The Rio Othon Palace is one of the tallest buildings on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro. |
BY MARK CHESNUT
During a recent visit to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to check out the revamped Maracanã Stadium and and other venues and upgrades related to the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympics, I stayed at the Rio Othon Palace, one of the tallest hotels on Copacabana Beach. In this hotel review and VIDEO, I show what I liked best.
THE STYLE: Located on a beachfront stretch of the legendary neighborhood called Copacabana, the 572-room Rio Othon Palace is one of the largest hotels on the beach, with full service and an unobtrusive style. One of the selling points is the location; the hotel is not far from Ipanema, and is just steps away from the new Museu de Son y Imagem (Museum of Sound and Image), which opens in 2013.
THE SERVICE: Skip the line at the main floor reception area by splurging on an executive-level room, which includes swift VIP registration and checkout in the 27th floor lounge, where you can also pick up snacks and sandwiches (including to-go lunch bags that are perfect for odd arrival and departure times).
THE AMENITIES: My room was on one of the executive floors, with free WiFi, which is a big plus (but bring your own iron). The sliding glass, floor-to-ceiling windows made it easy to enjoy the photogenic view. International cable, served up via a flat-screen TV, provided plenty of in-room entertainment options.
Accommodations include free breakfast at the sizeable breakfast buffet.
The 30th-floor rooftop pool is small but refreshing, and a good place to enjoy the amazing panoramic views of the beach. Another good place to enjoy the view is Skylab, the 30th-floor bar and restaurant. There is a gym on the 30th floor as well, with an access charge of 20 reais (a bit more than U.S.$10) per day.
BEST FOR: Travelers looking for a full-service hotel in a beachfront location at a relatively value-oriented price.
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