I stayed at Livia's for a recent 8 day trip to Rio and had a wonderful experience; Livia and her local proxy Cristina make exceptional hosts. Livia checked in every few days before and during the the trip to make sure that I felt comfortable with the arrangements, and along the way provided indispensable travel tips both in real-time message and along in the detailed manual she leaves for her guests. Cristina and her wonderful dogs gave me a warm welcome from the airport (including a delicious honey cake), helped me to navigate the local transportation, and loaned me a hammer to crack open a cupuacu (FYI, best left to juice professionals it turns out, but try the juice). The doormen provided me a sense of security upon entry and we developed a nice relationship either in spite of, or because of, my first grade level Portuguese language skills. The apartment was exactly as described, and I would recommend it and gladly stay there again; perhaps some day I will have the opportunity.