Arguably São Paulo’s most hip and happening hotel, the Hotel Unique is the place to rub shoulders with the city’s chic set and international jet setters alike.
“Oh, you’re staying at the Watermelon?” a Paulistano friend proclaimed whilst we sipped coffee in Rua Oscar Freire, São Paulo’s chic fashion street and answer to Bond Street or Fifth Avenue. We had arrived in the city after the long flight from London, so we were a little confused by his comment at first. But on returning to the Hotel Unique that afternoon, we soon understood.
The Hotel Unique’s architecture is quirky, to say the least. Its striking crescent shape does make it look like a watermelon indeed and its ship-like porthole windows double as seeds. The hotel brings a whole new meaning to luxury hospitality in Brazil. Far more international and design-led than its competitors, the décor is stylish and modern (high ceilings, dark elevators) eccentric, playful and sexy.
The interiors are striking and contemporary, courtesy of designer João Armentano – adding to the already inherent minimalist penthouse vibe, focussed around the large porthole windows that bring the gritty, urban jungle that is São Paulo into the space, for that much-sought sense of place.
And by night, the Hotel Unique comes alive, mainly in its rooftop space – offering visitors a chance to hobnob with the city’s chic-set. And when it comes to having to nurse the caipirinha hangovers the next day (trust us, you’ll have one), you’ll return to the scene of the crime and laze by its Insta-famous red pool.
| Perfect for | Fly into | Right on time |
| The Hedonist | GRU | GMT -3 |
| While you’re Out There |
| Take a walk in the ‘lungs’ of São Paulo. As the city is sprawling, no one really walks anywhere; but just a short stroll from the hotel (although the staff at the Hotel Unique may insist on a driver or taxi – which incidentally takes longer, but is just the done thing), we found Ibirapuera Park, which is home to the ‘MAM’ or Museu de Arte Moderna de São Paulo. While you’re there, do also check out the Auditório Ibirapuera, a legendary piece of Oscar Niemeyer architecture. |
Photography courtesy of Hotel Unique
At OutThere, we believe in boundless travel. But we understand that some destinations can pose challenges to travellers that complicate visiting them. We advise all visitors to inform themselves about local legislation and customs, and to work with a trusted travel provider in order to ensure a safe and pleasant holiday.
