Vila Galé Rio de Janeiro

Open since December 2014, this hotel is housed in a restored 19th-century palace and two newly constructed towers. Combining old and new, the charming and elegant decor was inspired by Brazilian musical genres and Portuguese-Brazilian culture. The newer glass and concrete towers are nothing special, but the palace shows historic detailing, such as wrought-iron railings, ornate molding, and a pink exterior and interior, creating a romantic, laid-back vibe. This is one of the nicer outposts in the Vila Gale chain, and even with the Old-World atmosphere in parts of the hotel, it's a pleasantly modern place on the whole. The hotel caters to both business and leisure guests who want to stay in the hip Lapa district and don't mind being removed from Rio's beach scene. 

This Vila Gale is located in the hip, bohemian Lapa district, in the Centro of Rio de Janeiro famous for its vibrant weekend nightlife. The lively area is packed with music bars, restaurants, cafes, and shops, and young people and students flock to it on the weekends. Lapa is a good base for those who want to experience downtown Rio: the nightlife, the museums, the small bars, and restaurants. It's less touristy than Copacabana or Ipanema, but for some, it may be a bit far from the beach scene, which is about 30 minutes away by car or metro. Guests can walk from the hotel to the famed Escadaria Selaron landmark in 10 minutes. The closest metro station is about a 15-minute walk from the hotel. Lapa does have some security issues, and travelers should be cautious -- especially at night. Plan on a 20-minute drive to reach the domestic Santos Dumont Airport, or about 30 minutes by public transportation. The international airport is about 25 minutes away by car or an hour by public transportation. 

Rooms and suites are located in the restored 19th-century palace and newer annexes, where the more modern rooms are housed. All of these more modern rooms are attractively decorated, with hardwood floors, wooden furniture, and neutral beige color schemes with bold accents. Details like tufted headboards add even more class to the look. Small bathrooms in these units have granite countertops, toiletries, showers, hairdryers, and magnifying mirrors. Standard amenities across all buildings include flat-screen TVs, minibars, air-conditioning, safes, and free Wi-Fi (though it's limited to two devices). There are no tea- or coffeemakers, though it's a rare Rio hotel that has these. Suites are larger and have separate sitting areas. Rooms in the old palace are more elegant, with plush drapery and bed runners, and period chairs upholstered in velvet. Ornate gold-framed artwork hangs on the walls. Bathrooms add bidets and claw-foot tubs plus double sinks. Some suites have tiny French balconies with views of the street. 

This hotel is equipped to serve both business and leisure travelers. The main restaurant serves buffets for all meals, including hot and cold breakfast selections such as cooked-to-order omelets -- the sparkling wine is an additional (and welcome) perk. Breakfast is included in some rates. The Inevitable Restaurant serves Mediterranean fare for dinner only. Vinicius de Morais bar, in the palace, pays homage to the Brazilian poet and musician with vintage decorative items. It serves drinks and light fare in a space packed with velvet and leather seating. Live piano music plays some nights. There's also a bar by the pool. Room service is available around-the-clock. 

Situated in the central courtyard, the large outdoor rectangular pool is suitable for swimming laps, and there are plenty of lounge chairs lined up on each side. Red umbrellas provide shade, as do the buildings in the afternoon. There are no views. The fitness center is small, but the cardio machines are modern. Satsanga Spa offers massage rooms, a whirlpool, and a Turkish bath. 

Six meeting spaces are found in the newer annex, and they all have windows for natural light. The largest space can accommodate up to 290 people for receptions. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, and parking is available for a fee.