"An art-deco seaside landmark set directly across from Copacabana Beach and framed by Ipanema and Sugarloaf Mountain, this gleaming white hotel—designed by French architect Joseph Gire—has drawn glamorous guests since 1923. Beach-facing rooms open via French doors onto balconies, a turquoise pool fringed with sun beds creates a quintessential Rio scene, and its legacy includes hosting stars such as Brigitte Bardot, Ella Fitzgerald, and Nat King Cole." - Mary Holland