If you ever go to Rio de Janeiro, I would highly recommend Valerie's place. It is a beautiful room, with the quiet terrace, you are about one block from the beach, and have a supermarket right in front. It does not get better than that.
Valerie was fantastic, she had fruits and water ready for me, it made my arrival so much easier. She took the time to explain the basics, and it was extremly helpful.
When I come back, I will definitely choose this apartment again.