I definitely recommend staying at Marcias beautiful flat in the heart of local area Leme.
To start, Marcia was very responsive in providing information and coordinating our arrival. We took a cab from the airport and met her at the apartment where she was waiting for us. She provided us with all information necessary. The flat is in the sixth floor (with elevator) with direct ocean view (between two houses). The building has a doorman which is great for safety. The area has a local vibe compared to the tourist crazyness a few blocks down in the heart of copacabana. There is a super market right across the street and many good restaurants around. The apartment is a one bedroom studio, neat and clean and well equipped for a short stay. The highlight is the hammock on the little "balcony". The apartment is rather small, so opening two suitcases takes almost all space. The location is perfect for exploring the city since its at a good location between the beach area (copacabana and leblon) and the city center (to pao de azucar, cristo retendor, lapa etc). Also during our stay Marcia was available for questions at all times.