I don't think it is possible to have a better and nicer host than Silvia! She met us personally at the apartment and made sure that we knew where everything was and that all of our questions were answered. She also went above and beyond the call of duty in personally taking me to a nearby gym and making sure I could work out there. The location of the apartment is great with very easy access to Ipanema and Copacabana beaches and a ton of eating, drinking and shopping options. Also loved that it has great access to the Metro and easy bus lines to all of the main tourist attractions -- which Silvia spells out for you. It is a doorman building and the doormen are also extremely helpful. If for some reason you are coming to Rio to stay inside all of the time you should know that the apartment does not get a ton of light but otherwise it has everything you could need.