Hotel Grand Mercure di Rio De Janeiro

What does it feel like when you come back home, where everyone knows your name, is always available for whatever queries and needs and where you feel you belong? After many stays at Grand Mercure, prior to and during the revamping, this is indeed home for me! A taxi from Santos Dumont airport takes some 20-25min and costs less than 50 reais. Don't accept to pay more than 100 reais taking a taxi from the international airport, there are many crooks there! On the metre and with no traffic, the ride shall be around 80 reais; on weekdays and before 9, heavy traffic into town may raise the cost. Bear in mind that only in Rio taxis are allowed to charge per item of luggage, 3 reais a piece. Also, make sure to inform the driver that the entrance is at Souza Lima 48 (side street), not at Atlântica. The hotel consists of three blocks, B and C are ready and A, the one with frontal view, is to be inaugurated in less than a year's time, so we hope! That's where the pool is, on the top floor, that's why the hotel doesn't offer one for the moment, but the beach service is available at no cost. A ramp for wheelchairs and to roll luggage is missing but that is the only con in the ample and welcoming reception. Felipe, Lucas, Ellen and Patrícia do a splendid job there, always with a genuine smile and readiness to any guests' needs. There are different room categories, each found in one block or the other an each with their specificities - make sure to read the details properly and choose the one which suits you, to avoid useless discussions at front desk. The hotel is constantly full, therefore changes aren't as simple and one must stick to what was chosen and booked! The higher in block C, the better, and make sure to get a room with an even ending, so you can wake up with the most magnificent sunset! Rooms are welcoming and spacious but I still miss an armchair and a better working table; having to shift furniture every time is annoying, the interior designer didn't really take that into account. Amenities are of good quality, water heats up quickly (no waste), the shower is powerful enough. Internet works everywhere, including in the smoking zone on the sidewalk. By the way, why not have a tap outdoors, so beachgoers can wash the sand off their feet before entering reception? Breakfast is improvised on the 2nd floor as a result of the build work, one needs to have understanding. In terms of variety, it is indeed plentiful there, with juices, hot dishes, cakes/breads, cheeses, cold cuts and a specific corner for those with some restriction. Danielle, Ana Luz and Nilson shall pamper you with a smile al the time! Banks, supermarkets, shops of all kinds, chemist's, restaurants and all sort of facilities are within walking distance; also you can take the bus to most attractions, the nearest tube station is some 10min away. Last but not least, Maíra and Rodrigo spread attentiveness and generosity, one can always count on them! What else should I say: it's so grand t