Rio de Janeiro in early January

[Robino]

I'm planning a trip to Rio during the first 10 days of January. My main concern is the sleeping options. I have the Lonely Planet but I'd like to know if you have some tips in the "budget" range. Hostels are a posibilty as long as they offer private rooms for two.

If you have some insights on any other interesting things in Rio (we're thinking spending one or two nights Ilha Grande) I'm all ears.

Thanks.

 

[irishvan]

I spent a week in rio in september and stayed in 4 different hostels.
I just used hostel bookers and take the reviews with a large grain of salt.
On the dates you mention it is going to be very expensive and a lot of the hostels do a new year package.
One I stayed at in ipanema was the mango tree which was highly recommended but I felt was overrated.
I cant help you with the sights as I went to assess whether I wanted to move there or not, so spent most of the time just wandering around getting a feel for the place.
If you pm me we can get in contact and I will explain more.

 

[Big_m]

We went in Jan last year and stayed at Windsor Excelsior based on Trip Advisor reviews. Was excellent value for money.

http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_...l-Rio_de_Janeiro_State_of_Rio_de_Janeiro.html

 

[dutara]

Don't know if you're aware of it, but the NYE celebration in Rio rivals Carneval, and as mentioned above just about every accommodation involves a multi-day package deal, and it won't be cheap.

Also, as in Argentina, NYE kicks off the summer holiday season.