Upon arrival there was an issue that was of no fault of Gilles. He immediately offered to move me apartments and after showing me a place in Ipanema I decided to move. Copacabana may be more well known but Ipanema has more character. I was very pleased with the new apartment and then jumped at the chance to do a favela tour with Gilles and another group. He has a great relationship with some members of the community. Had my first capirhina at a local bar run by a sweet woman (wish I could remember her name). Got a chance to tour Santa Teresa with Gilles and friends and again had a great time. Gilles says he wants his guests to feel like family and I certainly did. Thank-you for the great hospitality.