I stayed at the Clarion back in February... the one on Tiradentes.
Very nice room, decent breakfast in the price. Cost about $150 a night weekdays & $100 weeknights.
Intercontinental on the Malecon is about the same price range & a better hotel in my opinion.
Also stayed at the Bella Vista Hotel this past week for $45 a night.
Let's just say you get what you pay for.
