We really enjoyed our stay with Elen. Nice area with a very local presence and still within reach of the good beaches in no time. We even met with Elen's sister! Try the juice bar around the corner and the Pao de Queso. Area good for shopping books and shoes. And havaianas ...only 15 reals. In Europe ... only 100 Reals! Also easy for Sugarloaf and Christo Redento. Wish you all the best and hope to see you soon again.