My stay at Bindu was really great. Whenever I have been to Rio, I stay in Santa Teresa, but this was my first time at Casa Maravilha - which I strongly recommend. If you are the kind of person who wants to enjoy all the attractions of Rio but at the same time wish getting a little sheltered from the crowd of tourists (Copacabana) and from the somewhat artificial and snobbish atmosphere of the south zone (Leblon, for example), this is definitely the place.
Rio is not the better case for public transportation - but it is not difficult getting any place from Santa Teresa using buses. You will be on the hill, so sometimes taxis/uber is a good and cheap option. It is good to know, anyway, that at the neighborhood, just some steps from the house, you will find some of the most charming restaurants and bars in Rio.
The loft, where I stayed, is separated from the house, surrounded a wonderful tropical garden. It is quiet, with a comfortable bed and everything is always very clean. Un petit paradis.
Bindu and his family are kind and am sure that if you need any kind of information about the city they will be ready to help you.
And for someone who are still worry about the safety, I could say: don't worry - santa teresa is really calm, an special place.
Bindu, thank you very much for the welcome.