Escape to Paradise: Sao Chico Eco Village Awaits!
Escape to Paradise: Sao Chico Eco Village Awaits! - A Messy, Honest, and Utterly Human Review
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from Sao Chico Eco Village, and let me tell you, it's a whole experience. Forget those sterile, perfectly-manicured hotel reviews – this is the real deal. We're talking dirt, delights, and maybe a few minor meltdowns (mostly mine, fueled by the sheer beauty of it all).
First Impressions: The Good, the Bad, and the Slightly Confusing
Right off the bat, let's talk accessibility. Now, I'm not in a wheelchair, but I always appreciate a place that thinks about it. They've got facilities for disabled guests, and an elevator, which is a huge plus. The exterior corridor made me feel like I was in an old movie, which was kinda cool. But, hey, I'm just a regular traveller, not an expert on accessibility so take this with a grain of salt.
The Tech Stuff: Wi-Fi, Internet, and the Modern World
Let's be real, in this day and age, Wi-Fi is practically oxygen. And Escape to Paradise delivers. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Praise the tech gods! I was able to upload embarrassing selfies of myself in a bathrobe (more on those later) with zero buffering. They also have Internet [LAN] which, frankly, I don't even know what that is anymore, but it's there! Plus, Wi-Fi in public areas, so you can Instagram your breakfast with reckless abandon. The Internet services were reliable, and I could even work from the laptop workspace in my room.
The "Things to Do" Rabbit Hole: Relaxation & Rejuvenation
Okay, hold onto your hats. This is where it gets intense. Sao Chico is serious about relaxation. They've got the whole shebang:
- Spa: I'm a sucker for a good spa, so the Spa/sauna was a must.
- Sauna: The sauna was amazing, and I spent a good hour sweating out all the stress of, well, life.
- Steamroom: The steamroom was a nice touch, and I could even see myself in the steam.
- Massage: Got a massage, and it was pure bliss. I almost fell asleep.
- Body scrub/Body wrap: The Body scrub was delightful, but the Body wrap was a little weird at first (being wrapped like a burrito), but I felt like a new person afterwards.
- Pool with view/Swimming pool [outdoor]: The Pool with view was stunning. Absolutely breathtaking. I spent hours just floating and staring at the scenery.
- Fitness center/Gym/fitness: They have a Fitness center, which I didn't use. I'm on vacation, people!
- Foot bath: I didn't get to try the Foot bath. Maybe next time.
Anecdote Alert: So, picture this: me, in a fluffy bathrobe (yes, they provide them), emerging from the sauna, feeling like a goddess. I then proceeded to accidentally walk into the pool with my phone. Luckily, it survived. Don't be me.
Cleanliness and Safety: Because, You Know, Life
Sao Chico takes hygiene seriously, which is a huge plus these days. They have Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Rooms sanitized between stays. They also have Professional-grade sanitizing services, and Hygiene certification. I felt safe and secure. They even have a Doctor/nurse on call.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fueling the Adventure
Alright, let's talk food. The restaurants were excellent. They offered a Breakfast [buffet] and Breakfast service, with a fantastic Asian breakfast option.
- Restaurants: The main restaurant was a treat.
- A la carte in restaurant: I had a A la carte meal there one night, and it was divine.
- Buffet in restaurant: The Buffet in restaurant was also good.
- Asian cuisine in restaurant: I loved the Asian cuisine in restaurant.
- Coffee/tea in restaurant: The Coffee/tea in restaurant were delicious.
- Desserts in restaurant: The Desserts in restaurant were amazing.
- International cuisine in restaurant: I tried the International cuisine in restaurant one night.
- Poolside bar: The Poolside bar was a perfect spot to relax.
- Snack bar: The Snack bar was also very tempting.
- Vegetarian restaurant: They have a Vegetarian restaurant.
- Western breakfast/Western cuisine in restaurant: The Western breakfast/Western cuisine in restaurant were very good.
- Bar: The Bar was also a great place to hang out.
- Happy hour: They have Happy hour! I took advantage of it.
- Poolside bar: Great for cocktails by the pool.
- Room service [24-hour]: Room service was available 24 hours, which is a lifesaver when you're fighting jet lag at 3 am.
- Bottle of water: They gave me a Bottle of water, which was very welcome.
- Breakfast in room: I got Breakfast in room one day, which was wonderful.
