Whats the Puerto?

Puerto Iguazu is the Argentinan answer to Foz do Iguaçu, although slightly smaller. Again, the main attraction here is obviously the falls but don't let this distract you from the other little gems around the place. 

Argentinian Side of the Iguazu Falls 

 Unfortunately, the weather was not as glorious as when we visited the Brazilian side. Nevertheless, we still really enjoyed ourselves. You can do the falls by yourself through public transport and enter the park without a guide which is ultimately cheaper. However, bus times can be shaky, crossing the border times significantly longer and the guide can be helpful so it really is a personal choice. 

We had the transfer included in the pass we have but if you wanted to organise the trip, often hostels on both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides can help. Crossing the border took altogether about 15 minutes. This will take longer if you decide to do the transfer via public bus. It is important to check whether you need to pay for a visa etc to enter Argentina/Brazil as this will need to be paid for before and shown as you enter the country. It is essential you get your passport stamped regardless, as you need it to fly and to cross the border generally. 

Once you arrive at the falls, entrance is AR$215, which must be paid in cash. We were quite unlucky as the Devils throat bridge is under repair due to recent storms and the Isla San Martin closed due to weather conditions. So we explored the upper and lower trails which really are spectacular, the waterfalls really are amazing-and there are so many of them! We also did an additional boat ride which cost AR$80, where you actually get to see the waterfalls up close and personal. Prepare to get soaked. Your belongings are kept safe and dry in water lock bags on the boat, so don't worry about cameras etc. have this money in cash elmo, as we found out the card machine provided is awful. 

*QUICK TIP* do not do the boat journey on the Brazilian side because it is twice as expensive and you see half as much.

What to wear? 

Comfortable shoes are a must, even more so than the Brazilian side especially if you plan on doing the boat trip as you have to walk through rocky terraine to get to the boat. A rain mac is a necessary, a change of clothes would go down a treat and swimwear is a must. Be smart, look at the weather and evaluate what to wear and bring. If you don't, you risk ruining your day. 

*QUICK TIP* Bring your own lunch, food here is over priced and not that nice!

Brazilian or Argentinian Side to the Falls? 

This is difficult, if you are pushed for time, I would say to do the Argentinan side only because you do see so much more of the waterfalls and so much closer. Plus, the Argentinian side has the better boat ride. However, I think both sides are worth a visit, especially because you can get better panaramic photos of the Brazilian side.

Hito Tres Fronteras

This famous landmark shows the three points in which Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay meet using the three points in the countries colours. It doesn't take long at all and it is a really nice point to see. There is also a little market if you fancied picking up some trinkets. 

Orquidiario 

This is a less well known attraction of Puerto Iguazu. Simply, it is an orchid garden. It takes a little bit further to get from but it is free and inside it is free. It is run by a mother and daughter who were really helpful, from getting rid of a stray dog that had decided to follow us, to advising us in what attractions are best to see in Puerto Iguazu. Although, only a few orchids were actually in bloom it is a nice way to spend part of your afternoon. 

El Arbol Real 

This place is a little cafe, across the road from the bus terminal. It sells a variety of pastries including empanadas, a range of cakes and chocolate,sweets etc. We tried the empanadas and they are packed with flavour and cost less than a pound, closer to 50p. We also picked up a lot of cake, I was in my element, the jam tart is especially nice. The only negative point is that if you sit outside you will be approached by beggars and stray dogs. 

We also got given a free sweet- dolce de leche flavour of course!

Jardin Los Picaflores

I saw this on Trip Advisor and thought it was worth checking out. Ultimately, it is a garden that humming birds flock to. Although, being open for 30 years, many have never heard of it. It costs next to nothing (AR$30), and is great if you have some spare time in the afternoon. It is like being in someone's garden but it is very tranquil. There are dozens of humming birds-fascinating creatures. If you are in to bird watching and nature, this is a must stop on your list of destinations. My camera unfortunately, does not capture the beauty of these birds. 

Maria Preta 

I don't even know where to start with Maria Preta...

After looking on lonely planet and trip advisor, Maria Preta really stood out with rave reviewsabout the outstanding food but warnings about the service. We decided to take a chance...our first mistake. 

