This place is just amazing!! You can't beat the location!! 1 street back from Ipanema beach. The price for comparable apartments so close to the beach is actually really affordable. The area is very safe. After hearing many things about the security in Brazil and especially Rio, I arrived a bit scared. I soon realised in this area it is possible to walk around at night, there are many restaurants, cafes, bars, etc.
The apartment had all the main things. It could use with a few extra amenities for 'western' travellers such as a kettle, toaster and microwave. The microwave should be a priority purchase actually, I was really missing that. I had my own products with me so it wasn't a big deal but just to supply a couple of small soaps and shampoos would go a long way to give the apartment that 'special touch.
The check in process could be better, simpler for guests. This part wasn't communicated very well. Usually with airbnbs you get detailed instructions when you book or 48 hours before check in about how to check in so you don't need to worry when you arrive. I didn't get this so it was a bit scary for me after travelling from so far away because I had no idea how to enter the apartment, I just knew someone was waiting for me but I didn't know how to go about it.
Apart from these small things the host was extremely responsive, very friendly and very quick to reply. She was also very accommodating as I had to check out earlier than expected and she was flexible enough to make this happen.
With these few recommendations taken on board, this would be one of the best airbnbs in Rio!
Ps- yes the bed is new and very comfortable!