I'm new here but I did search and read several hotel threads. Most of the recommended hotels are not available when we will be there. Therefore I still have questions.

I will be in Rio February 9 through 12. I have a room at the J.W. Marriott with breakfast, executive lounge access and an Atrium view. Other cheaper nearby hotels are already full. Is it just high season or is something going on then? Carnival is in March.

We can get a city view room with breakfast at the Copacabana Plaza for an extra $297 tax included. The rate includes two free 50 minute massages which would cost about $130 USD each although we'd not pay that much. Is the hotel special enough to justify the extra cost. before tax the nightly rate is $435 which is cheap for that hotel but expensive otherwise.

The Sheraton on the beach came well recommended but a friend who stayed there said it is so far from everything that we'd do better at Copacabana beach. Agree?