Moon Lounge - JW Marriott Rio de Janeiro

Very Underwhelming. May be bad luck, from the first point of contact so disappointing until departure. Check in was a mess. We received free drink vouchers in which we chose wine at the bar. We mostly this wine in our home and was not of usual taste. We were “showed-up” by the manager of the bar, only after his dramatic role how ignorant we were about wine....after the show of swirling, sniffing, tasting he did eventually lean in our favor, but barely. Did I mention we own a chain of liquor stores with a sommelier on sight 75% of the time. He wins.

Moon lounge Food Truck The views from this lounge were incredible! This lounge is on the rooftop at the JW Marriott in Rio. Quite surprised to see that they have a food truck, swimming pool, spa the lounge with killer views. I couldn’t believe the size of the passion fruit so of course I had to have a passion fruit Caipirinha. The FIRST one was so good I had to have another, and I think I had one more, lol. I WOULD recommend, I will, go back!

Lamb wraps were so good I went back twice. Views overlook the strip.

For those Marriott purists like myself, there is very limited options in Rio, and only 1 option on Copacabana (I'll probably end up trying the Sheraton on Ipanama next time but the JW is more centrally located). 30 min ride from the airport is pretty quick, as well as 10-20 min to most key destination. Also plenty of good dining options nearby. The JW itself is nothing to write home about - the lobby is decent, though doesn't feel 5-star or luxury as you'll see in asian resorts or the newer nicer US ones. Plenty of seating (though not super comfortable) and a small bar. There's a small check-in area with friendly and informative staff - check-in was quick and painless like how you expect. The concierge was one of the highlights, very informative, patient, and will help you book attractions and reserve restaurants. Definitely talk to him before you go anywhere. We had a room right below the club lounge facing the ocean. The room itself was ok size, not tiny but can be more spacious for longer stays. The one small chair doesn't really do it for furniture. Tiny TV (though there was a decent amount of English channels so that's a plus. Bathroom is ok size, can be a bit bigger and more luxurious. The oceanview is great though, definitely want one of those if you can get it. Sweeping views of the beach (that has people in it at all hours). The Rooftop gym is super nice and empty, definitely recommend checking it out. The views up top are great, though the windows make it difficult for a good picture. Small bar and food truck (Seriously, how did that get up there) to provide drinks and food for those staying a while. There are a few comfortable cabanas for relaxing. The pool itself is nothing great to speak of, it's heated but off to the side so you really don't have a view of anything. The Hyatt seems amazing at the end of Copacabana, will definitely want to try that in the future some day.

The service was very slow and the best highest part of the roof top is not accessible. The glass railing is tinted, so you can't see through it. It misses the mark is too many ways.