On arrival to the restaurant, we were told we would have to wait ten minutes for a table. We could see the restaurant was busy, so this was not an issue. However, you would think we would be invited to wait by the bar or at least inside...WRONG! We had to wait outside on the street, looking like spare parts. After ten minutes, we approached the waiter who had asked us to wait to see how long it would be till our table was ready. We could see empty tables so assumed we would be sat shortly. They informed us that although they had tables, they could not serve us for a further ten minutes as the kitchen was so busy. At this point we just wanted to sit so we persuaded them to allow us to do so. I know what you are thinking, this just sounds like excuse after excuse! 

Despite stating we would not be served our drinks orders were taken. At this point our waiter seemed a little bit clueless I won't lie but as we had been told service wasn't always the best we turned a blind eye to this. We also ignored the fact that our drinks took so long to come. HOWEVER, what could not be ignored was the events to follow. I am unsure now whether our waiter messed up our order or whether the kitchen had a monumental nightmare but we were then left waiting over an hour and a half for our food to arrive. We asked a different waiter to the one that had served us where our food was. He went and found our waiter and asked him but said nothing more to us. The more and more time passed the more annoyed I became. When no one got back to us, we had to go and speak to our waiter who informed us 'it was coming'. It was at this point that I realised that our waiter was the worst waiter I had ever come across. He then talked to other members of staff about the situation but ignored and failed to tell us anything. When the food FINALLY arrived, I was drunk due to the lack of food, starving and angry. It was Maria Preta's saving grace that the ribs I had ordered were cooked to perfection and wine was of very good quality. I have nothing positive to say apart from about the food and drink. 

You would hope that was where the atrocious service ended...oh how very wrong you are. Our waiter then avoided us for the rest of the meal. No joke. The other waiter had to serve us and somebody else brought us our bill. We had a discount put on and we refused to pay the service charge. 

I would only recommend you coming here if: 

- You have no plans for after dinner 

- You don't plan on being hungry in the imminent or to be honest distant future 

- If you like being ignored 

If you do decide to come and your waiter is a middle aged waiter- leave. The food is not worth his pathetic excuse for service.

Cruceros de Iguazu 

This excursion was recommended on Lonely Planet. It includes a boat tour down the river Paraná and Iguazú. You get to see the tres Fronteras from the water as the sun sets. Perfect way to spend the early evening. I would recommend trying the mojitos! Food wise, I would save yourself until after the boat because there isn't a great variety and nothing really worth purchasing. They do give you vouchers for local restaurants in the area so all is not lost. You are also treated to a live music show, you will be asked to join in and it will be slightly awkward when you don't know the words because it's in Portugese or Spanish. Nevertheless, I had a lot of fun and would recommend it! 

Te Amaré Matana 

This restaurant is one of the discounts you receive on the boat trip. It is in the centre of town and offers great food, live music and excellent service. Although on the pricier side, I would say it's definitely worth it. I had the steak in a red wine sauce and it was divine- possibly the best meal I have had in South America. A totally different experience to Maria Preta! It is surprising this restaurant isn't more widely featured on tourism sites.

Dharma 

One of the many bars on the Main Street of Puerto Iguazú. Often referred to as restobars are in abundance on the Main Street of Puerto Iguazu. Drinks are reasonably priced, good music and attentive service. 

Puerto Iguazu Hostel Review

GARDENSTONE HOSTEL

We were recommended this hostel by a group of travellers we met in Paraty so thought we would give it a go.

Facilities 

Gardenstone Hostel has what can only be described as a jungle in its back garden. There is a managary of flowers and trees, which makes it quite unique from other hostels we have stayed in. There is a pool, although only filtered once a day so leaves from the jungle do clutter it slightly. It is still nice to relax around after a long day. Or if that does not take your fancy, give the hammocks a go. There is an outside kitchen which you are free to use at any time. On some reviews on Hostelworld, there were complaints of the hostel cats jumping up in surfaces etc but in the time we stayed here, we did not experience this. There is no printer here, however if you go across the street to the hotel you can print a sheet out for AR$10. 

