My health was not 100% when I arrived in Barra da Tijuca, but Patricia was very understanding and accomodating. We had some great conversations as she has a lot of knowedlge of Brazil and in particular Rio, as she is a true Carioca with an abundance of energy. The area seems quite safe and was a welcome change to the pace of Copacabana and cenral Rio.
I only wish I had some more time to really explore the area!