Surely the most famous hotel in South America, the Palace elegantly lords over Copacabana beach, an oasis of class in a neighbourhood not always renowned for such dignity. From top to bottom the whole operation exudes luxury, epitomised by the gorgeous poolside bar and the stately interiors of the rooms, not to mention the stucco façade that by night looks like the stuff of gently-lit fairytales. The illustrious roll call of guests and accompanying anecdotes range from the great (Ava Gardner trashing her room after breaking up with Sinatra) to the predictable (Mick Jagger and co's poolside hijinks after the 2006 free gig on the beach opposite). The black and white photographs of the true a-list visitors since the opening in 1923 that adorn the hallway also help put your visit into perspective.

Rooms are regularly updated but many have maintained the original sumptuous mahogany wood fittings and feature the kind of unnecessarily high ceilings that true luxury demands. A rooftop tennis court, stunning swimming pool and beach-side service for those able to drag themselves out of their comfort zone complete the package. The poolside, Piano and Copa bars are well worth a visit for an early evening cocktail or splurge on the Sunday brunch buffet, a lavish affair (not included in the room price), if the nightly rates are out of reach.