On hostelworld, it states that the hostel has a 24 hour reception. However, one night we found ourselves locked out of the hostel. Thus, resulting in us having to scale the gate to get to our dorm. Not ideal, especially after a few wines. So I would just advise that when you leave the hostel you double check when it will be open till.

The wifi here is sometimes great and sometimes awful. It really does dip in and out. Plus, whilst we were there, there were two power cuts although this lasted for ten minutes maximum. 

Breakfast 

Breakfast was good although lacking the fruit I had become accustomed to in Brazil, with only oranges being offered. There was also a selection of breads, cake, spreads and cornflakes but most importantly scrambled egg! I warn you to get there early if you want eggs or cake as it goes quite quickly. 

Showers/Toilets 

The ensuite we had was okay. It was cleaned daily but due to the air freshener used, it never quite smelt right. The bathroom itself is in need of a refurb and the shower would often run cold. We realised that this was because whilst on the shower would trip its main switch. Probably not the safest shower but it did the job. 

Staff 

The staff are great here. The older man who runs the hostel is probably the best thing about the place. He is kind, helpful and an attentive host. Nothing is too much for him, whether this be directions, recommendations or help within the hostel. 

Value for Money 

We paid just under £10 per night here. For what were provided it was not necessarily worth that much. The place definitely needs a bit of a spruce!

Dorms 

The room were nice, although not overly big, like the bathrooms, could do with a refurb. The beds were comfortable although pack bug spray because you are going to need it. There were plugs dotted around although not as many as was needed. Lockers are provided, not large enough to fit your back pack in but a reasonable size nonetheless. 

The dorms are cleaned I want to say every other day, all I know was that it happened more than once over our stay but not daily.

Location 

The hostel was a five minute walk from the bus station and not far from the Argentinian side of her falls. There is a bank and supermarket close by and restaurants and bars in walking distance. In all honesty, you will not need to use public transport here unless going to and from the falls or travelling away from the town. 

OVERALL

I want to give the hostel a glowing review however I would say there is probably nicer hostels than Gardenstone. Despite enjoying my time here, I cannot ignore that the hostel just needs a bit of tlc. 

Imogen xoxo

Falling for Foz

The Brazilian Side of the Iguassu Falls 

Although, many would say that the Argentinian side of the falls is more spectacular, I really enjoyed my trip to the Brazilian side. It is really easy to get to via public transport although I would try and avoid using the bus between 3 till about 5 because they are packed! Price wise, the basic trip to the falls costs $R52, however if you are Brazilian or a Foz do Iguaçu resident you get a considerable discount so take your ID cards etc if you have them.  

The trip itself, starts with a bus ride up to where the walk begins with stops along the way for boat rides and longer, more intense trails. The instructions are in both Portugese and English, so hopefully you don't miss a thing. As you arrive, bask in the beauty of this National Park, the greenery and the wild life are truly amazing, not to mention the back drop of the beautiful falls. 

The trail takes you along different view points of the falls, before you get to the Devils Throat. Here is the time to whip out the waterproofs and pack all your valuables away. If it is a sunny day, the spray is so refreshing aswell, take advantage of nature's cool down! 

What to Wear?

I would advise wearing comfortable shoes as there is a bit of walking involved. Just to clarify, by comfortable I don't necessarily mean hiking boots, rather boots in general or trainers, I personally wouldn't advise flip flops/sandals. I would recommend wearing light clothing that will dry quickly and swimwear. You must bring a light weight waterproof jacket, if you are planning to go down to the Devils Throat or if not pick up a rain Mac whilst you are there- get ready for a wet afternoon! 

What to Bring? 

If you are going to bring cameras, phones, tablets etc. I would advise bringing sandwich bags to seal them up in before wrapping them in a towel/cardigan. It may seem pedantic but you don't want to lose your photos from your trip because you weren't careful. Also, to get some photos as the Devils Throat, pick up a disposable camera! I would also advise you to bring your own lunch because the lunch available is pricey and there is not a large variety. Watch out for the pesky animals that will try and eat alongside you, staff are there to hurry them away but just don't encourage/feed them. Last but not least, bring plenty of water! 

Churrascaria Premium 

After being recommended this place at our hostel we thought we would check it out. I have been to a churrascaria before whilst being at uni- for anyone in Leeds I am talking about Fazenda! So I knew I was in for a treat.

