Although María is a genuine, lovely host, this apartment has the rare quality of being smaller than a typical hotel room; it’s very very tight. Additionally, the location is uphill several blocks from the cafes and stores of the neighborhood— a grocery store was a 10 minute walk. Not disastrous by any means, but not ideal. Unfortunately, the WiFi here often would disconnect or disappear completely; connecting more than one device was problematic. If you’re coming to Rio with a plan to be outside the apartment and eating in restaurants etc, the economical price point here might make it worthwhile. But best to think of this as a true crash pad, not a home away from home.