I have recommended many people to stay at Ipanema Plaza in the past, but I had never actually stayed there since I stay with friends when I am in Rio. Given I was in the city for work, I got a chance to spend the weekend at the hotel to check it out for myself.

With the Caribbean-like beach weather on Friday, it was the perfect place to be. The breakfast was superb (after a night of partying at 00), the views of the beach incredible, and the staff could not have been nicer. Add to that the fact that it took me less than 2 minutes to make it to the beach, and it is certainly one of the best alternatives for a week of leisure in Rio.

If you are heading to Rio anytime soon (Carnival is right around the corner), email G Brazil for special rates.

I have been getting lots of emails asking me about spending some time in Búzios around and after New Year's, so I thought I would present Pérola Búzios as an option (or perhaps a motivation factor). It was designed by renowned architect and artist Helio Pellegrino, and looks like a perfect place to enjoy a break from the cold in the Northern hemisphere.

Not only is it surrounded by beautiful beaches, the hotel is also located at walking distance from Rua das Pedras, which offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and designer boutiques to keep you entertained when you are not tanning, working out at the gym, or relaxing at the spa.

More information about the hotel and rates after the jump.

My friends Carlos and Luiz at Pousada Kalaluna in Trancoso are looking for an intern for the summer, and I thought I would spread the word since one of you may be interested.

Candidates must be available from December 1 to February 28, and preferably in between 18 and 25 years old. I guess I don't need to mention that you should be charismatic and responsible. Knowledge of a foreign language and some hotel background on your resume also help. Kalaluna offers housing and meals, as well as a comission.

To contact Luiz, and learn more about the internship at the inn, email him at [email protected].

If you are looking to relax on beautiful sunny beaches as opposed to partying in Rio for New Year's, then I suggest you give Trancoso a try.

Located in the south of Bahia, Trancoso is slowly becoming a major gay destination in the country with several gay-owned businesses and inns opening every year. Kalaluna is a relaxing B&B in the area owned by a Brazilian gay couple. Luiz and Carlos contacted me a few months ago, and they were so nice I am sure they would be great hosts.

Kalaluna offers 7 cute cottages at very reasonable rates, with full breakfast included. The inn is located close to the beach, and walking distance from the village. Click here to contact the owners.

My family in Brazil just got back from a long weekend at Praia do Forte Eco Resort in Bahia, and considering this is the second time they have been there in the last year, I thought I would suggest it here as a destination next time any of you plans to visit the country.

Knowing how demanding my dad is with hotels, I can assure you that the resort located an hour north of Salvador is one of your best bets if you choose to spend some time in Bahia. All rooms feature water views, there is an open gym facing the gardens, a spa, and lots of activities to keep you busy. All that, and the food (which is included) is supposed to be superb. I wish I would have been able to go with them this time, but I am sure that I will eventually check it out in person. More pics after the jump.