This stay was booked with Marcio and Claudio last minute on a spare of the moment weekend trip to Rio pre-world cup... I read the previous reviews on air BnB so jumped and booked their available room...
I cannot believe how amazing my stay with Marcio and Claudio was. One word to describe these guys is "Alive". When I think of happiness, I think of Marcio and Claudio and the way they treat you. Very respectful, very friendly and excellent hosts. They made my quick getaway seem like a month stay. The moment I stepped into their apartment, I felt right at home.
Once in the apartment, introductions to Apoteose and Raposo, the two beautiful cats. They won’t get in your way and Raposo warmed up to me fast (I am a cat owner myself). Apoteose is the true owner of the house LOL. If you are a cat person you will totally understand this.
The guys welcomed me with Passion fruit and Mandarin orange caipirihnas... which at this point I think Claudio's Caipirihnas are becoming a legend… see all the reviews LOL! Flawless drinks my friends!
Since I am from the Caribbean, the beach is not my top priority, so I ended going with Marcio and Claudio for Brazilian food, Feijoada and hanging out like a local with them, in an area of downtown Rio that was very lovely.
Also, the directions for Corcovado, Maracana stadium, and other tourist attractions were easy to follow.
Rio is a happy and vibrant city, and their home is perfectly situated to experience the world-renowned beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. In fact, 3 small blocks to Copacabana Beach! They are also located a 5 minute walk to the Metro station. Everything worked flawlessly: communication, ease of check-in, etc. I ended up using their bikes to go to the beach and just riding along Copacabana... Rio is super friendly for bikes.
They bed was exquisitely arranged with a little welcome candy and some Brazilian fine toiletries, just like if I was checking in into a five stars.
And last but not least, the breakfast. OMG! OK, I am going to repeat this: OMG! Exquisitely arranged table with fresh mangos and papaya, fresh coconut water chilled served in the coconut, yogurt, granola, selection of ham and cheeses, freshly baked baguettes, tea, a fluffy cheese omelette, jello, real butter and local jellies. I wish I could post a picture! I am a foodie so this was a First Class breakfast.
For my return to Galeao Airport, the guys arranged for a taxi pick up at their apartment at a flat rate, which was extremely convenient.
All and all, this place is a true hidden gem in Rio. It feels that I have known Marcio and Claudio all my life and I just met them, and this is the kind of people they are: genuinely good people.