As host Phillip was very kind, even though we did not meet him personally. He always replied my emails very quick. We stayed 5 nights in mid August at his Copacabana apartment.

THE GOOD: The location is wonderful, just by the beach and with restaurants, shops, souvenir places, markets, internet cafe, coin laundry etc, very close by. It is a short walk from Copacabana Fort and Ipanema beach. The bus stop is just downstairs.

The apartment is well equipped, with two AC, a well- designed kitchenette and a charming high table.

THE BAD: Because there were 3 of us (two adults and a toddler) we found the place to be darker and smaller than expected, particularly the shower and the bathroom. Also, the sliding door that separates the bathroom from the rest of the space did not slide, so there was little room for privacy.

The sofa bed was hard and dusty and we were not provided with sheets for it until the third night (despite we made the requirement upon arrival). Besides, the noise from the street and the construction next door made difficult sleeping.