A little out of the action, La Suite's elegant lodgings are nonetheless well worth the taxi rides in and out to the nightlife of Ipanema and Leblon. The seven rooms, named after the colour they are decorated in, all have marble bathrooms in matching hues and have been decorated by host François-Xavier Dussol. A favourite of fashion magazines and fashionistas the world over, the atmosphere and welcome remain warm and François and partner Rodrigo's enthusiastically-delivered local knowledge is invaluable to the Rio novice. An excellent chef helps the hidden dining room balance the extravagant living room as the building's heart, whilst the addition of an infinity pool on the edge of the cliffs of Joatinga has completed the experience of a true getaway within the city.

• Featured in Time Out Rio's 15 Coolest Places to Stay