Maria's place is very nice, big windows. a nice kitchen, comfortable bed with plenty of towels and linen for a long stay. Flamengo is a bit out of the way from Copacabana and ipanema, but staying in flamengo is nice. there is a beach literally across the street from the apartment so, no need to travel to copa, not unless you just want to. i would also like to add that she does have adapters for plugging up US electronics so if you dont have adapter's, dont worry. there are bars next door. its about 5 minutes from Botofogo shopping center. there are two markets, and a pharmacy around the corner, so everything you need is right here There was a slight wing-pest problem, but none the less, i do recommend a stay at marias place.