Premier Copacabana Hotel

The hotel's glass-paneled exterior looks like an office building, and inside, not much changes. The lobby combines a bland, wood-paneled reception desk and corporate-like brown rugs along with funky, black and purple furniture and abstract art. The effect is a little disjointed -- some furnishings feel dated and suburban, while the purple couches and high-backed black chairs could be found in a club or lounge. Although the decor doesn't quite gel, there's plenty of space to relax, and the modern paintings and fresh flowers in glass vases are nice touches -- likewise the glassed-in winter garden in the center of the room. The Hotel Premier has a small bar, of similar aesthetic to the lobby, as well. The hotel is quite popular with business travelers, but during the high-season (January to March), it lures many tourists, both Brazilians and foreigners.

The hotel is located on busy Tonelero Street, in the heart of Copacabana's commercial center. While generally more residential than other parts of the city, there are plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants dotting the surrounding streets. The hotel does not get any beach views, but it's only about a 10-minute walk to the water. Just a minute walk from the Siqueira Campos metro station, the hotel is convenient for those who want to explore the greater city, as well as enjoy the beach. Centro is about 45 minutes via public transport, while the Ipanema neighborhood is just over 10 minutes' ride. 

The Hotel Premier Copacabana has moderately sized, rather bland rooms decorated in white, gray, and beige hues -- a departure from the funkiness of the lobby. Wood laminate headboards, brown bed throws, and minimalist bedside lights lend an efficient, somewhat sterile aspect to the rooms. Bathrooms look less up-to-date and may show some wear, with sinks and walls tiled in varying shades of gray and black, and stall showers with tinted glass doors. Rooms come with free Wi-Fi (speed can be upgraded for a daily fee), flat-screen TVs with cable, safes, and minibars. There are also air-conditioners, but some guest complain about their noise during the night. Also, lower-level rooms may pick up street noise. 

The hotel has a beautiful, if petite, rooftop sun-deck with a small dipping pool, and black woven loungers. There's not a ton of space, but the views are quite nice, and it's a good place to relax and watch the sunset. There is a poolside bar, though it's rarely staffed, and a sign invites guests to call down for drinks using the provided phone. The hotel also has a small, but well-equipped fitness center on the roof, with windows offering stunning views of the city. There's also a small sauna/steam room with red mosaic tiling. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi and breakfast -- typically Brazilian, with eggs and croissants -- to all guests.