We just spent 8 wonderful nights in Rio at Felipe's apartment. The place was very spacious and clean, and looks exactly like the pictures. It is appointed with every basic necessity plus lots more, like good music, books, tourist information, internet and bikes. 2 minutes to the fabulous Ipanema beach, and walk 10 minutes and you're in Copacabana. A wide variety of restaurants and shops are on the doorstep and it's a 2 minute walk to the bus stop and metro station. The area felt safe ad the apartment was quiet, even though it's in the heart of so much activity. Felipe was a perfect host, answering all my questions promptly; and once we were there and he knew what kinds of interests we had, he provided multiple suggestions for activities happening everywhere in the city... things we would never have known about otherwise. Staying here with Felipe as our host gave us the opportunity to experience the best of Rio! Highly recommended!