Staying with Marcello, Isabel and their dogs was a very pleasant experience. They were very flexible about the hour of my arrival. I had nice chats with Marcello in the pool and Isabel would often ask if everything was alright. The apartment is very light and clean, but since the bathroom (you feel as if you are taking a shower in the atlantic rainforest) has an open roof construction I advice those who are afraid of insects or lizards to keep the bathroom door closed at all time. In the kitchen I think I even spotted a mini oven And the fridge was stuffed with food And beverages (original Brazilian beer, pop And marmelade.
From Gloria you easily get on the Subway to the beaches (copacabana And ipanema), quaints Santa teresa And lapa are in walking distance. The city AirPort Santos dumont is also in the vicinity. A very good location from where to explore Rio, although you have to be up for a 10 minute walk uphill from Gloria.