Unless you are desperate to be right in the urban centers of Copacabana, Ipanema, Botafogo, Centro etc., which are either mostly dull or dangerous at night and on weekends, Urca is THE place to stay if you're looking for safety and character. And Eduardo's place is absolutely awesome! The unit is tiny, with curtains separating the A/C room with the (comfortable) queen-sized bed from a mini-kitchenette and mini-bathroom. But you're in Rio, so you'll be staying outside anyway.
Very clean, on a safe residential street below the Pao de Acucar, just a few minutes walk to the beautiful views over the bay, the Cristo-Rei, and the super-happening Bar da Urca, with delicious snacks and drinks. Eduardo responded immediately to all our requests and given our early morning arrival kindly even offered that night to us. Maravilha!