We were delighted when we first arrived at the apartment. It was clean and bright with lovely bed linen. First impressions only got better as we discovered how well equipped it was: a big fridge/freezer, washing machine, blender, coffee maker, hair dryer, iron, etc. Our host had provided bottled mineral water, milk, some lovely biscuits as well as a host of cleaning materials. It really was exceptional.
It's a studio apartment so it's no surprise the kitchenette is tiny. However, it was more than adequate for our stay. We could easily have remained there for a much longer time. A couple of smaller plates would have been nice.
The apartment is right in the bustling centre of Botafogo beach. There are masses of places to eat, shop, do business, enjoy yourself right on your doorstep. The metro is a short walk away providing clean, fast and economical transport to the centre of Rio, Copacabana and all the famous tourist sites. In the short time we were there we noticed three foreign Consulates, three large business centres, an ultramodern cultural centre and library, an enormous shopping centre, endless small shops and economic supermarkets all within 5 to 10 minutes walking distance of the apartment. Brilliant!
It takes a little while getting the hang of the metro system but, once you do, you can go anywhere. Buses to every destination imaginable tear past constantly, providing an alternative to the metro if you want to stay above ground. Getting to the beach across 14 lanes of fast busy traffic is altogether another experience! You need to scout out traffic light controlled pedestrian crossings and underpasses or take your life in your hands. Great fun.
We couldn't speak more highly of the apartment and would happily go there again.