- Breakfast takeaway service: They also offer a Breakfast takeaway service.
- Coffee shop: I didn't get to the Coffee shop.
- Salad in restaurant: They have a Salad in restaurant.
- Soup in restaurant: They have a Soup in restaurant.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
They've thought of everything. Daily housekeeping, Laundry service, Dry cleaning, Concierge – you name it, they've got it. The Front desk [24-hour] was incredibly helpful.
- Cashless payment service: They have a Cashless payment service.
- Air conditioning in public area: The Air conditioning in public area was very much appreciated.
- Air conditioning: They have Air conditioning in all rooms.
- Business facilities: They have Business facilities.
- Cash withdrawal: They have Cash withdrawal.
- Contactless check-in/out: They offer Contactless check-in/out.
- Convenience store: They have a Convenience store.
- Currency exchange: They have Currency exchange.
- Doorman: They have a Doorman.
- Elevator: They have an Elevator.
- Facilities for disabled guests: They have Facilities for disabled guests.
- Food delivery: They offer Food delivery.
- Gift/souvenir shop: They have a Gift/souvenir shop.
- Indoor venue for special events: They have an Indoor venue for special events.
- Invoice provided: They provide an Invoice provided.
- Ironing service: They provide Ironing service.
- Laundry service: They provide Laundry service.
- Luggage storage: They have Luggage storage.
- Meeting/banquet facilities: They have Meeting/banquet facilities.
- Meetings: They host Meetings.
- Meeting stationery: They have Meeting stationery.
- On-site event hosting: They offer On-site event hosting.
- Outdoor venue for special events: They have an Outdoor venue for special events.
- Projector/LED display: They have a Projector/LED display.
- Safety deposit boxes: They offer Safety deposit boxes.
- Seminars: They host Seminars.
- Shrine: They have a Shrine.
- Smoking area: They have a Smoking area.
- Terrace: They have a Terrace.
- Wi-Fi for special events: They offer Wi-Fi for special events.
- Xerox/fax in business center: They have a Xerox/fax in business center.
- Car park [free of charge]: They have Car park [free of charge].
- Car park [on-site]: They have Car park [on-site].
- Car power charging station: They have a Car power charging station.
- Taxi service: They offer Taxi service.
- Valet parking: They offer Valet parking.
- Airport transfer: They offer Airport transfer.
- Bicycle parking: They offer Bicycle parking.
- Convenience store: They have a Convenience store.
- Currency exchange: They offer Currency exchange.
For the Kids (and the Young at Heart)
Sydney Harbour Views: Dream Studio Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to descend into the glorious, chaotic mess that was my trip to Pousada São Chico Eco Village in São Francisco de Paula, Brazil. Prepare for a schedule that's less "meticulously planned itinerary" and more "winging it with a side of existential dread (and hopefully, some cachaça)."
The São Chico Shuffle: A Mostly Unreliable Guide (with feelings)
Day 1: Arrival and Immediate Regret (Just Kidding…Maybe)
- Morning (ish): Arrive at Salgado Filho International Airport (POA) in Porto Alegre. The flight was fine, except for the screaming toddler who seemed to have a personal vendetta against my eardrums. Seriously, I think I aged a decade on that flight. Anyway, grabbed a taxi and started the scenic, slightly terrifying, drive to São Francisco de Paula. The scenery? Absolutely breathtaking. The driver? A speed demon with a death wish.
- Afternoon: Arrived at Pousada São Chico. Wow. Just…wow. The photos didn't do it justice. Lush, green, and the air smelled like…well, like nature. Like a hug from the earth. Immediately felt all the stress melt away. Except for the tiny, persistent worry that I'd accidentally booked a retreat for eco-warriors who only eat twigs and chant to the sun.
- Late Afternoon: Checked into my cabin. It was rustic, charming, and I immediately started questioning whether I'd brought enough bug spray. Also, the wifi was…spotty. Which, on the one hand, was a blessing. On the other hand, I needed to check my Instagram to make sure everyone was properly jealous.
- Evening: Dinner at the pousada's restaurant. The food was incredible. Like, seriously, I'm still dreaming about the grilled fish. And the wine! Oh, the wine. I may have overindulged. Let's just say I woke up the next morning with a slight headache and a newfound appreciation for Brazilian coffee.
