After a very long flight at opposite ends of the plane, it was a lovely surprise to check into the fabulous Rio Arcos Palace Hotel. We were expecting a fairly basic hotel as we are on a budget but instead have a view overlooking the Lapa District (one of the biggest party districts in Rio - especially in carnival!), a rooftop pool where we had our first (free) caipirinha (Brazil's national drink - lovely and refreshing but lethal! One is enough!) and 24 hour room...