Around The World

Orient-Express' Copacabana Palace is signature hotel in town. The pool suites, which have views of the famous pool, poolside bar, and the beacch, offer separate living and bedrooms, big bathrooms, and oceanfront terraces. The hotel's cuisine is delicious, as would be expected from an Italian restaurant bearing the name Cipriani, and the Rolling Stones are just the most recent in a long list of celebrities who have relaxed over cocktails poolside.

You can alternatively soak up the sun alongside the attractive Cariocas (locals) on the famous beaches of Ipanema and Leblon: surfers favor Ponto do Arpoador. The beach vendors — selling everything from clothing to drinks to chochktes — can be a bit annoying, but a firm “no” will keep them at bay. A popular activity - for locals and tourists - is to stroll or jog along the path lining the beach. This is great people-watching, and you can stop for a fresh “coconut water” or juice at one of the many kiosks along the way.

I really enjoy Rio's intimate and interesting Portuguese, Brazilian and eclectic specialty restaurants. Ipanema’s ViaSete is a favorite of the well-heeled local crowd for its plates of freshly grilled picahna (steak) burgers, crunchy Moroccan salad and grilled hearts of palm, as is Gula Gula for its extensive and unique salad menu. Antiquarius, in Leblon, is one of the top (and priciest) restaurants serving traditional Portuguese specialties in a restored house in a tree-lined neighborhood.

Japanese food is quite fashionable in Rio, with Sushi Leblon topping the list of hot spots. Rio’s famous nightlife runs the gamut from loud local samba clubs in downtown Lapa to casual beachside cafes and trendier upscale bars. Leblon and Ipanema are dotted with the latter, including Bar 121, Caneco 70, and Bar d’hotel, as well as longtime local favorites Clipper, Jobi and Garota de Ipanema. Music lovers wanting to dance and soak up the sounds of samba should head to Asa Branca and Casa Rosa (Pink House). Saturday nights draw the largest crowds, but Casa Rosa’s Sunday Samba Party is also a fun place to mingle with the Cariocas. Club Six, Zero Zero and Melt are other popular spots to enjoy Rio after dark.