Stayed in Marcio's apartment for three weeks including Carnaval.

Marcio was a great host. Helped me get settled in, made sure I had all the info I needed and even walked around with me for several hours helping me find a chip for my iPhone… would have taken me a whole day, easily, on my own.

The place is located literally 75 meters from Escadaria Selaron and right in the heart of Lapa. Now depending on what kind of holiday you are looking for this is good or bad. Walk out the door and you are 5 minutes from the bars and restaurants of Lapa and of it's nightlife… especially on weekends it gets quite busy. Surprisingly quiet in view of the fact that the hustle and bustle is a few hundred meters away. Only problem was that darn dog barking across the street on a regular basis. But dogs are everywhere in Rio. I just had ear plugs and used them when necessary (carnaval is a noisy time no matter where you are)

The place is plenty fine for 2 people, four would be crowded. It was clean, though spartan. The bathroom is plenty big with a big shower. The kitchen is very small, but totally fine for prepping breakfast. Would be hard to cook a full meal unless you were accustomed to such a kitchen.

Bed was comfortable (and a decent bed is central to a good holiday for me) and I slept great. no air con but a good fan over the bed. Goon wifi in the place, always worked.

If you are going to Rio know exactly what you want in accommodation. If you stay somewhere central with easy access to the city, metro, etc… it will be nosier… if you want quiet, you'll probably need to get a cab to and from your accom…. or plan to walk a lot (not fun at 4am after partying)

marcio was helpful and unobtrusive but there if and when you needed him.