Depending on their location, Rio's motels can throw up some interesting surprises, and we don't just mean scary ones when you open the wardrobe or pull back the sheets. Forget the dubious-looking monstrosities lining the further reaches of Avenida Brasil and head instead to the rather more enticing and decadent options to the south, where the king of them all, VIPs is to be found. Up a steep drive (and straight into the parking lot) off Avenida Niemeyer between Leblon and São Conrado a huge variety of suites can be found from the very basic bed-and-television (don't expect to find CNN, this is purely another titillation tool) Apartmento Luxo, to huge duplex efforts like the Freedom Suite, complete with private swimming pools, saunas and incredible views out to sea.

While the majority of the guests are probably likely to want to whisk in and out under the cover of darkness, VIPs is just as popular with couples looking for a sauce-filled escape, with the permitted stay usually six to eight hours. And then, of course, there are the footballers. A certain diminutive former centre forward for the national team has allegedly hosted huge 'gatherings' in the Milennium Suite, the three-floor showpiece of pools, jacuzzis, saunas and sex chairs that has to be seen to be believed. As different a slice of carioca culture as you are likely to (want to) find.

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