Escape to Paradise: Canto do Curio's Unforgettable Paraty Getaway
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into Escape to Paradise: Canto do Curio's Unforgettable Paraty Getaway! (And yes, I'm already starting to feel like I need my own escape after trying to navigate this monster of a review request.) This isn’t your sterile, corporate brochure, this is the unfiltered, slightly chaotic tale of Canto do Curio, warts and all. Let’s get messy, shall we?
First Impressions (and a few near-disasters): Accessibility, Accessibility, Accessibility… and the Great Elevator Debacle.
Okay, fine, let's start with the boring bits, but hey, vital for some. Accessibility is… present. The hotel says it offers Facilities for disabled guests. But here’s where things get… interesting. I had a friend, bless her adventurous soul, who uses a wheelchair, and let's just say the "accessible" label was a bit generous at times. The elevator did its best, bless its heart, but sometimes felt like it was deciding whether to cooperate by a coin flip. And the ramps? Well, let's just say they had a "rustic" charm, demanding a good push (or a Herculean effort from a loved one!). So, wheelchair accessibility? Check with them before you book. Seriously. Call them. Ask specific questions. Don't take their word for it, poke and prod!
Then you get to on-site accessible restaurants/lounges, and well, it's the same deal. Some areas were a breeze, others required a bit of creative maneuvering. But I must emphasize, call them, they need to communicate better so avoid surprises.
Internet - The Digital Struggle is Real (and the Wi-Fi Gods Laugh):
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Hooray! Except… well, remember dial-up? Multiply that feeling by about ten. The internet went down more often than my self-esteem after a bad joke. Internet [LAN]? Forget about it. Unless you’re packing a time machine and a desire to relive the glory days of wired connections, you're out of luck. Internet services itself was a mixed bag. The Wi-Fi in public areas was marginally better, but still… plan on embracing the digital detox, unless you have super patience.
Things to Do (and Ways to Actually RELAX - My Kingdom for a Massage!):
Okay, now we're talking! This is where Canto do Curio shines. Let's be real, you're not going to Paraty to pound out emails. You’re going for a slice of heaven. And, Canto do Curio helps you get there.
Ways to relax: This is their bread and butter. You can spend hours in the Spa/sauna. I'm a sucker for a good Sauna (and a decent cry, don't judge!). The Spa itself is just pure bliss. I went so often, they started calling me "the regular." Pure indulgence, trust me! The Body scrub, the Body wrap… it's pure pampering. And then the Massage. Oh, the Massage. I booked two back-to-back one day. Don't judge me. The Pool with view, is just perfect and when I did, my shoulders went from tight knots to melted butter.
Swimming pool: Heaven on earth. The Swimming pool [outdoor], is fantastic and I spent much time there. It was the most relaxing thing in the world, I loved it.
Fitness center: It's there. It's functional. It’ll do the job if you're feeling guilty about all the caipirinhas.
Gym/fitness: See above.
Foot bath: I had one of these and it was so good!
Steamroom: It's there. It's steamy. What more do you need to know?
Additional Experiences: The property is in a peaceful setting, and you can use the terrace to admire the gorgeous scenery.
Cleanliness and Safety (and My Quest for Peace of Mind):
This is important, especially these days. Canto do Curio takes this seriously. They have Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and professional-grade sanitizing services. Plus, they offer Room sanitization opt-out available! I saw staff constantly cleaning like cleaning fanatics, and that gave me peace of mind. Hygiene certification? Check. Hand sanitizer everywhere? Check. They have Staff trained in safety protocol, and the Safe dining setup, gave me confidence. They even removed Shared stationery removed!
- First aid kit is available, as a good hotel should.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (Oh, the FOOD!):
This is where things got truly exciting. And I'm not even a "foodie" (I’m more of a "feed-me-now-ie").
- Restaurants: The property has Restaurants. Don't miss the Buffet in restaurant, it's one of the best parts of the experience.
- Breakfast: You can opt for Breakfast in room, or go Breakfast [buffet], which is great. Breakfast service is well-done.
- Lunch/Dinner: You can enjoy A la carte in restaurant, and the food is delicious. Try Asian cuisine in restaurant and International cuisine in restaurant.
- Drinks/Snacks: There's a really great Poolside bar. The Bar is very fun. And if you get hungry, there's a Snack bar. You can take a Bottle of water, and there's Coffee/tea in restaurant. They offer Coffee shop.
- Alternative meal arrangement: They will try to help accomodate any request.
Okay, so the food. The food was outstanding. Delicious. I think I gained five pounds, but honestly, it was worth it. The Western cuisine in restaurant was incredible, and you must try the Soup in restaurant. I'm not usually a soup person, but their soup? Chef's kiss. The Vegetarian restaurant is lovely, and they have great Desserts in restaurant. They have Room service [24-hour] so you can eat in bed all day (I may or may not have taken advantage of that). If you're feeling bougie, try the Salad in restaurant. They even have Happy hour.
