Aram Yami Hotel

Situated in a narrow and picturesque, three-story colonial home, the Aram Yami is brightly colored on the outside while the interior is tastefully adorned. The earth-toned lobby features bright-red birds of paradise flowers, ancient dolls and statues -- including multiple representations of Buddha -- and a colorful armchair made from thousands of hand-tied Brazilian ribbons. Although the hotel is situated in the heart of the city, there is a tropical freshness about it with its sweeping views of the harbor, pristine swimming pool, and bamboo deck furniture.

Tucked onto a quiet street in Salvador de Bahia’s historic Pelourinho neighborhood, the Aram Yami is surrounded by the colonial architecture that earned the city its status as a UNESCO Heritage site. Famous for its beer and samba music, the neighborhood is filled with restaurants and shops, and there are only two streets separating the hotel from Todos os Santos Bay. On a narrow street that isn't easy to navigate by car, the hotel is within 10- to 15-minutes walking distance of the city's historic main square and attractions. Other sights like Bonfim Church and Itapagipe Peninsula are about 15-20 minutes north by car. The airport is about 30 minutes east by taxi.

Though the Aram Yami has only six guest rooms, each is optimized with a view of the harbor and access to the pool and patio. Because the rooms are so spacious, they appear sparsely decorated in spite of the presence of a desk, wardrobe, chairs, and large queen- or king-sized bed in each. There’s a jungle flare to the airy spaces due to the hardwood floors, fresh tropical plants, and mosquito netting over the beds. There’s also a flat-screen TV with several channels, Wi-Fi access, and a safe in every unit. The bathrooms, while clean, are completely tiled from floor to ceiling, with the toilet and shower not separated by a door and making the space as a whole look and feel like a shower.

For a six-room boutique hotel, the Aram Yami goes above and beyond with its amenities, which include a small pool geared for lounging and an expansive breakfast of fresh tropical juices and homemade baked goods served on a lovely patio with views of the bay. There’s free Wi-Fi throughout the property as well, and while there’s no on-site restaurant for lunch or dinner, there is a small menu for room service. Other services -- laundry, airport transfers, tour guides, massages, and babysitting -- are available upon request and for additional fees.