I loved my stay in Jose's beautiful little apartment in Ipanema. It is frankly of much higher quality than some 5-star hotels that I've stayed in, in Brazil. It is clean and well kept, there is fresh drinking water available all the time, there is gas-heated water. The location of the apartment is fantastic, about a block away from the beach and also a block away from the main strip. Noise-reducing windows significantly diminish the sound coming from the street. The area was very safe (but it is always good to be careful in Brazil) and the team was very responsive, friendly and helpful. I was very sad to have to leave! I hope to return again soon.