CApreppie

I'm headed to Rio for my first time from April 7-11. I have booked the Everest Park Hotel in Ipanema for US$101/night + 5% taxes. I got the hotel to match Orbitz.com directly, since I prefer not to have to use a middleman. It was the cheapest rate I could find.

The location is excellent and I can use the pool and amenities of the more deluxe sister Everest Rio Hotel around the block. It seemed like a good deal to me considering that less deluxe hotels in the area are going for US$80-85/night at least. It seems to be a prime area to stay in. I didn't want to pay Caesar Park prices unfortunately. I perused the travel books and online sites for prices and reviews/recommendations beforehand.

I had to pay for one night initially with my CC. Anyone have any experiences or comments with the Everest Hotels?

Any suggestions about Rio, in general?

Thanks!