The People: If this was a review of how nice and accommodating Jose and his staff were (Luis and Ramon), this review would get an easy 5 out of 5! We had a light go out, and they fixed it the next day. Jose arranged to have us picked up and dropped off from the airport. Jose and Ramon speak very good english and were able to tell us lots of great things to do and see while in Rio. Nicest people you will ever meet!

The Location: As far as the apartment is concerned, it has superior location. Right next to the supermarket, two blocks from the beach, in the heart of shopping/restaurants. You cannot ask for a better location.

The Safety: Safety to the apartment and in the area generally is not in question. We were concerned primarily of safety before arriving, and I never sensed a problem in and around the apartment. That being said, we still took cabs everywhere we went; especially at night.

Apartment Amenities: This is the only section of the review that we cannot rave about. The apartment is, for the most part, as described. It has great wireless internet, and everything appears as depicted. AC works great too. The shower is definitely finicky; the heat will shut off randomly throughout showers leaving you with cold water. If the water turns cold, the trick is to turn off the water completely and then hot water will start up again (for how long though you do not know). The apartment only has a washer (no dryer), so you must hang dry all of your clothes. The sheets were a little dirty, and my friend got bug bites on his body from the bedding (he did not realize until we left). There were also ants in the apartment. We weren't sure if this is typical in Rio or what, but do not leave any food out for more than 2minutes!!

The few bad things aside, I cannot give Jose anything less than 4-stars and I would stay here again no question (maybe not my friend though). The few problems we had I am sure Jose will take care of immediately. He carries himself in a professional manner and does a great job. We had a wonderful time in Rio! Obrigado Jose!