We are four ladies (no longer in the flush of youth) who stayed at Handy's home from home hotel,for three nights, in late January. We were a little perturbed at the surroundings of the hotel when we first arrived but upon entering this oasis, in what can only be described as a run down area, we felt at peace. We had a delayed flight and Handy was waiting for us on our arrival, even though it was probably long after his usual departure time. He was such a charming and hospitable host and looked after us from day one. We only wanted a "snack" after our long journey and he escorted us to the local restaurant, helped us with our choice of food and came back several times to make sure we were OK.
We agree that it is not safe to travel anywhere in the area other than by taxi, but Handy suggested places for us to visit, arranging a taxi to take us round all the sites worth visiting, suggested a night at a small theatre, which we found enchanting and even booked us into a restaurant, that he himself uses, for a lovely evening meal in superb surroundings.
Handy treated us as part of his family whilst we were there and we can only thank him for making our stay in Salvador a memorable one. Without his help and guidance it would have been an experience we would never want to repeat.
If we could have only one wish, it would be to transport this charming little hotel to a nicer location.
We would just like to say "Thank you Handy for being you"
One word of warning - watch the ATM machines in Salvador, all our cards were cloned and we lost all our money.

People should be warned about the location of this hotel. Far from being “situated in one of the most celebrated squares in the historic district” (as stated on the hotel website) it is approx 1km from the old town centre and in a very run-down area. Having asked advice from our local guide about the safety of walking back from the old town to the hotel, we were told it would be perfectly safe in daylight. However, halfway back to the hotel, in mid-afternoon, we were mugged by a group of 6 youths, who got away with a watch and video camera among other things. We both suffered some minor cuts and bruises and were pretty shaken up.

In the hotel, our room was small and not particularly attractive, with a very compact bathroom. The facilities provided were adequate but certainly not what we would consider “luxurious”. The staff were pleasant, but the owner, the only person we met there who spoke any English, was somewhat offhand towards us even after our ordeal. He gave us no warning of the dangers of walking near his hotel although, after the mugging, he did tell us that previously he had taken guests to the tourist police to report a similar incident.

We would advise against staying there.

I am a high maintance frequent traveler, so my standards are VERY high. This place is a jewel, each room has a theme, with wonderful little "touchs" that make a difference (the quality of the soap and lotion are equivalent to any 5 star US hotel), everytime I left my room, when I came back, the room had been refreshed. I attribute all of this primarily to the owner of the hotel - Handy Withers. The man never sleeps! He is always making sure that the guests are accompanied. Now, you can't really walk around the neighborhood -- the location is reflective of the real salvador (people well below the proverty line, some are clearly on drugs, dogs in the street,....) -- so if you don't want to have the "cultural experience" -- then this may not be the place for you. If you do, then this is the place to stay, if for no other reason to experience the charm of Handy and don't miss his omlettes.

A beautiful boutique hotel, with great attention to detail, comfortable, elegant and good breakfast. The room was beautifully decorated, very comfortable and spotlessly clean. The staff (although didn’t speak any English) were very smiley, friendly and very accommodating. A great breakfast was served under a large awning at the back of the hotel. The lounge area was bedecked with pictures of the owner (Handy) throughout his life, some fascinating books and curios. It really feels like you’re staying in someone’s house.

The only fault has to be the location. The hotel is positioned amongst semi-dilapidated buildings – the area is poor and at night you are strongly recommended to take a taxi to the historical centre because the route you can take during the day is too dangerous. During the day this route takes 5-10 minutes, and it’s closer to 15 mins in a cab. walk to the historical centre. But if you can live with that, then it’s well worth the visit.