Services and Conveniences (Because Sometimes You Need a Little Help):
Canto do Curio offers a solid range of services, nothing mind-blowing, but they’re reliable. Daily housekeeping? Check. Concierge? Super helpful, especially with navigating Paraty. Cash withdrawal if you need it. Laundry service is good. Luggage storage is super convenient.
Air conditioning in public area is good.
Doorman and Elevator (when it’s working).
Facilities for disabled guests – Again, call and inquire!
Outdoor venue for special events.
For the Kids (Bless Their Little Hearts):
They have Family/child friendly. They do have Babysitting service.
- They have Kids meal.
- They have Kids facilities.
In-Room Goodies (The Little Things That Make a Difference):
Okay, the rooms. They get the job done. They're not super luxurious, but they're clean and comfortable.
They have Air conditioning, which is essential.
Complimentary tea, are a nice touch.
Free bottled water. Always a win.
Wi-Fi [free] (when it’s working, see above).
Bathrobes, Slippers. Treat yourself!
Blackout curtains, because sleep is important, even on vacation.
Smoke detector and Safety/security feature keep your mind at ease.
Wake-up service.
Getting Around (Because Paraty is Pretty, But Not Exactly Walkable):
They have Car park [free of charge].
They have Airport transfer.
Taxi service.
The Verdict: Is Canto do Curio Worth the Escape?
Absolutely. Despite the internet hiccups (and the occasional elevator drama), Canto do Curio delivers on the promise of paradise. It’s a place to truly unwind, to soak up the beauty of Paraty, and to let the world melt away. Will it be perfect? No. But sometimes, it's the imperfections that make a place truly memorable. Just remember: Call ahead about accessibility!
The Big Pitch: Your Escape to Unforgettable Paraty Awaits!
Tired of the grind? Yearning for an escape that’s equal parts relaxation and adventure? Then ditch the ordinary and treat yourself to Escape to Paradise: Canto do Curio's Unforgettable Paraty Getaway!
Here's why
Lanzarote Paradise Found: Tabaiba Apartamentos Await!
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because this itinerary for Pousada Canto do Curio in Paraty, Brazil, is gonna be less "polished travel brochure" and more "scribbled-on napkin found at the bottom of a backpack." Prepare for turbulence.
PARATY: A Love/Hate Story (Mostly Love, Don't Tell Anyone)
Day 1: Arrival and the Literal Walls of Paraty
- Morning (6:00 AM): Wake up in a blur of pre-dawn anxiety. That flight to Rio? Delayed, naturally. Spent an hour doing that weird airport wall hugging with the only outlet I could find, praying I wouldn't lose my phone's precious battery. Finally, finally, we take off. My pre-trip excitement is now a crusty layer of jet-lag and despair.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM): Touchdown in Rio! Okay, so, the drive to Paraty. Gorgeous, yes. But two things: 1) the driver, a man named Antonio, kept trying to make conversation with the "very beautiful" (his words) woman I was travelling with, and 2) Those winding roads? They're designed to test your stomach's limits. I swear, I saw my lunch again. Thank God for the little plastic bag I’d packed.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM): Arrive at Pousada Canto do Curio. It's… adorable. Think cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and bougainvillea EVERYWHERE. My room? Quaint, to say the least. Tiny balcony? Yes, but also a view of the neighbor's laundry. Bonus: Air conditioning! It saved me.
- Evening (6:00 PM): Wander into the Centro Histórico (Old Town). Okay, WHOA. This place is magical. Like, genuinely magical. The architecture is unbelievable, the cobblestones are murder on my ankles (wear sensible shoes, people! Seriously.), the whole vibe is just… charming. Had to stop every 20 minutes to actually feel it.
- Evening (8:00 PM): Dinner at Restaurant Margarida Cafe (I think, it's all a hazy memory of joy). Ordered the moqueca (fish stew). Best. Thing. Ever. Felt my stomach finally agree to stay put. We also tried the caipirinhas and, oh boy, were they strong! Which, let's be honest, was exactly what I needed after that flight and the nausea-inducing drive.
Day 2: Boats, Beaches, and a Lesson in Humility (and Sunburn)
- Morning (9:00 AM): Boat tour! This was the reason I came to Paraty. Picture this: clear turquoise water, lush green islands, and the promise of snorkeling. The reality? Spectacular. The boat captain, a gruff but lovable old sea dog named Fernando, took us to several beautiful beaches.
- Later Morning (11:00 AM): Snorkeling! This is where the lesson in humility comes in. I, in my infinite wisdom, decided to go without sunscreen. The result? I'm now a lobster. At least I saw the fish! Worth it? Maybe. (The itching is definitely not).
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Lunch on the boat. Okay, this was a low point, not going to lie. I don’t know if I am allergic to something in the food, or if it was the sea air, but I had to run to the back of the boat and throw up again. (Insert embarrassed face emoji. I really should have listened to that “wear more sunscreen” advice).
- Afternoon (3:00 PM): Back to Paraty. Needed to find some aloe vera, stat. The streets were so crowded! It was like a festival of tourists! I was so grateful to have my home at Pousada Canto do Curio.
- Late Afternoon (5:00 PM): Attempt to relax at the pousada. Failed miserably. The sunburn was relentless. Started to question every life choice that led me to this point.
