Description
This 12-room pousada located right across from the beach looks like a house from the outside and feels like one on the inside. There is a comfortable living room with couches, a large tv/dvd and baskets filled with books (mostly in French). Well-traveled Frenchman, Nicolas, and his Brazilian wife, Gracilda, opened Noa-Noa (a reference to Paul Gaugin’s Tahitian diary) in March 2006, after renovating two abandoned 70-year-old houses. The décor is modern but with touches of historical charm, (like the 200-year-old doors). The brightly painted walls in the common areas and rooms are adorned with Nicolas’ collection of high-quality local art. The staff at Noa-Noa speak fluent French and Spanish but only a little English. The hotel reflects the value the owners place on a good breakfast, cleanliness, comfortable bed and safety (main gate key code is changed every other day and security cameras monitor the entry).

Insider Tips
- Noa-Noa provides airport transfer for R$50 and can arrange for a trustworthy driver for other excursions.
- There is a bar on the front veranda where you can have a drink and watch the waves.
- Most guests are European.
- Ask about Bahian cooking lessons which are sometimes offered at the pousada.

Benefits
-Attentive staff and owners are always around to help.
-Bright, homey atmosphere.

Drawbacks
-No refrigerator in room, though guests can store food in the fridge in the kitchen.
-Rooms without a view are not very bright
-Minimal English spoken

Rooms
The rooms, which are somewhat small, have air conditioning, tv (cable coming soon) and a ceiling fan. Although some rooms have ocean views, the others look out onto a bright orange wall a few meters away. The mattresses are good quality and the bathrooms are clean with tiled walls and glass shower stalls. Soap is provided though shampoo and hair dryer are not.
Doubles R$120 – R$150 (less 10% for single person); Prices include taxes and breakfast.

Food
Breakfast, served on their oceanside patio, includes 4-5 home-baked cakes and a different typical Bahian treat each day in addition to the usual fresh fruits, juices, jams, ham, cheeses and breads.

Children
Children are welcome. Nicolas and Gracilda have a 3-year-old of their own.

	Information:
	Location Avenida Sete de Setembro, 4295 Farol da Barra, Salvador (right across from the Barra Lighthouse).