Rafael' place is amazing- a huge apartment with large bedrooms, very stylishly decorated. The location is great as you are close to lots of restaurants, banks and most importantly the wonderful Ipanema beach!
The best part of this stay is Rafael's parents (Lourdes & Dionizio). They make you feel like a member of the family, nothing is too much trouble for them. They go out of their way to provide a wonderful breakfast each morning and really encourage you to explore the city of Rio, with lots of tips and suggestions on what to see. Lourdes was especially kind as she helped me with an ankle injury on the day of my checkout!
Thank you Lourdes, Dionizio & Rafael! I will stay again on my next trip to Rio!