Vilma is a special person and a most gracious host, and she waited for me at the apartment until arrived, after a 4 hour delay with my flight.
The apartment is located in Lapa, which, in my opinion, is an area more suitable for the "under 40" crowd with its many bars and restaurants that cater to a younger crowd with loud bands and hours that run into the early morning. For my age group (+50), quieter areas like Botafogo and Impenema may be a better fit.
Local transportation is readily available with many cabs and buses on the streets around the apartment. And it is only a 15 minute walk to Rio's Metro system, which is very efficient and affordable
Lapa is also an older, historic community that is showing its age. Many of the buildings are in need of updates. Lapa also attracts many homeless, who sleep in the local streets.