Landmark Residence

From the outside, the Landmark Residence looks like another modern high-rise building dotting Sao Paulo’s skyline. On the inside, there’s something about it that feels different from other buildings in the area -- a difference that can probably be found somewhere between the faintly Victorian dark wood armchairs and the hints of 1990s style. The hotel’s more traditional decor (read: old-fashioned and dated) stands out in the sea of modernity that Sao Paulo is known for. There’s a bit of comfort in the old but not-quite-antique furniture and the clear resistance to updating the hotel to become another cold, Ikea-showroom-like corporate chain. The small, clunky elevators and dark hallways, however, are less charming. Guests are a mix of families, couples, and business travelers. 

Easily one of the best qualities of this hotel is its location. It's a good location for business and leisure travelers alike, with biking paths and lots to do in walking distance. It’s situated in the Jardins District in central Sao Paulo, an area known for upscale shopping malls, museums, and a variety of nightlife and dining options. It’s two blocks from the Consolacao metro station on Paulista Avenue, offering both quick access to the city’s metro system and an easy walk to one of the most popular and lively streets. The hotel is about a 10-minute walk from the modern collections at the Sao Paulo Museum of Art and the lush walking paths of Trianon Park. Expect a 45-minute drive to Sao Paulo International Airport. 

Honoring the hotel’s European-influenced style, the apartments are named after classical composers like Tchaikovsky and Schubert. The rooms, which are called apartments, are designed with the potential for longer stays. For example, all units include a small kitchenette with a stocked mini-fridge and a tiny two-burner stovetop. Many of the rooms also have a sofa or sitting area for extra space. While a few of the higher-level rooms have been updated with contemporary white furniture, overall the majority of the rooms follow in kind with the '90s theme in the rest of the hotel. The dark furniture and heavy drapes make the rooms feel slightly stuffy and dim. The standard rooms, located on lower floors, are the smallest options, but they do include standard amenities like flat-screen TVs and marble bathrooms. Executive suites are located on higher floors and have generous seating areas separated from the bedroom by sliding doors. They feature extras like a microwave, a larger flat-screen TV, a bathtub, and many have a balcony. The duplex rooms are the most impressive of the bunch. They’re spread out over two floors, featuring a living room on the lower level with a leather sofa, large TV, and fireplace with an electric heater in the hearth. The duplex also offers a large desk, a kitchenette, two balconies (one on each floor), and and an extra half-bathroom. The full bathroom features a whirlpool tub. 

Features are aimed at both business travelers and tourists. The hotel’s European-style restaurant features an outdoor seating area along the sidewalk, allowing guests to take in a bit of city life. The restaurant serves breakfast and lunch, with a full buffet option and dinner a la carte. Breakfast is included in room rates and room service is available. The hotel offers a good variety of equipment in a separate fitness room and a small sauna. One unusual feature at the Landmark Residence not found at most hotels: an updated squash court. To reach the squash court, follow the doors out the back of the hotel and pass through a lush garden with colorful flowers. Amidst the tropical garden setting, you’ll also find a small outdoor pool with a few lounge chairs and tables. On the opposite side of the lobby, the hotel has a tiny business center consisting of one computer in a small, dark room. There’s also one meeting room available for lectures or events. On the lower level, a laundry room is available. Wi-Fi is included for all guests. Parking is available for a fee.