Short-term rental and vacation booking

For accommodation near Guarulhos Airport (GRU) in São Paulo, Brazil, the Mercury IBIS is a recommended option. It provides a complimentary shuttle service from the airport, which can be found at platform 3 according to its schedule and does not require pre-booking. Breakfast is included and offers variety. The shuttle service from the hotel to the airport incurs a fee of 13 BRL per person.

In Rio de Janeiro, few 5-star hotels genuinely meet international 5-star standards, with Copacabana Palace often cited as an exception. Hilton Copacabana receives mixed reviews regarding its 5-star rating. Sheraton is controversial: some criticize its dated condition, proximity to favelas, and 'Soviet-style' pool, suggesting Laghetto Lifestyle as an alternative. Others praise Sheraton's pool, breakfast, lounge amenities, and comfortable beds. Fairmont is also recommended. General advice suggests managing expectations and focusing on enjoying the city's atmosphere over strict hotel standards.

For short-term apartment rentals in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, common platforms and options include Olx (a classifieds website) and searching for 'pousadas' (guesthouses/inns) on Booking.com.

For long-term stays in Rio de Janeiro (e.g., three months during the December-February period), it is advisable to book accommodation well in advance, potentially up to a year ahead, as options, especially near beaches, can become limited. Check booking platforms like Booking.com for availability and pricing trends. Mobile internet can typically be purchased at the airport upon arrival.

New Year's Eve in Brazil (especially Rio de Janeiro) causes extreme price hikes for accommodation and heavy crowds. Book accommodation (preferably in Ipanema or nearby) months in advance. A local 'mini-carnival' with street parties takes place in Rio's Centro around January 5th.

Recommended hotels in Rio de Janeiro (Copacabana area): Windsor Palace, Windsor Martinique, Mercure, Pestana (noted for rooftop pool/view), Augusto’s Rio Copa (budget, location not ideal for beach). For a quieter atmosphere, consider Leblon district. Note: Hotel quality in Brazil can be inconsistent; Airbnb is a common alternative.

When booking long-term accommodation on Airbnb in Brazil, the platform displays the total price breakdown by month. Users should note that 'monthly' rates include discounts for long-term stays, and the displayed amount is typically a per-month cost, not the total for the entire duration of the rental.

For extended stays in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, hostels are a viable accommodation option. While specific recommendations require further detail, hostels generally offer a budget-friendly and social environment for travelers.

For accommodation in Rio de Janeiro, a user recommends Windsor Matinique hotel on Copacabana beach. It's described as a solid 3-star hotel with an excellent location: 3 minutes walk to Copacabana beach, 10 minutes walk to Ipanema beach. Numerous cafes and shops are available nearby.

Accommodation costs in Rio de Janeiro, particularly in Copacabana, increase by 300-400% during peak seasons (New Year's, Carnival) compared to off-peak or advance bookings. Booking at least 6 months in advance is recommended to avoid significant price hikes.

For extended stays in Brazil (up to 90 days), travelers should consider booking accommodation for the entire duration to comply with potential immigration requirements. Booking a return flight and ensuring accommodation for the full period is advisable to avoid issues with airlines or immigration authorities. Utilizing options like Airbnb for longer stays can be cost-effective, but all documentation should be in order.

When booking hotels in Rio de Janeiro, be aware that reviews, even for 5-star establishments, sometimes mention issues with pests such as bedbugs. Thoroughly check recent reviews and photos to make an informed decision about accommodation.

For short-term apartment rentals in Rio de Janeiro (e.g., 3 weeks to several months), Airbnb and Booking.com are primary platforms as other sites focus on long-term leases. Prices can be high, but direct negotiation with owners via these platforms or Facebook is recommended, especially during the less touristy "winter" season, potentially reducing rates by 1.5-2 times. Be aware that pet-friendly accommodations (including hotels) often charge an additional fee, typically 50-80 BRL per day.

For scooter and motorcycle rentals in Florianopolis, and for accommodation options beyond Airbnb, explore user-submitted listings available through this resource. It may offer alternative rental and housing solutions.

For budget-friendly and convenient accommodation in Foz do Iguaçu for visiting Iguazu Falls, consider 'Hotel Coroados Foz Express'. It is located approximately 20-30 minutes by taxi from the Bird Park (near Iguazu National Park) and has nearby dining options and a grocery store. The hotel offers clean, spacious rooms and decent breakfasts. 'Manacá Hotel' is another option that has been booked by a user. Both are considered good value for a two-day visit.