Jaline was the perfect hostess: warm, welcoming, helpful and knowledgeable about Rio, she was keen to ensure we got the most from our visit.
Her charming, compact flat - with 24-hour doorman in reception - while close to a main road, has views of the wide sweep of Botafogo Bay. From its sunny balcony you can see Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Mountain.
Botafogo, a bustling, up-and-coming neighbourhood with cafes, delicatessen and market, also had a convenient Metro station.