I stayed with the host for 2 weeks before and during the Olympic Games and my experience was excellent! It was my first time using AirBnB and I was a bit apprehensive. However everything about my stay was better than I expected. The location is excellent, just about 8 blocks from the Copacabana Beach on a quiet residential street, 6 blocks from the Subway station. Several small restaurants/coffee shops and grocery shops within 6 blocks. Nice building with friendly 24 hour security guard. Very spacious 3 bedroom/2 bathroom condo extremely well maintained with all amenities, very clean. My private room was big (~16m) with big window, enough closet space, a/c, TV set and a CD player. Very good bed. Beatriz, who is the actual owner of the place was very welcoming. On my first day she showed me the neighborhood. Throughout my stay Beatriz was very friendly and helpful and although she does not speak English and I don't know a word of Portuguese, we were always able to communicate about important things.
Overall, I felt very welcome, comfortable and cared for. Will definitely stay there if I ever go back to Rio, highly recommended.
Thank you Beatriz!
Georgi