Continental Porto Alegre by Samba

This hotel, while showing signs of its historic charm, is frequently noted for its rooftop pool and its view, offering a pleasant escape despite occasional maintenance issues. It caters well to budget-conscious travelers and those prioritizing convenience for transit, given its direct proximity to the bus station. However, many guests report that the hotel is significantly older than depicted in online photos, with pervasive issues related to its age and upkeep. While the breakfast generally receives praise, the overall experience is often marred by concerns about cleanliness and room condition. To ensure a more comfortable stay, guests are advised to confirm their room's condition and Wi-Fi functionality upon arrival, and to be mindful of the surrounding neighborhood, especially at night.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's Wi-Fi connectivity is a significant and recurring concern, with many guests reporting it to be unreliable or completely non-functional within the rooms, often requiring them to use common areas for internet access. The rooftop pool, while offering a beautiful view, is frequently mentioned as being closed for events or due to maintenance, and some guests noted it could be cleaner. The fitness center is often reported as being closed or in disrepair. Rooms typically lack a functional minibar or frigobar, and the air conditioning units are frequently described as old, noisy, and inefficient, sometimes even leaking. Guests also note a general scarcity of modern power outlets in the rooms, and the elevators can be slow or out of service, leading to delays.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Cleanliness is a major point of contention for many guests, with numerous reports of dirty rooms, stained or torn linens, and a pervasive moldy smell, particularly in rooms with carpeting. Guests frequently find dust, cobwebs, and general grime, indicating superficial cleaning. The bathrooms are often described as small, old, and poorly maintained, featuring curtains instead of glass doors, which leads to wet floors. Mold is a common complaint in the bathrooms, along with broken fixtures and inadequate lighting. Beds are often reported as uncomfortable, sometimes consisting of two single mattresses pushed together. Noise from the air conditioning units and from adjacent rooms or the street is also a frequent issue, impacting sleep quality.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast at the hotel generally receives positive feedback, with many guests praising its variety and quality, often highlighting fresh options. However, some guests found the selection to be simple or noted issues like artificial-tasting juices or the presence of flies. The staff working in the breakfast area are frequently commended for their attentiveness and professionalism. The hotel's restaurant offers dining options, though some guests found the menu to be limited and the prices to be on the higher side. Despite this, the quality of the food served in the restaurant is often described as acceptable, and the service provided by the restaurant staff is typically well-regarded.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a primary draw for many guests, as it is situated directly opposite the bus station, offering unparalleled convenience for travelers arriving or departing by bus. This proximity also provides easy access to various local amenities and public transport options. However, the immediate surrounding neighborhood is a significant concern for many, frequently described as unsafe, particularly at night, with mentions of drug users in the vicinity. While parking is available, it is a paid service, and guests often report that the garage is located in a separate building with difficult access, requiring them to navigate outside the hotel to reach their vehicles.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding the staff and service is notably mixed. Many guests commend the friendly staff, highlighting their helpfulness and attentiveness, particularly those working in the dining areas. However, a significant number of reviews describe certain reception staff as rude, apathetic, or unprofessional, leading to negative interactions. The check-in and check-out processes are frequently reported as slow, disorganized, and prone to errors, including issues with reservations. Housekeeping services are inconsistent, with some guests experiencing missed room cleanings or slow responses to requests for amenities like towels. Maintenance issues are also noted, with staff sometimes slow to address problems within the rooms.

Additional Information
A predominant theme across reviews is the hotel's advanced age and urgent need for extensive renovation. Many guests feel that the online images do not accurately reflect the current state of the property, which is described as very old and poorly maintained. The television sets in the rooms are typically outdated, lacking smart features or a wide range of channels. Guests also frequently report issues with the hot water supply in the sink faucets, even if the shower works. The hotel's recovery from recent floods is also mentioned, with some areas still showing signs of damage or contributing to the pervasive moldy smell. Guests should be aware that the parking fee is an additional charge not included in the room rate.