Day 2: Hiking and Existential Contemplation (Mostly Contemplation)
- Morning: Attempted a hike. Emphasis on "attempted." The trails were beautiful, winding through forests and past waterfalls. However, my fitness level is, shall we say, "aspirational." I huffed and puffed my way up the hills, sweating like a pig, while a group of elderly Brazilians practically skipped past me. Humiliating. But the views? Worth it. The feeling of accomplishment? Also worth it, even if it was a small, fleeting triumph.
- Mid-day: Lunch. More delicious food. Seriously, I’m starting to suspect there's a secret chef back there who's secretly a food angel.
- Afternoon: Stumbled upon a hidden hammock near a babbling brook. Spent the afternoon reading, napping, and staring at the sky. This is where the existential contemplation began. I started questioning my life choices, my career, my ability to fold a fitted sheet. But mostly, I just felt…peaceful. Like, really peaceful. Almost unnervingly peaceful. I think I even saw a squirrel doing yoga.
- Evening: Fire pit! The pousada organized a bonfire, and it was magical. We roasted marshmallows, told stories (some true, some…embellished), and drank more wine. Met some amazing people. One woman, Maria, regaled us with tales of her travels and her life. I ended up chatting with her for hours, and she made me feel as if I had known her for years. The night ended with singing and laughter, and a whole lot of stars.
Day 3: The Horseback Riding Debacle (and a Revelation)
- Morning: Horseback riding. This was supposed to be a highlight. I pictured myself as a graceful equestrian, galloping through the fields. Reality? I was a terrified, wobbly mess clinging to the reins for dear life. My horse, bless his soul, seemed to understand my fear and went at a snail's pace. I managed to stay on, though, which is a small victory.
- Mid-day: After surviving the horse ride, I had a serious craving for something sweet. I found a small cafe in the town of São Francisco de Paula, and they had the most amazing brigadeiros. Tiny chocolate balls of heaven. I ate about a dozen. No regrets. (Okay, maybe a few, but mostly no regrets.)
- Afternoon: More exploring. Found a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking a valley. Sat there for a long time, just absorbing the beauty. It was here, while gazing at the vastness of the landscape, that I had a moment of clarity. A sudden, overwhelming realization that I needed to slow down. To breathe. To appreciate the small things. (And maybe learn how to ride a horse properly.)
- Evening: Final dinner at the pousada. The food was, of course, perfect. Said goodbye to the staff, who felt like family. Felt a pang of sadness at the thought of leaving, but also a sense of profound gratitude.
Day 4: Departure and the Lingering Echo of Peace (and Mosquito Bites)
- Morning: Checked out. The drive back to Porto Alegre was less terrifying this time. Maybe I was just used to it? Maybe the driver had eased up a bit? Who knows.
- Afternoon: Flight home. The screaming toddler was back. My eardrums were not thrilled.
- Evening: Back home. Back to reality. But something had changed. I felt…lighter. More centered. And, yes, I was covered in mosquito bites, but even those didn't bother me too much.
Final Thoughts:
São Chico Eco Village wasn't perfect. The wifi was unreliable. I almost fell off a horse. I ate way too many brigadeiros. But it was…perfectly imperfect. It was a reminder that sometimes, the best experiences are the messy, unplanned ones. It was a chance to disconnect and reconnect. To breathe. To laugh. To feel. And that, my friends, is something worth more than any perfectly planned itinerary. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go book another trip. Maybe this time, I'll finally learn to ride a horse. Or at least, not embarrass myself quite so much. Wish me luck!
Escape to Paradise: Unwind at Belvilla Serenity Resort, Bali
Escape to Paradise: Sao Chico Eco Village - The Honest Truth (and a Few Rambles)
So, is Sao Chico *really* paradise? Sounds a bit… much, doesn't it?
Look, let's be real. "Paradise" is a loaded word, right? It conjures up images of perfect beaches, no mosquitoes, and endless margaritas. Sao Chico? It's *close*. Think of it as "Paradise-Adjacent." Okay, maybe "Paradise-Lite." I mean, the setting IS stunning. Lush, green, the river… it's beautiful. But paradise also means… well, you're in the jungle. So, expect bugs. And humidity. And the occasional power outage that leaves you fumbling for a flashlight while simultaneously battling a rogue gecko. (True story, happened to me.)
But honestly? That's part of the charm. It's not some sterile, air-conditioned hotel. It's real. And that, in its own messy way, is pretty darn close to heaven.
