We had a great time staying at Tania's, who was absent but her sister, Lea looked after us well. Lea prepared us fantastic traditional Brazilian meals daily and she is a great cook. She also kept the place immaculate. Lea is very lively and vibrant, never a dull moment. Her neighbours were lovely and very helpful, one of them could speak English which helped break the communication barrier (along with translate on my iphone). We found Vila Isabel to be quite safe walking home from Maracana Metro train station late at night (mind you the Olympic Games was on and security was beefed up). There is a shopping mall (Vila Isabel Shopping) about 10 to 15 minutes walk from home with cash machines. If you arrive at the International Airport it's best to order a taxi inside by the booth on the left hand side of the exit door for around R$55. When you arrive at the property there is an intercom for you to contact Lea / Tania, to let you in. Thanks Lea we had a wonderful time and enjoyed your company very much. Walter & Debbie (New Zealand).