Glen - THese might have some info. I've always stayed at the Ipanema Inn. Cheap, small rooms close to the beach. Probably not what you're looking for for NYE though.
http://www.ipanema.com/rio/hotels/e/home.htm#top
http://www.brazilinfo.com/hotels/bra..._detailsen.htm
http://www.solmelia.es/

Have a caiparinha for me.


Tchau
Dick