Rafael's flat is, in a word, superb! I can't say enough good things about it: truly amazing location (Ipanema beach is your backyard!), quiet, sunny, thoughtfully decorated, and has everything you need. Rafael lives in the building, which was extremely nice to know (not least as a solo female traveling in Rio) and always responded very quickly. I definitely hope to return again -- for even longer -- and enthusiastically recommend this gem of a place to others!