Okay, bugs...how bad are we talking? Should I pack a hazmat suit?
Hazmat suit? Nah. But seriously, bring the good bug spray. The DEET kind. I’m talking, like, industrial strength. Because, yes, there are bugs. And they are persistent. Mosquitoes, of course. And these little gnats that seem to target your eyeballs specifically. I swear, I spent half my time swatting at my face. But then again, you're in the jungle! It's nature doing its thing. Just… be prepared. Think of it as a constant, low-level battle. You vs. the insect kingdom. (Spoiler alert: you probably won't win *every* round.) But the sunsets are worth the bites, I promise. Especially after a few caipirinhas.
The food. Tell me about the food. Is it all just… beans and rice?
Beans and rice? Okay, yeah, there's some of that. But don’t let that scare you! The food at Sao Chico is… well, it’s *real* food. Fresh, local, and mostly delicious. Lots of fresh fruit, which is amazing. The fish, when they have it, is incredible – caught right from the river. They cook everything with such care. One night, I swear, I had the best manioc I've ever tasted. And the *caipirinhas*… oh, the caipirinhas! Made with fresh limes and potent cachaca. Trust me, you'll be making friends with the bar staff very quickly. My only complaint? I wanted more. And maybe a constant supply of those tiny, crispy fried bananas. Heavenly.
What's the vibe like? Relaxed? Party-central? Should I pack a Hawaiian shirt or a hazmat suit? (Again, just checking.)
Relaxed. Definitely relaxed. Think "laid-back jungle vibes." It's not a place for raging all night. More like, "listen to the river, have a drink, and chat with the other guests" kind of relaxed. Hawaiian shirt? Absolutely. Hazmat suit? Still no. Unless you’re *really* worried about the bugs… but then you might be missing the point! There's a real sense of community. People are friendly, and everyone's there for the same thing: to escape. To disconnect. To maybe learn a little about themselves while they're at it. It’s the kind of place where you might find yourself having a deep conversation with a stranger about life, the universe, and the best way to peel a mango. (Pro tip: don't use a knife. Just… trust me on this.)
Are there activities? Or am I just… sitting around?
Both! You *can* just sit around, and that's perfectly acceptable. Sometimes, that's exactly what you need. But there are also activities. River trips are a must. Seriously, book one. The scenery is breathtaking. You might see monkeys! We did! (Okay, one. But still!) There are hikes, too. Some are easy, some are… less easy. I attempted a more challenging hike, and let me tell you, I was regretting my life choices about halfway up. The humidity was brutal, my legs were screaming, and I was convinced I’d seen a jaguar (it was probably just a particularly large lizard). But the view from the top? Worth it. Absolutely worth it. Even though I spent the next two days hobbling around.
What about the accommodation? Are we talking luxury villas?
Luxury villas? Not exactly. Think… charming eco-lodges. Rustic, comfortable, and integrated with the environment. My room was a little… basic, let's say. But it had a mosquito net (essential!), a comfy bed, and a view of the river that was absolutely priceless. And the sounds! The river, the birds… it was like a constant, natural soundtrack. The bathroom? Well, the shower pressure wasn't amazing, and the water wasn't always *super* hot. But honestly, after a day spent hiking or swimming, you're just grateful to be clean. It's not the Four Seasons, but it's got heart. And that’s what matters. Plus, who needs fancy when you're surrounded by beauty like that?
Tell me about the river! Is it safe to swim?
The river… oh, the river. It's the heart and soul of Sao Chico. It’s beautiful. It's mesmerizing. And yes, you can swim! They have designated swimming spots, and the water is generally clean and clear. (Though, you know, you're in the jungle, so keep your eyes peeled for… things. Like, I don't know, maybe a stray piranha? Just kidding! Mostly.)
But seriously, the river is amazing. I spent *hours* just floating in it, letting the current carry me. It's incredibly relaxing. One day, I decided to be brave and swim further out. And I saw… a caiman! (Okay, a small one. But still!) My heart leaped into my throat. I paddled back to shore faster than I've ever paddled in my life. But even that was kind of… cool. It was a reminder that you're truly *in* nature. And that, for me, is what makes Sao Chico so special. It's not just a vacation. It's an experience. A slightly imperfect, bug-filled, caiman-adjacent experience. And I wouldn't trade it for anything. Well, maybe a margarita. And a bug-free zone. But still… mostly nothing.
