Ipanema Plaza is in a great neighbourhood, close to bars and restaurants. During our 4 days here, we felt safe walking around both during the day and night. The beach is less than 2 mins away and the main shopping street around 5 mins.
The hotel however, was a real disappointment, our room, superior class with beach view, was tiny and the bathroom old and shoddy. The service from the front desk abysmal, the aircon in our room was broken, and the front desk were not interested in resolving the problem until the next day. We used the laundry service, and had to do all the chasing when clothes belonging to other guests arrived instead.
Our stay in Ipanema was part of our four-centre honeymoon (Fernando De Noronha, Rio, Foz Do Iguacu, Parity) , and hence we chose to stay in four star plus hotels as this was to be a trip of a lifetime, we were very disappointed that our stay in Rio was the poorest of our time in Brazil

My husband and I stayed at Ipanema Plaza for 4 nights at the end of our honeymoon. I was slightly nervous about going to Rio as everyone tries to freak you out about how dangerous it is. The moment we arrived in Ipanema, my nerves were calmed. Once we got to the hotel, I knew we had chosen wisely.

First of all, the location couldn't be better. You are a block away from the beach and you are in the heart of great restaurants, shopping and bars in Ipanema. There are a lot of great places in Leblon too which are within walking distance. You can definitely walk around the neighborhood safely - just be cautious as in any big city. We went to Copacabana during the day and walked, but when we went at night, we took cabs both ways.

The room we had was a really good size (in comparison to American hotels as well) and we had a room with a balcony, which was huge. We were really happy with the cleanliness of the room and the bathroom. Maybe other rooms were different then ours, but I didn't think there was anything even remotely dirty about the room.

The staff was great. They speak English (and it seemed like many other languages as well) and were always helpful with our requests. Maybe we're not high-maintenance guests, but I didn't ever feel as though they were put off by us or unwilling to help.

I would definitely stay here again.

Good high standing hotel, close to the beach. Friendly staff at the front desk.

Very good japanese restaurant.

Stayed here with my girlfriend for a romantic weekend. Expat living in Brazil. Have also stayed at the Best Western in Ipanema (which isn't as good).

If you're not familiar with hotels in Brazil and Rio, then you should know that hotels in Brazil do not compare to Europe/N America. Rio is particularly expensive, especially if you want to be near to the beach. Expect to pay at least $200 dollars a night for a good hotel, and much more for a great hotel. There's a common perception that Brazil is a cheap country - it's not. Sure, you can do things dirt cheap (food , drink, accommodation), however, not if you want to have a decent standard (or risk your health/safety)!

Rooms: Our room was a good size and modern. Air conditioning worked well (important in Rio!!). Two beds were put together to make a massive bed. Some people have complained about this, however, we didn't find the slight gap in the middle a problem. Bathroom was decent.

Service: Again, some people have complained about the service, however, I found it fine. Also got a free drink when we checked in, so can't complain. Always, always, always negotiate with cabs. Unfortunately Brazil is one of those places where foreigners will be taken for a ride (even if you speak the language). However, arranging services from the hotel is likely to be more reliable/safe than from the street... bear that in mind.

Facilities: Rooftop pool is nice (and much bigger than the Best Western's), however, again... manage your expectations... rooftop pools in Rio are small!!

Food and drink: Breakfast buffet is above average as far as Brazil goes. Had dinner at the restaurant (had a 20% discount voucher). Decent meal.

Location: Great location. Ipanema is relatively safe (much better than Copacabana), and between Leblon and Copacabana (which is within walking distance). Lots of decent bars and restaurants with in (a safe) walking distance.