If you like staying in a well thought out flat in a great neighborhood with wonderful small, family run restaurants, then Lapa is perfect for you. Although you do want to keep in mind that this location is about a mile from center city, and, very, very hilly, it is worth it. Joao and Sandra have created a lovely place to stay. It is accurately described in the listing and looks just like the photos. Spotlessly clean, very comfortable and quiet, we thoroughly enjoyed it. Joao left us a beautiful table setting of goodies that we so enjoyed and appreciated. He is an incredible host, very thoughtful, full of good information and leaves you a binder filled with appropriate details to help out during your stay. LOVED IT. The neighborhood is a bit worn down like many cities, but seeing the locals go about there day is quite fun. We met a couple of the neighbors and they were so nice. Very small "bar" on first floor where locals go for coffee and a beer on a daily basis which can be quite entertaining. They close very early. This flat is in an older building, no elevator or washer and dryer, and a bit worn around the edges, but we like older buildings that have character, not the shiny, glitzy big name hotels. We loved our stay here and would highly recommend.