I visited Rio back in April 2007, it should not have taken me that long to write a review about this great hostel. I did a lot of research on the internet before my trip, this hostel was ranked among the best and I do not regret my choice to stay here.

The hostel has an excellent staff of 20-somethings that speak excellent English and are very helpful to give suggestions on sites of interest, restaurants, bars, etc. The hostel also operates a few of their own tours, while this is more expensive than average prices it is worth it. I went on a trip to Christ the Redeemer, a Brazilian soccer match, and hang gliding. All tours leave from the hostel and usually one of the hostel workers goes along with you (except for hang gliding). The convenience factor and safety of doing tours through the hostel are unbeatable.

At night, there is plenty of entertainment provided by the hostel. On certain days they organize a group barbecue on their roof deck, other nights they will make suggestions on bars to go to at night and organize transportation if large groups go together. During my stay almost everyone at the hostel went out in a large group together to various bars.

I stayed in an 8 man mixed dorm, I recommend this accommodation or anything smaller (I believe they have 12-16 man dorms too but they are too noisy). The room had a balcony and an AC unit (ok, but not too effective). The room also had two bathrooms with showers. The one thing to note is that there is no shower curtain, the bathroom IS the shower - a little strange at first but not a big deal with sandals on. The bunk beads also have large lockers attached to them - big enough to fit a large travel backpack/small suitcase (bring your own padlock).

The hostel is located a few blocks from the eastern half of Copacabana beach. During daylight you will be safe to walk wherever you want. At night it is best to take a taxi. Also, at night NEVER go out on the beach (it is an excellent way to get mugged if you do). Rio is not the safest of cities, but you can get around without any problem if you use some common sense and street smarts (the same as you would in any large city). As long as you are careful and attentive you will have a great vacation - don't hesitate to book this hostel if you are looking for budget accommodation.