Copacabana Palace Hotel review

Copacabana Palace Hotel via belle vivir blog

I suggested by hybby Copacabana Palace Hotel in Rio de Janeiro for our first visit to the City.   I wanted to see firsthand the recent renovations this Orient Express landmark went through under the responsibility of French Architect Michel-Jouannet.  After purchasing 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 and it ended up being faster than I thought.    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 below was added.  Everything looks as it’s been there forever.  We had a great time and can’t wait to go back to Rio.

Copacabana Palace Hotel via belle vivir blog

Copacabana Palace Hotel via belle vivir blog
Copacabana Palace Hotel via belle vivir blog
Copacabana Palace Hotel via belle vivir blog
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!
Copacabana Palace Hotel via belle vivir blog
The Hotel’s restaurant, Cipriani
Copacabana Palace Hotel via belle vivir blog
Copacabana Palace Hotel via belle vivir blog
The stunning swimming pool area transported me to the glamorous days of the 20’s
Copacabana Palace Hotel via belle vivir blog
Copacabana Palace Hotel via belle vivir blog

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.

Copacabana Palace Hotel via belle vivir blog
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.
Copacabana Palace Hotel via belle vivir blog

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.

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9 thoughts on “Copacabana Palace Hotel review

  1. Ginger

    To celebrate our anniversary in Nov. 2005, my husband and I travelled to Rio and spent five nights at the Copacabana Palace! It remains one of our favorite hotels! Our room was newly renovated – it overlooked the pool. It was superb! We hired a fantastic guide, Madsen, and the trip is one that we still rave about! My husband decided to go hang-gliding to celebrate his 50th birthday and thanks to Madsen, we were delivered to the perfect place at the perfect time with … perfect weather! His "flight" was magical! My ride back down the mountain in reverse – memorable!!! We loved Brazil and are planning a trip to Argentina soon.

  2. Karen Albert

    Dearest Julie,
    A fabulous place I have always wanted to visit! Your photos are perfect and what else can I say about the Copacabana Palace Hotel!

    All the Best in the Year Ahead!
    Karena
    Art by Karena

  3. therelishedroost

    Of course I am singing "At the Copa" as I read this post!! I love that Painting in the lobby!! Wonderful photos!
    Xo Karolyn

  4. Karen

    Hello, Julie, I love your beautiful blog and am now following you back! Thanks for following me and welcome! xx

  5. Liana @ Woodyliana

    Sao Conrado is also my favorite beach. I spent many summer vacations up there. The casual elegance and charm is everywhere

  6. The enchanted home

    Oh this brings so much back for me, Julie! I lived in Rio at 12 for 3 years, it was an amazing time. Then 10 years later went back for my honeymoon! Just seeing that typical Brazilian breakfast makes me wish I was there….such a fabulous city!!

    Happy 2013!

  7. classiq

    Happy New Year, dear Julie! May 2013 bring you wonderful things and a few more fulfilled dreams! The photos are lovely and you look wonderful! I love watching you Brazilian adventure. xo
    Hugs,
    Ada

  8. Mariette VandenMunckhof-Vedder

    Dearest Julie,
    Love this post as it does have a lot of your personal thoughts and you captured your surroundings. So your background is Brazilian?
    Do you have ANY idea why Sinks in the US and also in South America often, have the three hole instead of our West European one hole? We got our vanity from Spain (for our Rose Suite; latest addition) and previous from Italy. ALL our faucets are one-handled from Damixa/Danmark. I find it more convenient to use and also hygienic for being able to open with the back of your hand when working in kitchen etc.
    Would love to hear your view on this.
    You got a cute son!
    Hugs,
    Mariette

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