My wife and I have decided that we would like to go somewhere new for our 10th wedding anniversary next June and have decided to visit Rio. Neither of us have been to Brazil or indeed South America before and despite it being a year away, we are rather excited. I've managed to find two First Class seats on BA so that's taken care of, what I would like some help with, is hotels.

We'll be in Rio for 4 nights and the idea of staying at one of the beachfront hotels on Copacabana or Ipanema seems great. The constant shots of the beachfront as I watch the World Cup reinforces my view daily! In terms of budget, I've looked at the Sofitel and JW Marriott, both of which are around the £250 per night bracket which is fine. A private area on the beach is tempting too.

With that in mind:

1. Is one beach significantly better than the other?

2. Any recommendations as to where we should stay?

3. Should we stay somewhere else in Rio?

4. Any recommendations on things to do and places to eat. I realise that this is a question with an endless answer and there is plenty of stuff on the web, but if you had to list a few things or a must-eat location for Carioca food, where would you suggest?

Thanks in advance,
BiH