
Opened in 2002, this $90 million hotel is the third tower in the Centro Empresarial Nacoes Unidas business complex and stands adjacent to the World Trade Center complex. Its construction has been the catalyst for the burgeoning Morumbi business district, and it known as Hilton's largest investment in Latin America.
A short walk from the equally attractive Gran Estanplaza and Microsoft headquarters, in the parklike setting of the CENU, this Hilton is proving itself to be one of the city's top contenders. Although it opened around the same time as the Grand Hyatt a few blocks away, this place looks newer and shows slightly better maintenance. No wonder that it was chosen to host U.S. President George W. Bush during his March 2007 visit to the city, which shut down the entire hotel for the diplomatic visit.
The light streaming in from the massive atrium above illuminates the lobby's lovely white marble floors. The lobby is fastidiously maintained, and overall, this hotel looks as if it opened its doors yesterday. Hovering above the polished chrome reception area is a bright red and blue sculpture. Plenty of comfortable armchairs provide easy relaxation in the adjoining lounge. An Italian-style cafe, Caffe Cino,
occupies a corner of the lobby. The lobby area features Wi-Fi access.
On the mezzanine, the Canvas Bar & Grill is an art-themed restaurant featuring temporary exhibitions and menus that are painted on canvases and thus are themselves works of art. A raised platform walkway serves as the perfect path for enjoying the revolving art exhibitions while listening to the live music. The wine selection is perhaps the best in the city among hotel restaurants.
The more informal Sol & Sombra offers an international buffet and sushi and has become a popular lunch spot for people working in the nearby office towers.
The 24-hour rooftop fitness center features a well-equipped gym, whirlpool, sauna and panoramic indoor pool. Many locals have also become members and use the facilities to stay in shape.
A business center supplies four workstations, two laptop stations, copy machines, scanners and fax machines. The 11 meeting rooms, including two ballrooms on the lobby level,
have a capacity of up to 600 people. Technological amenities include HD-capable video equipment and Internet access. An American Airlines ticket counter is located squarely in the lobby attracting local business. No pets are allowed.
The modern art in the public areas carries into the hallways en route to guest rooms. The more subtly appointed guest rooms show plush carpeting and pastel color schemes. Firm king and queen beds are covered with thick duvets and numerous pillows, and well-designed sitting areas provide breakfast tables. Bonuses include stereos with CD players, cable TVs, minibars, safes, robes and slippers.
Executive suites come with international power outlets and a mini-business center with copy and fax machines. Guest units have been divided into sections differentiating work and play. Business areas feature hardwood floors, efficient work desks with all the necessary supplies, ergonomic desk chairs, dual-line speaker phones with voice mail and data ports, and high-speed Internet access (for a fee).
Art-deco themes in the baths with unusual chrome basins make for a
different look. The suite baths have TVs enclosed in the wall and creative blown-glass vanity sinks. Hair dryers and phones in baths are standard.
Many units are designed as themed rooms, such as the eight Relaxation Rooms that come with aromatherapy bath salts, candles, incense, additional pillows and a 15-minute massage, all for a premium additional price, of course. Executive accommodations include units on the Club level with access to a panoramic lounge with breakfast and evening snacks plus private concierge service.
Proximity, maintenance and amenities make this property a top choice for serious business travelers. International bureaucrats find their way here regularly, too, receiving official welcomes from management upon their arrival.
The gracious and courteous staff adds to the overall professional atmosphere and high standards found throughout the hotel. Those arriving on discounted rates will find one of the best bargains in town.