Front-desk (Eliabe) and porter (Rafael & crew) services were above expectation. Free buffet breakfast had all the desired items: bread, cereal, cheese, egg, meat, milk (no 2%-fat) and juice choices. The hotel, 2.5 blocks to the beautiful Ipanema beach, offers free carry-out beach towels. It’s located in Visconde de Piraja, where bakery, coffee/tea/wine, clothing, electronic shops abound. So many restaurant choices (Baked Paderia for coffee/pastry, Spettacolo Grill for lunch/dinner). One/two currency exchanges in the area.