We spent 10 wonderful days at this apartment. Jose and Luis were fabulous hosts. Luis personally met us both when we arrived and when we left, and was quick to respond when we needed him for anything. The location is fabulous--just one block from Ipanema beach! The Metro stop was only 3 blocks away (useful hint--65+ ride free on the metro, just show your drivers license to the attendant. Some museums also, as well as discounted tickets to Sugar Loaf Mountain.) The neighborhood is filled with restaurants, stores, and grocery stores. While Ipanema beach is the safest in the area, you still have to be very careful. There are various stands on the beach to get beach umbrellas and chairs, but we found one of the stands at the end of the street to be extra special. "Sonia and Familia 57 was a gem. $5 for 2 chairs and an umbrella, and they will hold your bag with items safely at their stand, so you can use your cell phone for pictures, etc then go put it back safely in the bag while you walk the beach and swim. They also patrol the beach all around their customers making sure everyone is safe. I once went into the ocean for awhile and left my sunglasses on the beach chair. When I came back, "mama" had those glasses in her hands, keeping them safe. All of this wonderful caring is FREE! They also have great beers and drinks. We definitely would stay here again and highly recommend the lovely apartment and caring people!