Wish Hotel da Bahia

Dating back to the 1950s, this hotel has some nice mid-century modernist details, but it is somewhat bland and certain areas could use a refresh. The most interesting feature in the lobby is a concrete sculpture above the reception desk showing everyday scenes of 1950s Bahia life. Common areas are generally spacious and bright, thanks to abundant floor-to-ceiling windows allowing in plenty of natural light. Like almost every Sheraton in the world, the open lobby leads to the hotel's main communal spaces. Several sofa and chair groups provide places where guests can hang out in the lobby, with the bar adjacent. The hotel is popular with tour groups, and plenty of business guests stay here. Families and couples also make their way here, but Starwood loyalists may find that this hotel is not quite up to the standards they expect. The Club Lounge in particular is an underwhelming reward for what are generally pricey upgrades.

This hotel is situated in downtown Salvador, a four-minute walk from Campo Grande Square and across the street from a bus stop. There are numerous shops and restaurants all around, and bustling Avenida Sete de Setembro is about five minutes away on foot. While this will give you a taste of local life, and works for business guests, the hotel is a bit removed from Salvador's major tourist sights. Guests can drive to the Elevador Lacerda and Mercado Modelo in 10 minutes and to the Pelourinho historic area in 10 to 15 minutes. Igreja de Sao Francisco is a 15-minute drive from the hotel, as is Porto da Barra Beach. Plan on 40 to 50 minutes to reach Salvador International Airport by car. 

Rooms and suites are modern and minimalist, with neutral color schemes, wood floors, clean-lined furniture, and simple white bed linens. Little retro touches give them just the slightest stylish edge, and large black-and-white photos hang on the walls. Work desks are paired with ergonomic chairs. Other amenities include large flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, minibars, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Suites have sitting areas with sofas and second TVs. Bathrooms are sharp, but compact, and equipped with toiletries, rainfall showerheads, magnifying mirrors, and hairdryers. Upgraded rooms have nice furnished balconies with views onto the city skyline. Some feature outdoor whirlpools. The Presidential suite includes a fully equipped kitchen and space for proper dining. Its large balcony features a plunge pool and nice views of the city. Keep in mind that while Club Rooms on higher floors are available, the Club Lounge isn't the perk-filled oasis it is at Sheratons elsewhere in the world.

Features here are decent, though some extras are a little lacking -- in particular the Club Lounge for premium guests. Freebies there are few, and there's no happy hour. Otherwise, Restaurante Passeio da Vitoria is on the ground floor and serves all meals buffet-style, with regional and international selections. The breakfast buffet is included in some rates. The dining room is modern and sophisticated, with wood floors and wooden tables and chairs. There's also a chic bar in the lobby and another out by the pool. Food gets mostly solid marks from previous guests.Lounge chairs are lined up along the sides of the round outdoor pool, and dining tables and chairs shaded by umbrellas are available for alfresco dining. Kids get their own small pool. Palm trees sway overhead, though the whole area is looking a bit tired. The full-service spa offers massages, facials, and body treatments, along with a relaxation area. A well-outfitted 24/7 fitness center includes a decent amount of cardio and weight-training equipment, as well as free weights and exercise balls. The business center provides computers and a printer for guests to use, and events spaces are available. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. An on-site shop sells clothing, souvenirs, travel essentials and gifts. Parking is free.