I highly recommend Hilda's apartment if you are planning a trip to Rio. I stayed with Hilda for 8 nights and I enjoyed it more with each passing day! Hilda is warm, funny, and an excellent conversationalist, not to mention that she speaks very good English. She has excellent knowledge of Rio, and Brazil, and is always willing to whip out travel tips and information when asked. She even writes directions for me in Portuguese so that I can show it to the driver. How sweet is that? Hilda prepares a scrumptious breakfast which is a little different each morning. Yummy! The apartment is always kept impeccably clean and well-maintained. I come home everyday to find the room tidied, bed-made and fresh water by my bedside. It's as good as staying in a hotel, but with more human touch. The apartment is well-served by public transport which runs frequently to/ from Copacabana/ Ipanema/ Barra, etc. If you want to see the real Rio, how people live, and not just the touristy bits, stay with Hilda. During my short stay, Hilda has become more than a landlady to me. She's fun to hang out with, and I totally enjoyed her company. Truly, finding Hilda is the best thing which happened to me in Rio!