They offer a free shuttle service from your hostel so you don't even have to consider walking or grabbing a taxi. We were welcomed warmly and began our meal. My word of advice is to stay clear of the carbs, not because they aren't nice but because you are wasting valuable stomach space. 

After picking up your initial side dishes, the meat begins. There is such a wide range of meats from beef to lamb to pork and more all done in different ways with different sauces. One addition I really enjoyed was barbecued pineapple, together with the meat it was the perfect sweet to savoury combination. Although amazing, prepare to feel beaten by the meat because you will be faced with the largest food coma known to man. It's all worth it though! 

Coming out at $R55 per head, this place is a steal and a must whilst in Foz do Iguaçu. 

Love Imogen xoxo

Foz Do Iguaçu Hostel Review

CONCEPT DESIGN HOSTEL

We chose this hostel because it had 95% of reviews on Hostelworld...something we had never come across before. Furthermore, we knew the days that we would be spending in Foz do Iguaçu would be hot but with no beach in sight it was imperative that we had a pool.

Facilities 

Concept Design Hostel is one of the nicest hostels that I have stayed in during both our trips. The furnishings are modern and colourful, yet still chic. There is a lounge area to chill in with a tv and sofas, perfect for rainy days. Outside, there is a bar which opens from 6, the pool as I ready mentioned and tab,es and chairs to use day and night. Inside, there is a large kitchen area and breakfast bar which can be used any time. There is also a balcony in the main building perfect to chill in and enjoy the day or to drink/play cards at night. 

The wifi here is quite good although you can dip in and out but they do have two different wifi spots to ensure that wifi covers the whole building and outside which is good. 

Breakfast 

Breakfast was good although not the best we have had on the trip. We were provided with one type of fruit which was a bit bland but it was ripe, bread rolls, ham, cheese, cereal, coffee and juice. Breakfast is replenished throughout the morning so getting there just before it closes at 10 is an option for you late sleepers. 

Showers/Toilets 

We had an ensuite room and I have to say hands down, these are the best showers I have seen in South America so far. The pressure and temperature was good, it was spacious, honestly it makes me sad we have left it! 

Staff 

The staff are great here. They are so helpful and attentive whether it's directions,hints and tips about Iguaçu, nothing is too much. To name a few experiences: one male member of staff phoned up   one of the attractions we were considering to find out opening times and cost for us and recommended a restaurant to eat at, another female member of staff booked our table for the restaurant and finally Thays was so helpful,  friendly and included us in activities. You are made to feel so at home here and you really do understand why everyone has rave reviews about the place. 

Value for Money 

This cost us just over £10 per night which is slightly more expensive than other hostels in the area but for the facilities, service and location it is more than worth it. 

Dorms 

The room were nice, although not overly big, every part of the room had a purpose. Plugs were provided to each bed which could be used with two different adapters and if you didn't have the appropriate ones, there were always some to loan at the front desk. Lockers are provided which you don't need your own lock for. 

The dorms are cleaned daily and the beds are made up for you. It honestly feels like you are in a hotel rather than a hostel. 

Location 

The hostel was a ten minute walk from the centre and supermarket. There is a cambio down the road near the petrol station if you need to change money in to pesos which gives a really good exchange rate,in fact when we changed ours it was better than the rate estimated from the apps we had been using. The falls is a ten/fifteen minute bus journey and the stop is a two minute walk away. The international bus station is a bit longer and to get get to the hostel using public transport takes two buses. After what had been near enough a 20 hour journey for us, we just got a taxi which was $R20. 

OVERALL

I would really recommend staying here, it is an amazing hostel and is worth that little bit extra. Go on, treat yourself! 

Imogen xoxo

Short but Sweet in São Paulo

We had a short stop over in São Paulo whilst we travelled from Paraty to the Brazilian side of the Iguassu Falls. Unfortunately the weather really let us down here with what can only be described as the oddest thunderstorms I have ever experienced! This really limited us on what to do here especially because the activities that surround the city rely on good weather e.g. Visiting the Ibirapuera Parque or seeing the panoramic view of São Paulo from the Banespa building. 

