This was a fun, friendly family experience. Staying at Carlos' place in Rio was better than I expected. His house was immaculate, the room was spacious and had a great view of Christ the Redeemer statue and it was close and convenient. I went to Brazil with my husband for the New Year's Eve festivities and it was right after a death in the family. Being in Rio itself was great healing... being at Carlos' place extended the nurturing. Carlos has an amazing kitchen, with tons of modern day appliances and I didn't want to eat restaurant and hotel style for two weeks in Brazil so it was great. Also, I am a vegan and my husband is a vegetarian so we wanted to cook our own food. There were a couple of great supermarkets nearby so we did that, and Carlos and his family made meals for us as well. We even had a party! Carlos invited some of his artsy English Speaking friends over for a night of music and outdoor cooking. It was spectacular. As far as logistics, his internet connection was very strong, and was available 95% of the time, even when streaming movies (hint, Netflix in Brazil is AWESOME) and we never had an issue with clean towels, bedding, dishes and such. Though we didn't use it, he has a washer/dryer and plenty of parking space. He has a dog, who lives outside, and was very friendly. There are many buses just a block away that take you all over Rio, and because he house is directly across the street from the train to Corcovado there are always taxis. I loved my stay and will be returning again and will book to stay with Carlos again. He, his mom, girlfriend and kids are now like family.