- Evening (7:00 PM): Dinner at a random restaurant off from the main square (forgot the name - sorry!). Had pizza, and for the first time today, I didn’t completely hate myself. Also, the caipirinhas were again a saving grace.
Day 3: Hidden Waterfalls and the Joy of Doing Nothing (Mostly)
- Morning (9:00 AM): Determined to ditch the crowds. Hired a taxi and headed to a nearby waterfall. The hike to the falls was… challenging. Think steep inclines, slippery rocks, and the distinct feeling that you might break an ankle. Worth it? Absolutely! The waterfall was stunning, and the cool water was a balm to my aching, sunburnt body.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Lunch at a local restaurant near the waterfall (I need to start writing down the names of these places, don’t I?). Tried feijoada (black bean stew). Heavy, but delicious. And the local beer? Perfect.
- Late Afternoon (3:00 PM): RELAXATION! Back at the pousada. Sat on my tiny balcony, read a book, and let the sounds of Paraty wash over me. Pure bliss. Okay, except for the occasional yelp of pain from my sunburn.
- Evening (7:00 PM): Dinner at Restaurante Banana da Terra, a fancier place. Splurged. Had the best seafood pasta of my life. And the atmosphere? Perfect. Felt a pang of sadness knowing I had to leave soon.
Day 4: Goodbye, Paraty (and the Never-Ending Journey Home)
- Morning (9:00 AM): A final, lingering walk through the Centro Histórico. Bought some souvenirs (a ridiculous hat, a couple of paintings, and a keychain that says “Saudades”). Said goodbye to the bougainvillea, the cobblestones, and the feeling of being utterly, completely, and wonderfully LOST in a magical place.
- Late Morning (11:00 AM): Checked out of Pousada Canto do Curio. Said a fond farewell. The staff was amazing, and I was sorry to leave.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): The dreaded journey back to Rio. Praying the roads were a little less challenging this time.
- Late Afternoon (6:00 PM): The flight home. Successfully made it. Sunburnt, slightly seasick, and exhausted, but with a heart full of memories. Would I go back? In a heartbeat – even if I have to spend a week recovering from my sunburn. Paraty, you magnificent, messy, and utterly addictive place, I’ll be back. You bet I will.
Escape to Paradise: Canto do Curio's Unforgettable Paraty Getaway: FAQ (Because Let's Be Real, You're Curious)
Okay, spill. Is Paraty REALLY as magical as it looks in those Instagram photos?
Tell me about *Canto do Curio*. Is it actually as good as all the gushing reviews?
What's the best way to get to Paraty? I hate traveling.
- Plane to Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo: Then, you can take a bus, hire a private car or a transfer. This is the fastest and most convenient way, but it's not necessarily the cheapest.
- Bus from Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo: This is generally the most affordable option, but it can take a while. Bring snacks, movies, and a good book if you're prone to travel ennui, like me.
- Driving: This gives you the most flexibility, but the roads can be a bit winding, particularly the coastal highway. The views, however, are amazing. Just don't get carsick! Trust me, I learned that the hard way on my first attempt.
Are there any downsides to staying at Canto do Curio? (Be honest!)
- Noise: Paraty's historical center comes to life at night. So you may hear some late-night chatter from the street. But the windows are well-sealed, so it wasn't a problem for me.
- Limited Elevator: If you have mobility issues, be sure to request a ground-floor room. The hotel has a historic style, so do consider that factor.
- Price: It's not the cheapest place in town. But considering the location, service, and overall experience, it's worth every penny.
What's the best time of year to visit Paraty?
- Dry Season (April - September): This is the most popular time, with sunshine and fewer rains. But it's also high season, meaning more crowds and higher prices.
- Shoulder Seasons (March, October & November): These months offer a good balance of decent weather, fewer crowds, and potentially lower prices. This is the time I went, and it was perfect.
- Rainy Season (December - February): Expect more rain, but you'll also find fewer tourists. Just pack an umbrella and embrace the tropical vibes!
Speaking of vibes, what should I pack for Paraty?
- Light, breathable clothes: Think cotton, linen, and anything that will dry quickly. It's humid. Very humid.
- Swimsuit(s): You'll be spending plenty of time in the water. I took two and still felt like I wished I had another!
- Comfy shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking on those cobblestone streets. Leave the stilettos at home, unless you want to be falling every three seconds.
- Bug spray: Mosquitoes are not your friends, and they *love* tourists.
- Sunscreen: The sun is intense. Apply liberally and regularly.
- A good book or two: Perfect for lounging on the beach or in a hammock.
- Adaptor: Brazil uses different plugs. Don't get caught without one!
- A sense of adventure: Because you'll need it!
What are the must-do activities in Paraty?
- Boat trip to the islands: This is a must. You'll swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel, and soak up the sun. Prepare to be amazed by the beauty. If possible, try to make a boat trip to the nearby islands!
- Explore the historic center: Wander the cobblestone streets, admire the colorfulUptown LodgingPousada Canto do Curio Paraty Paraty Brazil
Pousada Canto do Curio Paraty Paraty Brazil