Despite this I felt it still needed a mention if only to highlight that if you are considering coming here on your travels ensure you will get at least one day where you can properly explore the city! Again, this is typical of the season so may be worth noting that November time although cooler may not be the best time to visit São Paulo. 

 

Love Imogen xoxo 

São Paulo Hostel Review

TELSTAR HOSTEL

We booked this hostel through, yes you guessed it...Hostelworld! We wanted a pool because we knew São Paulo had no beaches. We were advised to stay in either Vila Mariana or Vila Madalena by a girl we met on our travels. 

Facilities 

Telstar Hostel has a kitchen you can use at any time however I would avoid using it when the cook/cleaner is in to save yourself some hassle. There is also an upstairs lounge area and a pool and bar area outside. Although nice, the pool is quite small so don't expect to be swimming lengths or anything! 

The wifi here was good and worked well in all areas despite the fact that we were in a downstairs room. There is also computers which are free to use as you please. 

Breakfast 

Breakfast was included and if I am honest it was poor. Unlike the other breakfasts we have had on this trip, it was not a buffet. Rather, you are given the choice of a cheese and ham toasted sandwich or omelette. I don't eat cheese so asked for my omelette to be without cheese (in Portuguese). This was a disaster in itself because the cook did not understand my explanation in Portugese, Spanish or English. This was sorted in the end but was a bit of an ordeal at the time. Although, I was offered/forced to eat extra bread because I think the cook thought I wasn't eating... Biscuits, crackers and apples were also provided. The omelette itself was okay but I was glad it was only for two days. Tea and coffee was provided on both days but juice only on one. 

All in all, not a great breakfast and one I will be glad not to be repeating if only to avoid the awkwardness. 

Showers/Toilets 

There were bathrooms both downstairs and upstairs in the hostel. The toilet closest to our room was okay but was very close to the kitchen and with a gap between the ceiling, I just didn't feel it was hygienic. The shower was okay, the only way I can describe it as not clean but not dirty. 

Staff 

Staff were really nice and helpful! They really make the place. On arrival, we were offered help with our bags and a tour. They gave us advice on places to eat and let us use their phone to call the next hostel. At check out, they also let us leave our bags in the room for longer because they knew we weren't starting on journey until a little bit later on. The cook/cleaner can be a little bit rude/stand offish however I don't know if this is because there is an apparent language barrier. My advice, be nice to her and she will hopefully be to you. 

Value for Money 

This was less than £10 per night, and if I am honest seemed over priced for what we were provided with. 

Dorms 

We were in a mixed room for 8. It was quite a basic room with simple furnishings. It has lockers underneath the bed which were big enough to store all of belongings including my large back pack. The lockers don't rely on your own lock either as it is locked with a key provided. They also gave blankets and towels to guests free of charge. The room itself was quite spacious and even had a mirror in it. There were few plugs and some were not in the best condition but we often used the one in the kitchen to charge up our electricals. 

Location 

As I previously said we were told to stay in either Vila Madalena or Mariana. We stayed in Mariana which is a student area which means there are lots of little eateries and bars which are cheap. Plus. It means you look a lot less like a tourist but more a student who attends the university. To get from the bus station we arrived from we took the metro for about 20 minutes. It is then round the corner from the metro. The metro here is $R3 for whatever journey you make, a very decent price in my opinion. Our coach to Foz do Iguaçu, came from the other coach station so to get there we had to get two metros which again was easy enough. 

OVERALL

I think this hostel is a work in progress, there are some really good parts on the hostel but there are areas like the breakfast that definitely need work. 

Imogen xoxo

The Paraty Don't Start Till I Walk In

Paraty actually pronounced parachee, is a small town known for its cobbled streets, perfect for excursions and lazy days on the beach. It is so chilled out here that you can't help but feel relaxed. 

Schooner Boat Trip 

This day out was again included within the pass that we have whilst we are here. However, there are several day boat trips so if this us something you would be interested in I would recommend asking at your hostel or going across the pier and enquiring yourself. 

The company who organised our trip was called Paraty Tours and the boat itself, Netuno I. We visited two islands and two beaches, which we spent between 20 minutes and half an hour exploring, snorkelling, swimming etc. The views from the boat were amazing and it is such a good way to spend a hot day because you can easily cover up in the shade but you have the coolness of the water at every stop. I would advise bringing a lot of sun cream, moisturiser for both your face and body, aswell as lip balm. 

