Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group has unveiled today the addition of the Radisson Hotel Rio de Janeiro and the Radisson Hotel São Paulo Vila Olimpia, opening in Brazil during the first quarter of 2014. The addition of the two hotels will elevate the group’s status as the largest international upscale operator in the country with 10 hotels and more than 1,800 rooms in operation.

“As a company that has developed in emerging markets for decades, we are thrilled to see that our long standing partnership with Atlantica Hotels International has allowed us to grow in Brazil and it is with their unwavering support that we are able to be the leader in the country,” said Thorsten Kirschke, president, Americas, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. “As the fifth largest country in the world, it is with great pride that we work to elevate the hospitality community in Brazil by developing a consistent, service driven and responsible product to those in Latin America and beyond.”

Opening in January 2014 will be the Radisson Hotel Rio de Janeiro, a luxury beachfront property of 292 guestrooms and suites. The hotel, ideally located in the Barra region of Rio de Janeiro, will be complemented by a spa, two bars, gym, squash court and heated pool, as well as over 11,000 square feet of dynamic meeting space.

Shortly following will be the Radisson Hotel São Paulo Vila Olimpia, located in the southern part São Paulo. Formerly the Park Suites ITC Faria Lima, the $3.5 million dollar investment into the conversion will result in a graciously appointed property with all Radisson standards including the Yes I Can! SM spirit of service; high-speed Internet; business class and express checkout. The addition of the hotel will solidify Radisson as the top upscale brand in the country.

“Over the past decade, our partnership with the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group has helped define the standard for upscale hotels in Brazil,” states Paul Sistare, chief executive officer and president of Atlantica Hotels International. “As the brand continues to grow in Latin America, our united front will only allow us to maintain Radisson’s status as the leading upscale international brand in our country.”

The two join the recently opened Radisson Porto Alegre, Brazil as well as established properties Radisson Hotel Aracjau; Radisson Hotel Maceio; Radisson Hotel Curitiba; Radisson Hotel Belem, Radisson Hotel Alphaville, Radisson Hotel São Paulo Faria Lima and Park Suites Manaus.

The milestone achievement and the continued growth in the country support Carlson Rezidor’s Ambition 2015 global growth strategy. With a mission to deliver a globally consistent, first class brand in established and emerging markets, the future looks strong for the hotel group with new Brazil openings that include the Radisson Goiânia in 2016 and the Radisson Guarajuba in 2018.