Tulip Inn Batel

You don't have to pay a lot to stay in a prosperous part of Curitiba. Located in the wealthy Batel area, this Tulip Inn offers pleasant accommodations at a comfortable price, close to shopping and nightlife. Pop next door to the club Aos Democratas, where you can order cocktails and hear samba music. (The bar is also a popular hangout for locals to watch soccer matches.) Kyocera Arena, site of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, is just 15 minutes on foot from the hotel. Check the stadium's schedule and see if you can catch a game while you're in town.

This socially progressive city is a university town, and the capital of Brazil's southern state of Parana. The rapid bus transit is modeled after a metro, but it's comprised entirely of above-ground vehicles. Urban planners from around the world look to Curitiba to see its innovative solution to gridlock. This city even has a bus line designed exclusively for tourists. The Linha Turismo leaves every 30 minutes, and the Praca Tiradentes departure point is an easy 20-minute walk from the hotel. During the 2.5-hour tour, you can hop off and explore 4 different sights while the bus winds its way to more than 20 different attractions.

After a full day hitting the streets, you can come back to the Tulip Inn Curitiba Batel and enjoy a drink in the lounge, or send email to family from the 24-hour business center. The hotel also features 4 meeting rooms. You can start your day off right with a continental breakfast (surcharge), or an early workout in the fitness center. The hotel offers laundry facilities and a 24-hour front desk. A small convenience store in the hotel can supply any essentials.

Your modern guestroom will be a restful retreat after a busy day. (Hardwood floors may be especially appealing to visitors with dust allergies.) You can ask for sandwiches and light snacks from room service if you're hungry, or just open the minibar and make yourself a drink. Log onto the free WiFi to research sightseeing options. Stash your valuables in the in-room safe before you leave.