The hosts are phenomenal- if you are looking for a more authentic “parts unknown- Bourdain” type experience then these hosts will give you the best advice to have this kind of experience. They took us to samba festivals where we were the only foreigners, showed me the best way to rent a car to see beautiful beaches outside of Rio, communication was never an issue, check in was so convenient, laundry service available for 50 reals. Best part is the AIRBNB property is beautiful, amazing pool at the top, great view, clean, new, lots of common areas to relax, breakfast served every morning, filtered water available, safe secure compound and nice to meet other travelers staying there. Although it is up towards the favela, I never felt unsafe as a single male even later at night.... sometimes Uber drivers won’t take you up the hill but if you have the host talk with the Uber driver they will give them directions on how to get there otherwise it’s a short walk up the hill. I will definitely stay here next time I’m in Rio.