We recently stayed at this hotel; one night before our trip to the Amazon and unfotunately 2 nights on our return. The hotel is very dated, badly in need of refubishment and is located in the heart of the local shopping district where stalls cram the pavements in front of the shops and its a difficult and crowded area to get around even on foot. First impressions were not good. The room we got smelt very musty and had 3 single beds despite requesting a double bed. The tiny window let in no light as the buildings were very close behind and the air conditioning was really noisy. We comforted ourselves with the thought that it was only one night. The WIFI in the although free was intermittant so in the end we went down to the very dated and grubby lobby for a slightly stronger signal.
Next morning we went for the 'buffet' breakfast at 9.00am (served until 10.00am). All the hot food was gone and hot trays were cold. There were only 2 rolls left and some slimey ham. However there was an abudance of cakes if you like that sort of thing. The breakfast was appalling and not anywhere near the standards of other Brazilian hotels. Whilst helping myself to one of the last rolls the kitchen staff came out into the restaurant and started helping themselves to the food and then sat down in the doorway between the kitchen and restaurant making it very obvious that they were not preparing any more food.
On our return 4 days later, my husband inspected 3 rooms before he found one that was adequate. This one was better in that it didn't smell musty and had a double bed.
On the bright side there was an extremely helpful porter who spoke very little English but was willing to try and help if he could. In fact he walked us to the local launderette 3 blocks away as he could not exlain the directions to us.
I would not go to this hotel again and if you are planning a trip to Manaus don't bother. The town is nothing to write home about and if you want an Amazon trip arrange for your tour company to collect and drop you at the airport sparing your the terrors of this hotel. One wonders why Best Western are no longer affiliated to this hotel!!!
- Best Western Manaus
- Manaus Best Western