 We brought some snacks but ordered a fish dish with a prawn sauce accompanied by salad, rice and potatoes to share between us. I would recommend ordering a meal rather than the snacks because the sake of $R5 you get so much more. Be aware that a 10% service charge is added on to the price so bear this in mind whilst ordering. 

Out in Paraty 

After meeting some people at our Hostel we decided to go for a few drinks. Due to Paraty being a small town it is exactly known for its night life however there are few interesting places to go. 

Our first stop was Geko bar. This bar is on the beach and linked to the Geko hostel. Their caipirinhas are $R12 but there isn't a service charge. Drinks are strong and the atmosphere chilled, there is normally some sort of live music on the beach at night aswell. 

We then went on a wander around the town and stumbled across La Gamboa. This is a samba bar where drinks are a little bit more expensive but you get the treat of seeing some great dancing. Honestly, it will just make you jealous that you can't dance like that...well it did me!

From here we went to the main bar street which is the road opposite to the river. Bars here are pretty similar and often double up as a restaurant but be careful as food here is pricey. Caipirinhas here were $R10 but there was a service charge. However, when we mentioned that our drinks tasted weak, they took them all back and added even more cachaça!

  

All in all, a good night!   

Praia de Pontal 

The weather we had in Paraty was a bit hit and miss with it swapping between heavy rain showers to glorious sunshine in the space of an hour. Due to this, we often visited the beach near our hostel so we could avoid the storms if needed. The beach itself is not the most beautiful in the world but it still has a nice view, and never felt crowded despite being quite small. If you aren't a sun lover or you just want a bit of shade there are restaurant/bars across the beach in which you can lose yourself in the shade. 

 Love Imogen xoxo

Paraty Hostel Review

PARATY BEACH HOSTEL

We wanted to get a hostel by the beach with good wifi so from the reviews on Hostelworld this place looked perfect. 

Facilities 

Paraty Beach Hostel has two nice outside areas to chill, one next to reception where breakfast is served and another through the first doors which is equipped with tables, chairs, hammocks and a kitchenette which you can use freely. There's also an inside room to chill which has laptops which you can use. 

Wifi sometimes works here and sometimes doesn't but the computers normally always have a good signal if you are desperate to check something etc. 

Breakfast 

Breakfast was included within the price and included an assortment of fruit, bread rolls,cake (although a little bit dry), fruit juice, a mixture of sausage and onion and an assortment of jams and spreads. I have to say I could really get used to eating breakfast by the beach!

Showers/Toilets 

There were gender specific and mixed toilets and showers, which were cleaned daily. If you do stay here I would advise using the girls one which inside the main building and the one opposite the 12 bed dorm. The shower themselves have good pressure and temperature. 

Staff 

The staff here were the friendliest so far, Gus met us on arrival and gave us a map of where everything was and made us feel really welcome. He even offered us another room for additional privacy. The other guy who works there was also really friendly. Although not a member of staff there is a 6 month old golden retriever who is always around the place. The dog is so well trained and will not come inside or bear the dorms although will try beg for food! When we left, Gus also called us a taxi and helped us with our bags- something we really appreciated. 

Value for Money 

This hostel cost around £7 per night which again is a decent price especially because breakfast is included. 

Dorms 

We were in a room of 20, however the room was never completely full and didn't feel too crowded either. There were mosquito nets on the beds and also a fan in our room. I would advise trying to avoid the 12 bed because the air con didn't seem to work and there were no mosquito nets either. Lockers were provided, this time in the corridor outside our room, again you need your own lock.

Location 

Paraty is not very big so being in a bad location is quite hard. We were right next to the beach, a 5 minute walk if that from the centre and a 15 minute walk from the main supermarket and bus station. We got a taxi to the bus station because we didn't want to make the walk in the mid day sun with our large backpacks, this only cost the set rate of  $R20.

OVERALL

I would definitely recommend staying here if you are in Paraty because it is priced well, includes breakfast, has a great staff and I really enjoyed it!

Imogen xoxo