My friend Carol and I stayed at Alan and Catherine's lovely studio flat in Copacabana for 8 nights at the end of the 2014 World Cup. The arrangement worked out perfectly - from the first moment of contact the hosts were so helpful; knowing that the two of us coming were friends they adapted the studio to our needs, putting in a spare single bed and adjusting the space accordingly so that we would be comfortable. We were given so much help and advice on everything ranging from places to eat in Rio, which banks to use, best ways of travelling around, recommended ways of getting to Sao Paolo where we went to watch a semi-final match overnight, etc.
Once there we really enjoyed our stay - it is a studio flat but the space has been put to such good use that we never felt cramped or on top of each other. The welcome pack when we arrived was just that - very welcoming! We loved Copacabana itself; it felt very safe, and there are so many places to go to all within a short distance; the biggest problem we had was being selective! Alan and Catherine's guide is extremely helpful and the fact that there was wifi at the flat almost meant that we could book online for trips like the visit to el Cristo Corcovado (which saved us a long queue and several hours of waiting.) We also appreciated the fact that Alan kept in touch whilst we were there to ask if we needed help with anything, etc.
So all in all it was a very positive experience and I would highly recommend the apartment, whether you are travelling on your own, as part of a couple or with a friend, as it can be adapted to suit your needs! Thank you very much Alan and Catherine - I for one hope to return!