Porcâo - Ipanema

UTTER GLUTTONY!!! This is a MUST if you go to Brazil. Brazil is famous for it's Churrascerias (meat buffets) and it was one of the most hilarious and fun things me and my friend did there. Each person at a table gets a little card that on one side is red and says "Stop" and on the other side is green and says "Go." When you have the "Go" side facing up, the waiters bombard you with various cuts of meat. They come around and just cut all different cuts and types of AMAZINGLY delicious meats onto your plate. When your gut is about to explode, you turn the card over to the "Stop" side. Locals told us that Porcâo is the best Churrasceria chain in Brazil. The waiters are very classy and dressed formal, but the customers come casually (and I suggest pants with a stretchy waistline). Also, the entire staff spoke English which was pretty uncommon in Ipanema.

The staff at the Mar Ipanema Hotel was absolutely exceptional. Any needs or questions you had they would handle immediately. They have a wonderful restaraunt downstairs called Maddellena's where the food is amazing. The location is two short blocks from Ipanema Beach and is surrounded by streets lined with shops and great food. The location is very safe; I went with just one other girl and we never felt threatened in any way. The area is very classy and beautiful. The rooms are nice but not extravagant; this hotel is a great choice for traveler's who want comfortable, clean, and safe accomodations but would rather spend most of their money on their experiences than on having a king sized bed. I definitely recommend this hotel to anyone traveling to Brazil, check out the hotel's website for more information and pictures.