My daughter (25) will be taking classes in the Centro neighborhood of Rio for 6 weeks this summer. Looking for advice on the best (safest) neighborhood within a reasonable commute for housing. Thank you.

Hello, Hoyas. While in Rio, we were fortunate to meet a great guide whose name is Rafael Torres. He's a fabulous person and like most Cariocas, very friendly and helpful. Why don't you get in touch with him and ask for suggestions. His e-mail is: [email protected]. Tell him Teresa from San Diego gave you his name and references. Best of luck. What a great opportunity for your daughter to spend 6 weeks in Rio.

I'll vouch for Rafa too!

My opinion would be to stay in Ipanema or Copacabana and take the metro into centro daily

I would also ask the school about housing. They may have special arrangements for students.