Since it opened, Just over 80 years ago, this hotel has built up a reputation as being Rio's grandest, although that took a battering during the 1970s and 1980s. It was designed by a French architect, Joseph Gire, to rival Hotel Negresco (T 00 33 4 9316 6400) and the Intercontinental Carlton (T 00 33 4 9306 4006), the twin jewels of the Riviera. When Orient-Express took over, towards the end of the 1980s, it received a much-needed facelift. For a superb view, go for a Penthouse Suite with private veranda. Poolside Suites are also pretty nifty, and the Superior Beach View Rooms (overleaf), on the third and fourth floors, are spacious. Its Cipriani restaurant is one of the best in the city and there's a fantastic rooftop pool and tennis court. Avenida Atlantica 1702, T 2548 7070,
