Marcello and his family are amazing. They are incredibly welcoming. You couldn't ask for better people to stay with. You will also fall in love with their dogs. The apartment was great for my three friends and I. The view of rio with your windows open is gorgeous. It is in a very beautiful and less touristy area of rio. I felt very safe the whole time. There is a place to get cabs a short walk down the hill to take you wherever you need to go. With plenty of great restaraunts near by. If you want to have a great trip I highly recommend Marcelo's place.