Rio de Janeiro spas are becoming more popular, and - while they tend to be pricey - they offer real treats for anybody looking to be pampered on their break in Rio. The spa rooms at top hotels Copacabana Palace , Fasano Rio and Hotel Santa Teresa offer luxurious spa and beauty treatments that will make you feel a million dollars, and both open their pristine white doors to non-guests as well as those lucky enough to be staying the night.
For those looking for pampering on a more modest budget, look no further than the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana, where massage chairs are set up, facing the ocean, and skilled masseurs work their magic on local and visiting beachgoers. Yogis will be in their element in Rio, with studios and classes held across the city, and many offering spa and well-being treatments as well as an opportunity to perfect your alignment or strike an impressive pose on the beach.
While Copacabana wins out as the most picture-perfect city beach in Rio, Ipanema is easily the more chic of the two neighboring stretches of sand. Less flanked by high rise hotels than its neighbor, Ipanema is the ideal place to while away the hours just working on that tan and watching the beautiful people glide by.
There are scores of kiosks selling tempting food and drink, too. The towering twin peaks of the Dois Irmaos two brothers mountains frames the beach scene in spectacular fashion, and visitors will find the beach informally divided into social groups. Head to Posto Nove Lifeguard post 9 for a young, hip crowd, or look for the giant rainbow flag if you're looking for gay-friendly sunbathing and socializing.
Recommended for Spas because : Massage chairs line the beachfront, offering a chance to relax and unwind against a backdrop of crashing waves and white sands. Lucy's expert tip : Rio's beaches are its social spaces - don't be afraid to try out your Portuguese if somebody catches your eye on the beach, just make sure they're not already accompanied before you try out your lines! For a truly luxurious experience in Rio, it's hard to beat the spa at Copacabana Palace.
