Rio de Janeiro is a city where high accommodation prices are only occasionally matched by similarly high standards, and many visitors express disappointment at paying over the odds for less-than-inspired lodgings. Thankfully, the arrival of Linx Hotel International Airport Galeão has given a much needed boost to the city's airport accommodation scene, and it's a good hotel in its own rght.
For air passengers looking for a room with easy access to Rio's airports, the options had long been limited. While the downtown domestic airport Santos Dumont at least benefits from being close to some decent business hotels and lively backpacker hostels, the international airport is a long way from central Rio. The few options here were traditionally overpriced and underwhelming.
Linx Hotel International Aiport Galeão offers modern, comfortable rooms — Photo courtesy of GJP Hotels and Resorts
But that was before Linx Hotel opened in late 2013. Along with a super-inviting infinity pool that helps make up for the lack of a nearby beach, the decor is slick and modern. Also, the rooms – although rather small – are clean, minimalist-chic and well-maintained.
Thankfully, beds are comfortable; beddings are crisp and clean; and service is excellent. Staff speak fluent English, still a relative rarity on Rio's hotel scene. There's a gym packed with first-class, modern equipment and a business center for meetings and techie necessities, such as printers and scanners.
The small but stylish hotel bar offers an opportunity to while away a few hours at the airport - a blessing considering that the surrounding area is not one that many visitors would want to wander around.
Furthermore, the hotel scores serious brownie points for its free shuttle service to and from the airport itself, which is located a mere 500 meters from the hotel property. Guests arriving at the airport should look for the Linx kiosk in the arrivals lounge, where there's a free-to-use phone dedicated for calling the shuttle service.
A good buffet breakfast of fresh fruits, juices, breads, cheeses, cold cuts, cakes and pastries and strong coffee should have guests primed for early morning flights out of Rio, and the friendly, helpful staff go out of their way to make early or late departures or arrivals go smoothly.
For a one-night stay, this hotel does the business with panache.
