If you’re a discerning global traveler, who likes your Airbnb to be stylish, modern, spotlessly clean, and equipped with a comfortable bedding, this is not the place for you.
Luca's place is very well located in Ipanema, just blocks from the beach, and it has a lovely terrace, full of plants (you can see the sea, if you walk to the end of the balcony and crane your neck). But, unfortunately, the apartment lacks basic amenities.
I was very surprised to arrive and to discover there there were no sheets on the bed and no pillow cases (just a mattress cover, a shoddy thin duvet cover and a tired looking blanket). I ended up getting sheets from local friends, a hassle while on vacation. I didn't sleep well during most of my stay, and I didn't feel at home in the space.
Luca said that a previous tenant had ruined the sheets, and he hadn't had time to replace them. He should’ve bought new sheets before renting it out.
The kitchen is full of dishes and pots and pans but everything was old and unappetising, and not properly cleaned. There was one wine glass. And the pots and pans all had burn marks. The dishes were desperately in need of a deep clean. When I asked Luca why there was only one wine glass , he was apologetic and explained that a previous tenant had broken the glasses. It would've been more helpful if he had just replaced them.
The other issue with this apartment is that there is a loft over the sofa, and this makes it very claustrophobic to lounge there. I knew this going in, but it is worth noting if you are the type who likes to lounge on a couch, in an open airy space.
The outdoor terrace is great and I really enjoyed relaxing there. Lots of lovely plants, The doormen were also excellent -- kind and helpful. But it‘s not enough to offset the apartment’s other deficiencies.
Given the premium price, I expected this apartment to be better-fitted and to have nice basics, like sheets. The apartment, which has a kitschy surfer dude aesthetic, might be a good match for students, who just want a place close to the beach — it’s not a good match for a seasoned traveler who wants relaxation in a lovely inviting space.
Luca seems like a decent guy who will hopefully address these issues.
As for me, next time in Rio, I will opt for a nice hotel!