This is our first booking with AirBnB and I was a little anxious, that everything would be ok, as we had 10 nights at this apartment during Carnival time. I didn't need to worry. A week prior I sent Pierre a message with our flights and requested Alex his Taxi driver to collect us. We got off the plane late at night and with much relief Alex was there to greet us holding up our name on a sign. He was friendly and kind and drove us to the apartment. Depending on traffic this was around 45 minutes away. We had a good run late at night. As Alex works with Pierre and the caretaker Rose, Alex drove into the security gates into the car park and unloaded our luggage. This meant we were not dropped in the street late at night. Recommend booking Alex. Rose was there waiting as Alex had called her when he left the airport. Rose took us to the apartment & went through everything. Although late I even took a walk to the beach it is so close. Rose lives close and is available for anything, although we didn't need to see her until the day we left. The apartment was as depicted in the photos just as I expected. Very clean and well equipped with linen, and kitchen items. Best thing about this apartment is the location. Although you will see from a map the street adjoins the bottom of the Favela (slum area) don't be concerned. A police car sits in the street pretty much all the time. Everyone will warn you to watch your belongings don't wear jewellery etc.. and I went with some fear of being robbed. But very soon I felt safe. Our group didn't show off any valuables and were vigilant, but no different in any major city. What I loved about Rio was the people, the most friendly and welcoming people.
This apartment is in the best location. Two minute walk out the door and you are at restaurants and supermarket. 5 Minute walk to beach. Impanima is also very close about 10 minute walk. We caught a taxi one time (it was hot) to the Girl From Impanima restaurant and cost 10 Real . Fort Copacabana is a nice walk with nice restaurants. The large shopping Centre Rio Sul is also close around $15 - $20 Real by Taxi. The clothes and shoes in Brazil are amazing. Also after some time found out that at the buffet restaurants they weigh the food. Great for a group as can cater for everyone and you pay for what you eat. Great idea. We used Taxi as 4 of us, so good value but buses galore also on door step and metro also close although we didn't use it. We didn't meet Pierre this time, but hope to return again as still so much to see. Carnival was amazing. ! Thank you Rio for some great memories.