Our experience at Gricel's apartment in Humaitá was as good as it gets. After a long flight from Lisbon to Rio, and as tired as we were, arriving at Gricel's apartment was refreshing. The check in process was very easy: Gricel was waiting for us in the apartment. She showed us the room and all the different common spaces in the house -- beautifully decorated. She had even got some juice and fruits for us! She told us about the neighborhood and different places to go.

The house is strategically located in Humaitá, very near the main streets that cross this Carioca neighborhood, but yet in a very quiet and charming side street. It is conveniently situated near the Cobal do Humaitá: an old market that now also hosts restaurants and bars, and at a walking distance from the Lagoa. There are several bus lines near the apartment that take you to the Jardim Botánico, Botafogo, Copacabana, and Ipanema. Perfect place to get to know the city but at a safe distance from all the touristic areas, so that you get to experience life as a local.

Our stay at Gricel's apartment was during the beginning of a much longer stay in Rio; Gricel was extremely nice and told us about the different areas and gave us some advice. She was in touch with us before and during the stay, always willing to help.

I will be recommending Gricel's apartment to all friends and family that visit Rio in the future!