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Brazil Hotels and Resorts - Everything in Brazil seems larger than life. It has the world's wildest party, its greatest waterfall, its biggest wetlands, its mightiest river and its largest rain forest (and one of the most unique and diverse cultures on the planet). For travelers, Brazil's sheer size and variety can be overwhelming. Brazil's problems -- poverty, crime, environmental recklessness -- can seem larger than life, too. Although it is one of the industrial powerhouses of South America, Brazil has trouble feeding all its people. And deforestation of the Amazon basin proceeds at an ominous rate. But in fits and starts, the country is taking on some of its seemingly insoluble problems. Most noticeably, improvement is being made in the dangerous crime situation in Rio: A special branch of "tourist police" now keeps tourist sites -- particularly the beaches of Zona Sul -- relatively safe.

We recommend that you try to venture beyond the thousands of miles of beach to explore Brazil's other remarkable attractions: the traditional Afro-Brazilian culture of Salvador, the colonial towns of Ouro Preto, Sao Luis, Parati and Olinda or the wetlands of the Pantanal, one of the best wildlife preserves in South America. Rio might draw you to Brazil the first time, but the country's unexplored corners and breadth of attractions will make you want to go back.

Sofitel Rio Palace Hotel Rio de Janeiro Brazil Av. Atlantica 4240 Rio de Janeiro 22070-00 Brazil Hotel Rating: Reserve Inquire View Rates

The Sofitel Rio de Janeiro is a deluxe hotel located between the world-famous Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches. In a place where the scenery is like something off a picture postcard, the Sofitel is in the ideal spot to take in the scenic beauty of the surroundings. This hotel offers extensive facilities, which include two fine dining restaurants, a pair of bars, business center, fitness facility, two swimming pools and outstanding views. The Sofitel is an attractive property with a striking, contemporary dÈcor, which underscores its reputation as one of Rio's most prestigious hotels.

ACCOMMODATION: All rooms have a private balcony. Deluxe rooms face towards Copacabana Beach. 80% of the rooms have a view of the sea. All rooms have A/C, mini-bar, phone, color TV with in-house movies, room amenities, bathrobe, slippers, hairdryer, cable TV, voice-mail, electronic safe and daily newspaper delivery. Non-smoking rooms are available. HOTEL FACILITIES & SERVICES: The indescribable feeling of savoring breakfast on your sundeck while admiring Rio's legendary ocean views is a unique privilege for our guests. Facing the reknowned Copacabana shoreline, the Atlantis Restaurant offers tasty dishes from regional to international fare, while the Buffet is always serving something special. For more sophisticated ambience, the gourmet cuisine and extensive wine selection of Le Pre Catalan make for an unforgettable culinary experience. Check out The Horse's Neck Bar, an English pub where you can listen to great music while sampling a wide array of delicious drinks and appetizers. As well, the cozy ambience of our Afternoon Tea is not to be missed, featuring all manner of sweets, biscuits, and other delectables, in addition to a wide variety of delicious teas and assorted hot drinks. Enjoy your day and relax in the hotel's swimming pool, sauna, steam room, or exercise and massage facilities. There is also the Cassino Atlantico Arcade, a great place to shop for jewelry and antiques or visit the boutiques and beauty salons.