Leblon for a first trip. We strolled Santa Teresa and had a great meal at Aprazivel but I don't think I would want to stay there if I were planning to tour the city and surroundings. I don't think I'd feel comfortable in the area at night, though during the day there were lots of people.

Rio Exclusive has amazing apartments... you should check it out maybe it is better abd cheaper than hotel!

see you

An ex-pat who knows Rio de janeiro quite well advises against staying in this picturesque area because it's difficult to get to and from there. Stay in Ipanema or Leblon or even Copa where I've stayed on my seven visits prior to 2008. Visit this area; it's worthwhle.

I went twice with my private guide via the tram (...don't remember the correct term.) We went during the day and walked the streets and enjoyed the ambience, the architecture, the museums, the neighborhoods, and just what's there! Take many photos and enjoy those magnificent views.

Thanks all! I think we've decided to stay in Ipanema. We don't want to stay in Copacabana again...stayed there last year and thought the area too dodgy even one block in from the beach.

I know Marija liked the Hotel Ipanema Plaza and am looking into it. Any other recommendations for Ipanema hotels?

ovenbird, do remember that in Brazil the best hotel deals aren't on the hotel websites but through travel agents. See what kind of rate you can get through the agents I mention.

Marija, duly noted already from your trip report...a wealth of information! Thanks.

We just spent 5 nights in Rio. Stay in Ipanema, Arpoador or Leblon. It will be a bit more expensive but worth it in the long run. We rented an apartment, cooked some meals, explored the city and took public transportation without a problem. We encountered no pickpockets, muggers or shady characters. We stayed out of the favelas, though.

Treesa, unfortunately we won't be staying that long so an apartment doesn't seem like a good way to go. We'll have one night in Rio the day we arrive in Brazil, then 4 days later we'll have two nights in Rio. That's the reason we're looking at hotels. But thanks for the info...I'll keep this in mind just in case we do an extended stay some time.

Has anyone stayed at the Relais & Chateaux Santa Teresa (Hotel Santa Teresa)?

Santa Teresa is a very dangerous place. Ask local residents..
The Hotel Santa Teresa lacks security and it has been assaulted last year:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-14192499

I would not stay there even if it was free.

Anywhere you are in Brazil, you are potentially vulnerable. A number of incidents that occur make it into the media to be sensationalized. Bad news sells. If this bothers you, you should seriously consider not traveling to Brazil at all. Of course, most tourists report that their trip was quite safe and untroubled.
Santa Teresa is inconveniently located (IMO) on top of a hill that right now has one of its major transportation options closed. For that reason, I would suggest spending a pleasant afternoon exploring this interesting neighborhood, but would stay, probably, by the beach.