Hotel Marina All Suites
For a luxury hotel with a difference, look no further than Hotel Marina All Suites, in upmarket Leblon. The hotel sits directly in front of the beach, and is comprised of just 37 suites in a lofty high rise building. While suites on the lower floors are smart but relatively basic, those on the upper levels have each been signed by a different designer, and offer every luxury imaginable - from plunge pools to powerful stereo systems.
The hotel's location close to Leblon's chic bars, boutiques and restaurants have made it a firm favourite with Brazilian and international celebrities who want to avoid the prying eyes of the paparazzi (those who want to sleep between the same sheets as a supermodel may be interested to know that Gisele's favourite suite is the Diamante...).
As well as a rooftop pool with fantastic ocean views, the top floor of the building boasts one of Rio's most fashionable bars, Bar D'Hotel, where the city's 'gente bonita' (beautiful people), gather to eat, drink, and pose.
The bar is open to non-guests, and cocktails here are pricey but very good - if your budget will only stretch to one drink here, try the Royal - vodka, Cointreau, lime and ginger (R$14); or the Caipirubi - vodka with mixed red berries (R$16). The menu has a strong emphasis on finger food; from mini hamburgers made with lamb and foie gras, to mini bruschettas topped with everything from sundried tomato and buffallo mozzeralla to shiitake mushroom.
Prices for the suites range from around R$370 to R$800, and vary dramatically in terms of style - it's worth browsing the hotel's website (www.marinaallsuites.com.br) to choose the suite that most appeals.
Service at the hotel is impeccable, and there are numerous quirky touches such as a bar/living room for entertaining guests, and a state-of-the art home cinema. Both can be pre-booked, and reception staff will arrange for requested films to be picked up, free of charge, from nearby rental stores.