Novotel RJ Praia de Botafogo

The Novotel in Botafogo did not accept my international credit card (from the US). I have used this card for years and never had any issues. I noticed that some credit card machines from the "rede" vendor in Brazil did not accept my card. However, a hotel such as this should have alternative options for payment. I actually had to go to a bank and withdraw the full amount of my stay and pay in cash, which is unbelievable in 2022. Again, this is *not* a cheap hotel, so this type of problem should not happen. I was lucky because I have a Brazilian bank account, otherwise I would have to find another hotel. For reference, my card was accepted at both the small supermarket and restaurant close to the hotel. I was considering having dinner at the hotel but couldn't, so this is definitely hurting your business. Next time I am in Rio I will call the hotel in advance and ask about the credit card machine. If things hadn't change I'll look for another option.

We stayed here for our final 3 nights in Rio after moving over from Copa area. We have a mixed review on the stay. Pros: the rooms were clean and comfortable. This is definitely incredibly important! The bed was very comfortable. House keeping was such a nice service to have each day, as a lot of hotels have actually moved away from daily house keeping. They also service breakfast as well which is also a major plus. Cons: our check in experience was rough. We actually checked in online the day before thinking it would be easy. When we arrived the next morning we dropped our bags and they said as soon as the room is ready they would let us know. We never heard back, and when we returned in the afternoon we had to go through the entire check in process all over again. Following that we also could not have keys made for the room causing more of a delay. Not having irons and ironing board was a major inconvenience. When you are on a trip and living out of a suitcase that iron is crucial. When I tried to get one from the front they didn’t have a board to go with so there really wasn’t a whole lot I could do. Next, unless you have a beach facing view the views are not that glamorous (not a deal breaker, but it’s a con). Lastly, the TV only had one channel in English which was CNN, and this type of tv is unable to change the audio language like many of the newer smart TVs (also not a deal breaker, but a con for those that don’t speak the language while on vacation). All in all we had a clean and comfortable room, but there were some cons for us.

I’m a customer of Accor Network! Third time I’ve been in this Hotel! While some Hotels let the rooms being degradate, Novotel keeps the rooms cleaned and very comfortable! We loved to stay here! Sure we’re going to come back

The only reason this Hotel still alive is because of its privileged view. Staff isn't prepare, Manager has no approach, I had to wait 3 hours to be checked in. Not even a coutesy coffee offered . Definately needs to work more in hospitality. Still, all surrounds ammenities pays the price.

The main reason I usually choose this Hotel is because is new, well maintained and mainly well located, close to one of the most beautiful views of Rio de Janeiro. There are plenty bars, restaurantes, malls around and the metro is few blocks away. This is my third time at Novotel RJ Praia de Botafogo and it is the third time it calls my attention how unfriendly and disrespectful the staff are. I do not record the name of the employee but I called on the 24th at 21:00 asking for ice cream and whoever answer the phone was extremely impolite. When I received the ice cream was even worse. I'm a big fan of Accor hotels but it is time to train and choose better employees at Novotel RJ Praia de Botafogo. I know few people that stayed at the same hotel and complained about the same thing.