Our stay with Marcia was great. She is a most gracious and helpful host, was there to greet and orient us to the apartment fully. Though she lives across the city, was available by phone/text whenever we needed her. She kept in touch with us to make sure things were ok, no problems with the apartment- every couple days. The apartment was clean and neat, and met our needs fully with plenty of towels, kitchen supplies, etc. to make our stay easy. The location was ideal, right between Copacabana and Ipanema beach, walking distance to either. She helped us with quite a few tourist questions and suggestions, and helpful maps and tour books in the apartment for our use. My sister and I would highly recommend her place to anyone considering a trip to Rio, a city we thoroughly enjoyed- although you do have to be aware of your surroundings at all times and closely guard your valuables, and be a little judicious about the areas of the city you visit, especially at night.