If you are coming to Rio, I highly recommend Bianca's apartment in Leblon, which is one , if not the best, neighborhood in Rio. The apartment is located in front of Shopping Leblon, one of the most exclusive shopping malls in Rio. Leblon beach is five minutes away and right on the border of Ipanema beach. Hence you can easily walk (about 10 minutes) to Ipanema. Copacabana is right next to Ipanema. Also, the apartment is very close to the metro station, so you can easily hop on the metro and go other neighborhoods in the city, such as Botafogo, Flamengo and Downtown. I also recommend you explore the restaurants in the streets close to the apartment. To experience Rio at its best, go to one of the many "botecos" (traditional bars who also sell food) located close to the apartment. I personally went to a few and the atmosphere was pure Rio and the food was great.
The host Bianca was very polite and responsive to every question I had. She was a very attentive host.