The highly-anticipated 225-room AC Hotel Rio de Janeiro Porto Maravilha and the 378-room AC Hotel Rio de Janeiro Barra da Tijuca, have opened their doors, inviting guests to experience Brazil’s newest class of lifestyle hotels. AC Hotels by Marriott celebrates the beauty of classic modern design with its European soul and Spanish roots, borne from the signature vision of renowned hotelier Antonio Catalan, who founded the brand in 1998.Marriott International formed a joint-venture with the successful brand in 2011 and has since launched AC Hotels by Marriott globally in France, Denmark, the United States, Mexico and now Brazil.

The two Rio openings debut the brand in Brazil following a successful launch in Latin America with openings in Guadalajara and Queretaro Antea, Mexico. Later this year, AC Hotels by Marriott is scheduled to expand its portfolio with hotels in Mexico City (Mexico), Panama City (Panama), and Santiago (Chile).

“We are thrilled to be bringing this new class of lifestyle hotel to two of Rio de Janeiro’s most dynamic neighborhoods – Porto Maravilha and Barra da Tijuca,” explains Toni Stoeckl, Vice President of Lifestyle Brands at Marriott International. “Our rapidly growing portfolio of design-led hotels illustrates Marriott International’s commitment to making distinctive architecture and design affordable and accessible for creatives and entrepreneurs around the world.”

Based on a belief that purposeful design improves lives, AC Hotels carves away what is unnecessary, in order to provide guests with thoughtfully designed moments of beauty; experiences that elevate their stay and help them focus on what is important to them. AC Hotel guests get only what they need, without paying for what they don’t. The result is sophisticated yet unpretentious style, innovative beverage and food programming with locally inspired experiences for both guests and locals.

“Rio de Janeiro is certainly one of South America’s most vibrant cities with a thriving art scene and energetic urban culture,” said Tim Sheldon, President of the Caribbean and Latin America at Marriott International. “With the recent opening of the Museu do Amanhã and the investment by the private sector and government in Porto Maravilha, we feel the AC Hotels brand will fit perfectly with the neighborhood’s revival. The AC Hotel Barra da Tijuca is centrally located in Barra and an excellent destination for next-generation travelers expected to visit the 2016 Summer Games in August.”

Signature Design AC Hotels by Marriott is designed for creative, entrepreneurial spirits who are constantly on the go and appreciate the oasis of a well-designed hotel that allows them to welcome moments of tranquility, be present and connect with others. Influenced by its European roots, the AC Hotel Rio de Janeiro Porto Maravilha and the AC Hotel Rio de Janeiro Barra da Tijuca showcase timeless design that is modern and sleek. Guest rooms incorporate inviting grays and charcoal tones, with clean lines accentuated by and wood floors; furniture is lifted off the floor to create a sense of space, and crisp white linens are used to create a look that is both refined and elegant.

Beverage and Food Programming A signature element of the hotel includes an innovative beverage and food program within its AC Lounge. A twist on the traditional hotel bar, the experience includes local craft beers, specialty wines on tap, expertly made signature cocktails and a selection of tapas-style small bites.

Located adjacent to the AC Lounge, the AC Kitchen serves a European-inspired Continental breakfast selection of flaky croissants, freshly-sliced artisanal LaQuercia Prosciutto, savory egg tarts, and Nespresso coffee.

Additional Amenities The AC Hotel Rio de Janeiro Porto Maravilha offers a state-of-the-art gym and a rooftop pool with stunning views of Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Mountain, peaceful Guanabara Bay and legendary Maracana Stadium. The AC Hotel Rio de Janeiro Barra da Tijuca features an equally spectacular rooftop pool and deck with views of Rio de Janeiro’s East Zone.

Both hotels’ AC Library and Lounge areas invite travelers to relax in chic surroundings, while creating an effortless space in which to conduct a business meeting or connect with friends over cocktails. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available to work, connect, explore and socialize. Seamless service is enhanced with Kallpods – wireless service buttons – that are located in the public and meeting spaces, enabling guests to request a staff member’s attention immediately.

To learn more about AC Hotel Rio de Janeiro Porto Maravilha, please visit: http://achotels.marriott.com/hotels/ac-hotel-porto-maravilha

To learn more about AC Hotel Rio de Janeiro Barra da Tijuca, please visit: http://achotels.marriott.com/hotels/ac-hotel-barra-de-tijuca