The Fasano family's first hotel in São Paulo set a new standard for understated luxury and gastronomic excellence in Brazil when it opened in 2003; its second outpost has just opened in Rio de Janeiro, on Ipanema Beach.

The Philippe Starck-designed Fasano Rio is inspired by the city's modernist heritage, although its sleek, contemporary-retro feel is a far cry from Roberto Burle Marx's vivacious 1960s pavements on nearby Copacabana beach. Furniture comes from Brazilian modernist designers such as Oscar Niemeyer and Sérgio Rodrigues.

The 82 Rooms offer courtyard and ocean views, while the seven Suites and three Deluxe Suites offer panoramic views over the coastline.

Rooms offer king-size beds, high speed internet, workstations, and satellite TVs with 32” plasma screens. Suites offer king-size beds, spacious terraces, sitting areas, wireless internet, jacuzzis and 32” plasma TVs.

The hotel has a penthouse swimming pool with Atlantic views, an Italian seafood restaurant, Fasano al Mare, and bar, Londra, both of which are set to become local hotspots.

Rate: From USD 470.00pn + tax