Copacabana Palace, Rio de Janeiro: The Jewel of South America

There's no bad time to visit Rio. So what if it's autumn; you can always heat things up in Brazil! And the off-season means cheaper airfares and deals aplenty. Head to Copacabana beach to experience the unrivaled beauty of Rio's world-famous sand and surf. Here, the Copacabana Palace looms over the beach in all its splendor (and not just any part of the beach-- we're talking prime Rio real estate). The Copacabana Palace is so legendary, so famous, it's secured its own listing in the book, 1,000 Places To See Before You Die. Indeed the Copacabana Palace embodies the glamour of Rio. Throughout the hotel's distinguished history, royalty, film stars, politicians, and business leaders have flocked to the sophisticated meeting place for Rio's high society. The hotel's dining establishments-- The Hotel Cipriani Restaurant and The Pergula Restaurant-- are two of the city's finest. Other facilities include semi-Olympic size swimming pool, tennis court, Fitness Centre, Beauty Salon, and Beach Service. The 6th floor Penthouse suites feature works of art, oriental carpets and French fabrics and an exclusive swimming pool.