We spent 5 days in Rio around Christmas 2012 and absolutely loved it. The apartment is really nice. Not huge but really functional. AC works well. Very well located near metro Cardeal Arcoverde, and lots of buses, which connects well to major attractions and neighborhoods. For those concerned with security no worries, the area is secure and residential but has life on the street even late in the evening. Walked many times from the metro well past 11 without feeling uncomfortable at all. There are also a few convenience stores for items for breakfast, water a pharmacy and quite a few restaurants. BTW, try café Fiducia (address is Rua Duvivier, n0. 12) right in front of the restaurant (more upscale) with the same name. Great little bistro 3 min from the apartment with light snacks, great meals and very decent wine. And among all the craziness of Rio Prices, this apartment is priced right and a good value for what you get. And a King Bed (quite firm and comfortable), which is really rare in Brazil where double beds (not even Queen) seem to be the norm.