If you've ever been to Paris, this building should look very familiar to you - it's like a small Paris Opera House and inspired by a Brazilian architect is the Opera House and he has done outstanding work. There are tours outside and inside, but if you're a music or ballet fan, check out to the United Nations Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Programme because it doesn't cost much to see a show and get a full experience, which I definitely recommend this hotel. Everything is a visual feast, from neo-art-style painted glass windows to crystal chandeliers, pink marbles and columns of marble stairs, and when you think you've learned everything about them, the chance to walk up the stairs and stumble across all the mosaic rooms will lead you to the ultimate surprise - huge Egyptian basement (non-working) walls with fountains. The Sphinx has had a drink in a bar between the house and the present one. This place is a pearl and must be seen if you are in Rio!