A couple of weeks ago we decided to go to Rio de Janeiro for the first time and I suggested to my hubby to stay at Copacabana Palace Hotel to get to see in person the recent renovations this Orient Express landmark went through under the responsibility of French Architect Michel-Jouannet. After we thought we purchased our plane tickets three weeks in advance (transaction done in Portuguese) it turned out we didn't really buy any tickets so we had to drive 6 hours to get to Rio. We thought it was going to be a pain but the drive was actually pretty beautiful.
There are still some renovations going on in some areas of the Hotel but, the main areas are finished. The lobby was expanded, including the steps and this sitting area (above) was added. Everything looks as it's been there forever. We had a great time and can't wait to go back to Rio.
It's funny how we take airplanes, drive for long hours and go through all the hassles that comes with traveling and then we love to stay in and order room service. This photo above illustrates how Copacabana Hotel doesn't stay short of exquisite when it comes to food. We were only two and a half people and the half doesn't even eat! We promised ourselves that the next time we go there we'll bring plastic containers with us to either not spend one extra dime on food for the rest of our stay or to take the leftover to homeless people on the streets.
The Hotel's restaurant, Cipriani
The stunning swimming pool area transported me to the glamorous days of the 20's
One of my favorite experiences was when we went to visit Corcovado to see the big Jesus, as my son calls him. The experience is pretty impressive and special.
Pao de Azucar is that huge mountain that you see in many photos and it's also the place where many famous Rio de Janeiro pictures were taken.
We drove all along the beach coast and my favorite beach was a very quiet beach, yes you read that right, named Sao Conrado along Av. Neimeyer. This picture above was taken there.
