G

What is the weather like end of April- beginning of May? Where is a good place to shop for clothes and souviners? What's a nice place to stay near the beach?? All suggestions appreciated. Thanks.

Nino

G, weather is nice as it is all year round in Rio - except July that is a little bit colder. To shop you should go to the Barra Shopping that is a nice Shopping Center where you will find everything. Hotels near the beach are a litte bit expensive, could you tell me what your budget is? <BR>Have a nice trip!!!!

Gee

Hi Nino, <BR> <BR>My husband and I would like to stay in a full service hotel,no more than $100.00 a nite. Any suggestions? What are some areas (cities) near Rio? Thanks.

Erin

What do you mean by a "full-service hotel"? How close do you want to be to the beach...1-2 or 3-4 blocks? Most of the hotels within 1-2 blocks of the beach are pricey, especially the ones directly across from the beach. Some of the good budget hotels I've heard of are Ipanema Inn, Arpoador Inn, and Hotel Debret. NOTE: the budget hotels may not have pools. For more information on hotels, check out website www.ipanema.com. Good Luck!

Nino

G, you can find some hotels in Copacabana by the beach rated about USD 130.00 to USD 150.00 a night. Try the Plaza Copacabana - phone number (55 21) 586-0000. I usually stay there when I'm in Rio since I live in Sao Paulo. I really don't reccomend you to stay in any hotel that is not by the beach since it's really not safe at night.