Caio Braz
Five stars
Belmond Copacabana Palace provides the best service imaginable for their guests. The staff are very attentive and it’s a place that offers a timeless experience. Head to the charming pool for a view that’s not to be missed.
Avenida Atlântica 1702, Copacabana; +55 21 2548 7070; www.belmond.com
Dine about town
I’m a huge fan of CT Boucherie, which has the best steak in town. You choose your meat and decadent side dishes, which are endless. It’s a pleasant place with the highest quality cuisine.
Rua Dias Ferreira 636, Leblon; +55 21 2529 2329; www.ctboucherie.com.br
Luxury shopping
Dona Coisa is a great fashion boutique with the best selection of Brazilian designers. A modern and cosy place, the best of Brazilian fashion is found here.
Rua Lopes Quintas 153, Jardim Botânico; +55 21 2249 2336; www.donacoisa.com.br
Happy hour
Sobe is a rooftop gastro-pub that has a great selection of drinks and music. The open-air vibe is amazing and the place is a hotspot for musicians, artists, actors and the fashion crowd. The fruit caipirinhas are delicious.
Rua Pacheco Leão 732, Jardim Botânico; +55 21 3114 7691; www.facebook.com/barsobe
Local culture
I’m a fan of MAR’s (Museu de Arte do Rio) great architecture and exhibitions. The easiest way to avoid lines? Visit on a sunny day – Cariocas [Rio locals] don’t go to museums when it’s sunny; they go to the beach instead.
Praça Mauá 5, Centro; +55 21 3031 2741; www.museudeartedorio.org.br
Rock out
Rock in Rio is quite a fun experience – the best pop and rock bands in the world play at this festival every year in either September or October. If you like music it’s the place to be for a week full of unforgettable concerts.
Day Tripper
I love taking the day off to visit Niterói, a city across the bridge from Rio. The Contemporary Art Museum is there; it’s an astonishing landmark designed by architect Oscar Niemeyer, one of Brazil’s icons. Scenery alert!
Mirante da Boa Viagem, s/nº, Boa Viagem; +55 21 2620 2400; www.macniteroi.com.br
Adventure time
Take a helicopter tour around Christ the Redeemer to snap the best pictures of your life. Everything about the Rio scenery is breathtaking and unique.
+55 21 2511 2141; www.helisight.com.br